TADS Orthodontics

Sometimes braces and similar appliances are not enough to get the teeth in the positions they need to be. Because our dental structure follows the laws of physics, meaning equal and opposite reactions occur due to forces we cause, the teeth sometimes move in directions we do not want them to go. In these cases, we bring in additional devices for help.

TADs are a tool used in dentistry to help move the teeth. TAD stands for Temporary Anchorage Devices. These devices act as anchors that keep certain teeth in place, unable to be moved by the braces or other appliances. Our TADs expert in San Francisco plants the device into nearby bone and attaches it to the necessary teeth.

Orthodontics supplemented by TADs is able to:

·         Reduce orthodontic treatment time by one third

·         Eliminate the need for a headgear

·         Provide a more ideal finish

·         Allow for significant skeletal changes during growth modification procedures

·         Allow limited tooth movement in preparation for a bridge, crown or implant without braces

·         Close most open bites without surgery

·         Eliminate the need for rubber bands

TADs are not necessary for all patients, and will not be effective for some. Patients with anchorage issues who are however not candidates for TADs may need oral structural surgery instead. Talk to our San Francisco dentist regarding whether this device will be necessary for your treatment.

Right Candidates for Veneers

Aesthetic imperfections can take a lot away from your smile. Chips, worn enamel, discolored spots, gaps and other flaws can make you feel self-conscious or unhappy about the way your smile looks. We offer treatments that can give you the radiant smile you deserve. Porcelain veneers are one popular option that can cover most cosmetic problems.

A porcelain veneer conceals the front surface of the tooth without replacing the tooth or requiring extensive preparation. They are fully customized to fit the shape, size and color of your smile, and you can make any necessary adjustments for the most flattering look possible. The porcelain has a look similar to natural enamel and resists staining, which means they can last for many years.

You may be a candidate for veneers if you have healthy teeth and gums, want to conceal a cosmetic problem, have fully grown teeth and want a permanent solution. Some of the issues that can be solved with veneers include:

•    Chips and cracks
•    Stains and discolorations
•    Crooked and uneven teeth
•    Eroded enamel
•    Gaps
•    Misshapen teeth

Call us today to learn more about how veneers can change your smile or to schedule your appointment.

What is the Difference Between Inlays/Onlays and Regular Fillings?

In the past, patients who needed a dental filling had very limited options. Fillings were created in the tooth and came in only gold and silver amalgam. Modern day dentistry now offers new technology that provides experts and patients several different options when it comes to restoring the teeth. Regular dental fillings (using better and more discreet material) are still used, as well as what are called indirect fillings.

There are two types of indirect fillings – inlays and onlays. They differ from regular dental fillings in one main way. While regular (or direct) fillings are created in the mouth on the tooth in question, inlays and onlays are created outside of the mouth and placed in or on the tooth afterwards.

This is made possible with the use of CAD/CAM technology. Our Orange County dentist takes an image of your tooth or teeth, which is then turned into a 3D image and sent to a machine located right in our office. This milling machine uses the material chosen to create your restoration. Onlays are used for cavities that are just on the cusp, or outer layer, of the tooth, while inlays are for those that reach deeper.

Most Effective Orthodontic Treatments

Many orthodontic treatments are available today. The two most common types are braces and clear aligners. Both are extremely effective at moving teeth to their ideal positions and promoting proper oral function. Our cosmetic dentist or orthodontist can help you find the most effective orthodontic treatment for your needs.

Braces are typically recommended for patients with complex malocclusions and orthodontic problems. Braces use brackets, bands, and wires to move teeth with regular adjustments. You may be a candidate for braces if you have severe or complex bite problems. Several types of braces are available, including traditional, ceramic, and lingual. You may have the option of choosing the one that is best for you.

Clear aligners used for Invisalign are another option. These aligners look similar to a mouth guard, but they are designed to fit close to your teeth to apply the appropriate amount of pressure. Invisalign is an excellent option for teens and adults who are concerned about aesthetics and for those with mild-to-moderate orthodontic problems.

No two patients have the same needs, and different orthodontic treatments offer different benefits. Call our office today to learn more about the most effective treatment for you, or to schedule your consultation with our expert in orthodontics in Los Angeles.

Who Can Get Dental Implants?

