Advantages of Dental Implants

Lost teeth can be detrimental to your health. Many people, because of dental anxiety or out-of-pocket expense, decide not to replace missing teeth. This can redistribute bite forces unequally in the mouth. And nearby teeth can start to grow toward any absence.  

Dental implants restore order by replacing teeth naturally. You don’t have to rely just on outside prosthetics anymore. Dentures and fixed bridges are still useful, but do not replicate the roles of real teeth like implants. This is partly about fit—the nature of implants means their relationship to the other teeth is flawless—and partly about materials. The root of a dental implant is made of titanium, which adapts seamlessly to human bone. After the implant process is completed and the root has fully fused with the jaw, you’ll have the infrastructure of a completely legitimate tooth. 

Fortification of the jaw is essential, as missing teeth can cause loss of jaw density. The bone that holds the teeth sockets, called the alveolar bone, can deteriorate without the full lineup of teeth. 
After you get your implant, our expert in dental implants in West Hollywood encourages you to eat and drink naturally. There are no dietary restrictions for implants. Just brush and floss your teeth normally. Speaking naturally is also enhanced with implants. Dentures can interfere with speech, especially if there are issues with fit. They can also impact your smile and your self-confidence. 
When you get a fixed bridge, nearby teeth need to be modified for support. Implants have no such requirement. They are self-supporting, and last a lifetime with proper care. The midline replacement and refittings that are common for denture-wearers don’t apply to implants.

Your smile priorities should emphasize health and security. Keeping your teeth relatively free of decay and discoloring serves both visual and structural purposes. Replacing lost teeth replenishes the foundation of your smile, ensuring teeth stay where they need to be.

For more, contact our dentist in West Hollywood.

Taking Care of Dental Implants

So you’ve resuscitated your smile with dental implants. But now comes the real test: taking care of them. What a shame it would be to go through the procedure, only to have to return time and again to the dentist office because of improper care. Healthy gums and adequate bone are necessary to even get the treatment.

From there, comes an endosteal or subperiosteal implant. Unlike bridges, dental implants don’t have to be anchored to other teeth. This makes for easier brushing and less of a hassle when eating. Long term success can only come through determination. Regular dentist visits as well as meticulous hygiene will improve the effectiveness of the procedure.

Beverly Hills dental implant dentists have many recommendations for how to tend to dental implants. Ensuring success comes from practicing good oral hygiene. Brush and floss regularly and make sure to have plenty of interdental brushes to get hard to reach places. A big step, for those who need it, is to quit smoking. It weakens bones to an incredible degree. Regular cleanings and exams will ensure everything is kept in perfect condition. And by avoiding chewing hard food, you’re sure to reduce the amount of damage that implants take.

What You Need to Know about Invisalign Retainer Policy

Finding a nearly invisible way to straighten teeth has changed the orthodontic world forever. Invisalign has come to provide a nearly imperceptible way to improve bite, reverse poor dental growth, and ensure that smiles are healthier than before. Subtle corrections can make the alignment of teeth seem all the more natural and less painful. 

Of course, retainers aren’t the easiest thing to keep track of. Sometimes people leave them behind or lose them in the strangest of places. As policy dictates, a certain number of replacement retainers will be available, should a patient have a mistake with them. Either way, these aligners will be replaced every couple weeks. This ensures that the teeth are still shifting and everything is being put into place. They work for any age. All that it’s dependent on is the condition of an individual’s oral health. 

It’s is recommended that such treatment be reserved for those with mild issues. The policy can change depending on the severity of the case, where you’re located, how long treatment takes, and finally your orthodontic health coverage. It’s important to account for extensiveness of use. The policy is important to look into, as it can change treatment methods and effect how people use Invisalign.

How Reliable are Dental Sealants?

Dental sealants are an important tool in preventive dentistry. These thin coatings add an extra layer of protection to the vulnerable pits and fissures on your teeth. Dr. Amini, our San Francisco cosmetic dentist, can help you decide if sealants are right for you or your child. 

Cavities are caused by oral bacteria and acids. Acids are produced by oral bacteria and can be found in many foods and drinks, and these acids erode dental enamel, leading to tooth decay. When used in conjunction with good dental hygiene and dental fluoride, dental sealants add an extra layer of protection against tooth decay and cavities. 

Sealants are painted directly onto the chewing surfaces of molars. They are placed in a single appointment right in our office. The teeth are carefully cleaned, dried and roughened before the sealant is applied. Once cured, dental sealants can remain in place for up to a decade. 

While they can significantly reduce the risk of cavities in sealed teeth, they do not cover all surfaces of teeth and do not eliminate the risk entirely. Good dental habits continue to be important. You will still need to brush and floss as recommended and visit CitiDent every six months for your check-up and cleaning. Call us today to learn more about getting dental sealants in San Francisco or to schedule an appointment.

TMJ Therapy Explained

Any doctor will say that patients shouldn’t wait to receive therapy for their jaw. Between acupuncture, physical therapy, and dental procedures, there are plenty of solutions. When it comes to an ailment like TMJ, the sooner the treatment the more likely it will work. This can help patients avoid pain in the future.

The discomfort of TMJ stems from the overuse or wearing down of the joint connecting the jaw to the skull. As common as it is, many doctors have come up with different treatments. There are many ways to cut through the pain, from muscle relaxers to dental splints and even biobehavioral management. The importance is improving range of motion, keeping flexibility, and strengthening the muscles.

In more severe cases, surgery of the jaw may be required. Arthroscopy and even joint replacement is often a solution. But it’s important to make sure this is required. Dental surgery obviously has a greater impact on the body, so getting a second opinion wouldn’t hurt.

Clearly, there are many remedies for TMJ. And therapy needs to be considered on a case-by-case basis. Medical treatment is a surefire way to bring long-term relief from all that pain.

For more, contact our TMJ doctor in Los Angeles.

Benefits of Flossing Regularly

When it comes to your daily oral health routine, it is crucial not to cut corners. Simple habits such as flossing regularly can positively impact your gum health and fight off gingivitis. It has been proven through numerous studies that flossing will significantly reduce the amount of bleeding and gum inflammation over time. This practice can remove harmful bacteria and plaque resting between teeth, which will ultimately limit your susceptibility to developing cavities.

Follow these awesome tips to ensure you are flossing correctly: 

Use approximately 18 inches of floss and start with most of it wound around each index or middle finger. You will only need to work with one to two inches at a time. 
When you gently glide the floss between two teeth, be sure to cup the floss around each tooth individually. Do not simply perform a saw-like motion between teeth. 
Never snap floss between teeth. If you are having difficulty removing floss, simply glide it out from one side and try again. 
As you move from tooth to tooth, be sure to use a clean section of floss. 

Consider which type of floss is best for your smile. Depending on whether you have dental implants or braces, the type of floss you use can make an impact. 

For more information about the importance of flossing, call our office or schedule an appointment with one of our periodontists in LA.

Should I get veneers?

If you’re looking to revamp your smile in a way that is quick and highly effective, dental veneers are an excellent solution. For many patients considering porcelain veneers, the cost is well worth the stunning results. Not only will you have a gorgeous Hollywood smile, but it will be incredibly simple to maintain.

Porcelain veneers are thin shells that are cemented to the front of your teeth to restore their appearance. During the initial stages of this process, our dentist will discuss with you your desired results. You will get a clear idea of what to anticipate during treatment, as well as the final outcome.

Our dentist will also remove a thin layer of enamel in preparation for each veneer to properly attach to your smile. This is done to ensure your new veneers are completely natural looking. Afterward, he will create a mold of your teeth and your custom veneers will be finished within the next few weeks.
 
During your follow-up appointment, your permanent veneers are applied. By the end of your visit, you will leave with your dream smile and newly found confidence.

Call our office for more information regarding porcelain veneers or to schedule your consultation.

Mini Dental Implants and Their Advantages

Mini dental implants began in the early 90s as an alternative to standard dentures, and have grown in popularity because of their availability to almost anyone. Candidates who were rejected for regulation-size implants due to low bone density can qualify for mini implants, with or without dentures. Mini implants are less than 3mm in diameter, compared to 3.7mm for regulation implants. Fittingly, they cost less. And again, they require less bone for acceptance.

If a patient is not approved for support by a full plate, the same problem can be solved by distributing weight evenly across four to six mini implants. This is also true for patients who may have weak candidacies because of old age or infirmity. Mini implants are much less invasive than regular implants, require only a couple of hours in the chair, and allow the patient to go back to eating and drinking within a few hours of the surgery.

A mini implant is constructed in a threaded way that screws directly into the implant site. The site should already be more secure, since bone removal is not necessary.