While dental bridges, partial dentures, and full dentures are all viable options for replacing missing teeth, dental implants are the restorations preferred by both experts and patients. This is due to several factors. Implants are very stable, meaning they will not slip when eating or speaking. They also work to reverse the negative effects of tooth loss, such as resorbed jaw bone tissue and altered facial structure.

Despite their overwhelming benefits, dental implants are not perfect for everyone. The best candidates for dental implants are those who:

•    Have otherwise prefect oral and overall health
•    Have sufficient jaw bone density
•    Or are willing and able to undergo a bone grafting to create sufficient jaw bone density
•    Are able to endure a lengthy healing process

Pre-existing oral health issues, such as gum disease, will need to be addressed prior to a restorative procedure such as this one. Your implants dentist will inform you about the length of the healing process, which typically lasts about nine months. A temporary crown will be placed during this time in order to create the appearance of a full and healthy tooth. Those who are not able to endure this process, or simply do not wish to, may be candidates for Subperiosteal implants, which are inserted into the gums, but not the jaw bone.

Clear Braces and How They Work

Clear braces are the popular orthodontic appliance of today. Only a few years ago, patients had no choice but traditional metal braces, which were bulky, uncomfortable, and highly noticeable. Invisalign offers a discreet option for many patients needing straighter, properly aligned teeth.

Metal braces use brackets and wires to pull the teeth into their correct spots. Invisalign, with its mouth guard-like aligners, push the teeth into place, instead. Experts have determined that the orthodontic process must be a slow one, which is the only way the teeth can be moved properly.

Invisalign patients receive several aligners at a time. They each add slight but consistent pressure to the teeth for about two weeks at a time, before they are allowed to move on to the next. While patients enjoy the fact that they are removable, making it easier to eat, drink, and play sports, aligners must be worn for at least twenty hours a day to achieve the full effect.

Orthodontic patients are typically candidates for clear braces if their smile features mild to moderate cases of crooked teeth, gaps, and crowding, as well as minor bite issues. Talk to our dentist in San Francisco today to see how they can transform your smile.

Are Veneers the Best Option for Me?

Veneers can be a great option for a lot of people who are unhappy with their smiles. They fit right over your natural teeth with minimal preparation, and cover up many different flaws ranging from stains and worn enamel to chips, cracks, and gaps. Are veneers the best option for you?

You might be a candidate for veneers if you have:

•    Chipped, cracked, or broken teeth
•    Yellow, stained, or discolored teeth
•    Crooked or uneven teeth
•    Ridged, jagged, or misshapen teeth
•    Worn teeth
•    Gapped teeth

For the best results, your teeth and gums should be healthy and free of any untreated dental disease. You might not be a candidate for veneers if you have severely eroded enamel or severe bruxism.

To find out if veneers are the right choice for you, you will need to schedule an exam. We will evaluate your smile and learn more about your goals and preferences. We will then create a treatment plan just for you that will address your specific issues. This may include veneers, which can be placed in as few as two to three dental visits. Are you ready to change your smile? We are ready to help. Call our porcelain veneers dentist in Los Angeles today to find out more and schedule your appointment.

Can you Remove Veneers from Your Teeth?

Veneers are a type of permanent cosmetic restoration that covers teeth to improve the look of many aesthetic flaws. Once you begin to wear veneers, you will need to keep wearing veneers. They are designed to last for many years and can often stay in place for 10 to 15 years or more without the need for repair or replacement.

If you remove veneers from your teeth, they will need to be replaced. This is because the preparation process requires some of the enamel to be removed from your teeth. Although today’s veneers are extremely thin and the enamel removed is minimal, it is still enough to affect the function and appearance of your teeth. Those who do not want a permanent restoration should consider other options. No-prep veneers, or veneers that do not require enamel removal, might be one option.

You should never try to remove veneers on your own. If your veneer becomes chipped or otherwise damaged, let us know as soon as possible. A damaged veneer can allow bacteria to leak and decay the tooth.

Call our office today to learn more or to schedule your appointment with our expert in porcelain veneers in Beverly Hills, CA.

How Much Does Snap On Smile Cost?

Just like any other dental procedure, the cost of Snap OnSmile varies from city to city, and sometimes from dentist to dentist. You can expect to pay more in the largest cities like New York and Los Angeles, which are also the beauty capitals. There is more pressure to be attractive in these areas, and if you feel insecure about your smile but do not have the time or resources for extensive dental work, you may benefit from Snap On Smile.