For more about the advantages of mini dental implants, contact our expert in implants in Beverly Hills.

Transform Your Smile Discreetly

If you’ve ever worn metal braces, you know just how distracting they can be during adolescence. When it comes time to choose an orthodontic method for your child, you may be surprised by the new advancements and treatments available. 

If your child is self-conscious about wearing metal braces, she may be an ideal candidate for discreet orthodontics. Beyond traditional brackets and archwire, orthodontists now offer Invisalign, lingual braces, and ceramic braces, which will do wonders for your child’s confidence.
 
Invisalign is one of the most discreet options available. This method uses virtually invisible aligner trays that rest on top of teeth and shift them into proper alignment over time.

Ceramic braces are similar to metal. However, they involve tooth-colored brackets. This feature ensures that your child’s braces will blend into their natural teeth. 

Lingual braces are placed on the back, or lingual surface of teeth. Although they are also made of metal, no one will be able to see that your child has braces. This method is also very effective with a high success rate. 

It is important to discuss with your child which option will best suit their needs. If she feels embarrassed about the thought of wearing traditional braces, treatments such as Invisalign may be worth the investment.

For more information about orthodontics, contact our Invisalign doctor in Los Angeles.

Tooth Sensitivity Out of Nowhere

Is there anything worse than a sharp pain shooting through your teeth out of nowhere? Sudden tooth sensitivity can be incredibly irritating, especially if you are unable to identify its cause. Here are some common reasons for sudden tooth sensitivity.

Increase in stress: High levels of cortisol are bad for your overall health. As far as your teeth are concerned, you may be more prone to teeth grinding or bruxism if you experience high levels of stress. This bad habit could easily be the source of newly developed sensitivity. 

Sudden interest in acidic food: Your diet plays a large role in the condition of your teeth. If you recently fell in love with a new food, it is wise to check its acidity levels before you accidentally overdo it.  Acidic foods and sudden change in diet have been known to cause tooth sensitivity.
Tooth Whitening products: Certain bleaching products on the market may cause sensitivity to your teeth if you apply too often, as these whitening formulas are not customized to meet your specific needs. It is important to talk to your dentist before using an OTC whitening product. It is also wise to apply conservatively to avoid dehydrating your teeth. 

Contact our expert in emergency dentistry in Los Angeles if you experience extreme dental sensitivity or toothaches.

Will My TMJ Get Worse

If you notice any signs of jaw pain, you may be wondering how to target them before they get any worse. Fortunately, there are several things you can do to avoid TMJ and combat irritation at its source.
 
TMJ, or temporomandibular disorder, is considered pain in the joint that connects the jawbone to the skull. Soreness found in this joint could have several different causes, such as stress, arthritis, trauma to the mouth, or erosion of the disk holding proper alignment. 

What you can do to keep TMJ pain from getting worse:
Apply a heated compress- to relieve joint tension
Apply ice indirectly- to reduce swelling
Relaxation Techniques- participate in yoga, massage therapy, or breathing exercises to reduce stress
OTC pain relievers- to combat swelling and nerve pain
See a professional- for an oral appliance that may help realign your jaw for long-term comfort
Avoid bad habits- such as biting nails and clenching jaw; reduce gum chewing 

Our TMJ doctor has many solutions to help target your jaw pain. It is important to seek medical advice as to avoid severe headaches, back and neck pain. Call our office for more information or to schedule an appointment.

Invisalign Timeline

Invisalign is an alternative orthodontic treatment that gets rave reviews from providers and patients. It is very effective against crooked or rotated teeth, and has even seen some changes in patient malocclusion—or bad bite. As a visual aid, it is superior to traditional braces, which most patients—especially younger ones—consider an obstruction even in their more updated forms.
Invisalign is also faster than braces in most cases. This is also part of the draw. Braces can take as long as two years, while Invisalign rarely takes more than a year. 

Your total treatment time is determined by the severity of your case. Your dentist prescribes your number of aligner sets in advance, with new sets scheduled at two week intervals. Invisalign is a staged system, with each new set extending the progress of the previous one. If you wear them as instructed, and observe monthly checkups, your treatment largely takes care of itself. 

Of course, this schedule is contingent on you wearing your aligners 22 hours a day, no exceptions. Taking them out for meals is all that’s allowed, otherwise you risk falling behind in your treatment.
 