 With this custom-fit appliance, you can pick your smile in consultation with a specialist. Snap On Smile is especially meant for those patients who want to upgrade their smile in a hurry, usually for an upcoming life event like a wedding or class reunion. If time is less of a factor than money, you will be pleased to know that Snap On Smile is one of the least expensive cosmetic remedies. Typically, it is priced per arch, and you may only need one arch depending on where your trouble spots are.

You may mitigate the cost with financing or a payment plan, so ask your dentist if you qualify. To schedule a consult with our expert in Snap On Smile in Los Angeles, call today. 

When are Dental Crowns the Best Option?

Dental crowns are different from most other restorations in that they cover all sides of teeth. Depending on their purpose, cosmetic or restorative, crowns may be the top choice for the best results. Here are some examples of these situations.

When Damage Covers Multiple Sides

If a tooth has damage on multiple sides, a crown offers total coverage in a single treatment. This can be desirable whether the damage is functional or only cosmetic.

When Stains Are Very Heavy

Most stains can be bleached away, and many that cannot can be hidden with veneers. In some cases, however, discoloration is so severe that crowns are the only way to achieve complete concealment.

When Too Much Damage Is Involved

Our Northridge dentist may repair tooth damage with a variety of restorations, including fillings, inlays, and onlays. Because these restorations require ample tooth structure for support, crowns can become preferable when little tooth structure is left.

Crowns are a versatile choice for treating many dental problems. With their thickness and total tooth coverage, they are often a better option than alternatives when a tooth is broadly or deeply affected by structural or cosmetic damage. At a consultation with our expert in porcelain crowns in Northridge, patients can find out more about the top uses of this treatment.

Basics about Dental Implants

Dental implants are the tooth replacement method preferred by both experts and patients alike. This is for several reasons, all of which are important to know if you have a gap in your smile due to a knocked-out or extracted tooth.

Dental implants are comprised of two or three different pieces. The main component, the post, is made out of titanium. This element is used because it is very compatible with the human system. It can be inserted into the jawbone permanently without causing infection. This post is then capped with a connecting piece called an abutment, and a dental crown.

Possibly the most impressive of all the dental implants facts is that they not only stop the negative effects of tooth loss, but reverse them. For example, when even just one tooth is missing, the underlying bone tissue is no longer stimulated by bite forces, and therefore begins to diminish quickly. This can result in an altered facial structure. Dental implants connect with the bone tissue in a way that provides stimulation again, and even work to rebuild tissue.

Our dental implants dentist in Los Angeles can talk to you further about the benefits of the restoration.

Types of Dental Fillings and How to Choose Them

Dental fillings are an essential and versatile restoration. They are often used to fill cavities, but can also be used to repair damaged teeth. If you need a dental filling, our Huntington Beach cosmetic dentist can explain your options and help you make the best decision for your smile.



Common types of dental fillings include:



1. Composite resin fillings

These fillings are made to look just like the natural tooth. They are strong and durable, and they can be used on teeth both the front and the back of the mouth. If aesthetics are a big concern for you, composite resin fillings can be a great option.



2. Amalgam fillings

Also known as silver fillings, these fillings are long-lasting and fairly inexpensive, but they are noticeable once they have been placed. Amalgam fillings can be a good choice for those who want a budget-friendly solution, but they may not be ideal for patients who are concerned about the look of their smiles.



3. Porcelain inlays and onlays

A tooth that is badly damaged may need more than a composite resin or amalgam filling. Porcelain inlays and onlays work similarly to dental crowns, but require less preparation. Inlays and onlays can be a good choice for patients with severely decayed teeth who want an aesthetically pleasing solution.


Call our expert in dental fillings in Huntington Beach today to schedule your next appointment.

What are the Treatment Options for Gum Inflammation?

Inflamed gums can be seriously uncomfortable. Gums become inflamed as a result of irritation from plaque, dental appliances, hormones, or other issues. Inflammation can also be an early sign of gum disease. Treating gum inflammation promptly can help reduce more serious problems and restore comfort. Our periodontists can help you find the best treatment for your needs.

One of the first things you will need to do is to evaluate your dental hygiene routine. Brushing carefully using a soft toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste is a great way to clean your teeth without further irritating your gums. You also need to clean between your teeth by flossing gently or using an interdental cleaner. Use an antiseptic mouthwash to rinse and flush away bacteria.

Addressing the underlying cause of the inflammation is also vital. The proper treatment can vary based on the cause. If gum disease is to blame, we may recommend a proactive treatment strategy to bring the infection under control and reduce the risk of long-term damage. Call our office today to schedule your appointment with our expert in gum inflammation treatment in Los Angeles and create your treatment plan.

Are Braces Covered by Insurance?

The cost of braces in Los Angeles can be expensive for some patients, and this can raise questions about insurance covering part or all of the cost. Insurance policies vary widely. If you have dental insurance, you will need to check the specifics of your plan to determine your individual coverage.

Dental insurance typically covers the cost of orthodontics for children under the age of eighteen who need them for medical rather than cosmetic purposes. Insurance does not necessarily cover the cost of braces for children or adults who want or need braces for cosmetic purposes, and it may not always cover treatment for adults who need braces for medical purposes.

Even if your current plan does not offer orthodontic coverage, supplemental plans are available. These plans can cover the cost of orthodontic treatment, dental exams associated with treatment, retainers, and other costs associated with braces. Financing options are also available for qualified patients and can allow you to spread the cost of braces over several months or the course of treatment. Call our office today to learn more about covering the cost of braces or to schedule your consultation with our Los Angeles orthodontist.

Use of Fixed Bridges for Replacing Teeth

A fixed dental bridge is a type of partial denture that is permanently fixed in the mouth. They can be beneficial for patients who are missing just one tooth, or a few teeth in a row. Bridges are made using dental porcelain, which closely replicates the natural look and function of teeth. Dental bridges are highly effective at replacing teeth. Our dentist in Torrance can help you decide if a fixed bridge is the right choice for you.

Several options are available for replacing lost teeth, so the first step will be to schedule a consultation. We will examine your teeth and explain each of your options. Bridges are most effective in patients who have healthy teeth or implants to support the bridge. Next, we will prepare the abutment teeth and take impressions, which will be used to design and make your new restoration.

Once your bridge is bonded to your abutments, it will help keep your teeth properly spaced and positioned, and evenly distribute your bite forces. Your smile will be restored, and the porcelain teeth and crowns will be impossible to distinguish from your other teeth.

Taking care of your new bridge is essential to ensuring a long lifespan. Brush your bridge along with your teeth at least twice a day using non-abrasive fluoride toothpaste. You can floss around the bridge daily using floss threaders or floss made specifically for those with this restoration. Call our expert in dental bridges in Torrance to learn more or to schedule an appointment with our team.

TMJ and Stress

TMJ remains highly neurological, which is part of its mystery. Stress as a contributing factor to TMJ remains to be studied. But a high correlation exists between symptoms of anxiety that are caused by stress, and symptoms of TMJ.

If you ask for a TMJ consult, one of the first questions our doctor will ask is about your stress levels. Did you recently go through a life event or change, like a breakup or job loss? Did you assume more responsibility at work? Stress can manifest in physiologic signals, such as joint pain and neck stiffness. Our expert in treatment of TMJ pain in Los Angeles can coach you in stress relief, such as ergonomic exercises and ways to improve your posture if you sit for long periods.

One problem is that experts cannot say for sure how much of your TMJ comes from stress, and how much of your stress comes from TMJ. Things like morning headaches and dizziness can originate in TMJ dysfunction, largely because of nerves and blood vessels wired through the jaw. These can disorient the body and raise anxiety levels, further exacerbating the TMJ.

If you feel confusion about your TMJ dilemma, ask for a consult today.

When is Emergency Dental Surgery the Only Option?

Dental accidents and emergencies can lead to pain and distress, and without prompt care, they can also lead to the loss of a tooth. Although the goal of our emergency dentists is typically to save the tooth whenever possible, emergency dental surgery is sometimes the only option.

You may need emergency dental surgery if you have:

1.       A severely infected tooth

An abscessed or infected tooth can lead to serious complications. The best treatment for this situation will likely be a root canal procedure, but if the tooth cannot be restored, you may need a dental extraction instead.

2.       An extremely damaged tooth

Teeth that are severely damaged may be able to be saved with a root canal and a dental crown, but if they are broken down to the gum line or the roots are cracked, an extraction might be the better option.

Other types of dental problems could also necessitate emergency dental surgery. At your appointment, our team will assess your dental health and recommend the best treatment strategy for your needs. If an extraction or another dental surgery is needed, we will ensure your comfort throughout the process. Call our office today to learn more or to schedule your appointment with our emergency dental surgeon in LA.