Ask your Invisalign dentist in LA about ways to guarantee a timely result.

What Can Invisalign Do for Me?

If you have ever looked in the mirror and wished for a straighter, more even smile, it might be time to consider orthodontics. Today’s orthodontic options are more extensive than ever before and include not just conventional and clear braces but also Invisalign, a system of clear aligners that are smooth and removable. These aligners gradually shift your teeth over the course of treatment until each tooth is in a perfectly balanced position. Our Invisalign dentist in Beverly Hills can help you decide if Invisalign is right for you. 

Invisalign can do a lot for you, including: 

1. Give you a healthy, straight smile
Imbalanced smiles can put abnormal pressure on the jaw joint and cause teeth to wear unevenly. Invisalign can treat many of the same bite problems that braces can. It can bring your jaws and bite back into alignment and create a healthy, balanced smile that is easy to clean and maintain. 
2. Give you a confident smile
A crooked smile might make you feel embarrassed, but visible wires and brackets can be just as embarrassing. The clear aligners of Invisalign straighten your smile invisibly, and every two weeks, your teeth will get a little bit straighter until the only thing people will see is your beautifully straight smile.

3. Give you a worry-free smile
With removable aligners, you don’t have to worry about your diet or your dental hygiene routine. You can easily remove your aligners each time you eat, or when you brush and floss, making your entire treatment experience simple and convenient.

Call our office today to learn more about how Invisalign can transform your smile or to schedule your consultation with our team.

Aftercare for Dental Implants

Dental implants are a great solution to restoring smiles and supporting a strong, healthy jawbone. Before you go in for your procedure, it is important to understand the proper care necessary to support your new implants. Our Los Angeles implant doctor is an expert when it comes to helping patients regain confidence through beautiful, highly functional dental implants. 

A dental implant is an artificial tooth root that is inserted into the jawbone to act as an anchor for a porcelain crown. Your dental implant will take several weeks to heal, as your jaw must naturally fuse to the metal implant. After the bond strengthens and your gums heal, your dentist will attach an abutment, and eventually a porcelain crown. After your dental implant process is complete, you will have gorgeous and natural looking results. To take proper care of your dental implant, switch to non-abrasive toothpaste and special implant floss. It is incredibly important to take good care of your gums in order to avoid infection. With the proper attention, you can expect your dental implants to last a lifetime.

Contact our office today to address any questions or concerns you have regarding dental implants or to schedule an appointment.

Invisalign and Its Advantages

If you have been considering orthodontic treatment to straighten your smile, you might have wondered if Invisalign might be right for you. Invisalign is an advanced system of transparent plastic aligners that progressively straightens your teeth. These custom-made aligners fit your teeth at each stage of treatment and apply pressure at specific points so that there is no need for brackets or wires. Our Invisalign provider can use Invisalign in much the same way as braces to treat overbites, underbites, crossbites, gapped teeth and crowded teeth.

Some of the advantages of Invisalign include: 

1. They are transparent, making them almost invisible when you wear them. 
Many teens and adults are uncomfortable with the idea of wearing visible braces. Invisalign aligners are made to fit over your teeth without any noticeable wires or brackets, and your friends, family members and coworkers will never need to know you are wearing them.

2. They require no food restrictions. 
Patients who undergo treatment with conventional braces often have to forego a variety of foods because they can damage either their teeth or braces. With Invisalign, you can simply remove the aligners when you eat, and you can enjoy whatever you want, including whole apples, popcorn, nuts, corn on the cob and anything else you like. 

3. Brushing is a breeze. 
Cleaning your teeth can be a complicated ordeal with braces because you have to brush around bulky brackets and maneuver floss around the wires. If you miss a spot, your dental health could be at risk. With Invisalign, you will brush and floss while your aligners are out just like you did before you wore aligners. 

Call our office today to learn more or to schedule a consultation.

Does Invisalign Work Faster than Braces?

For patients trying to decide which orthodontic treatment right for them, the search can be somewhat confusing. For many people, especially older patients, the thought of wearing noticeable dental brackets that traditional braces provide can be embarrassing. Fortunately, there are several new methods that are more discrete than standard braces, and typically take less time to display noticeable results.

When deciding between traditional braces and Invisalign, you should take into consideration the amount of time you plan to spend in the orthodontist’s office. Patients with this discrete method change their aligner trays every two weeks and plan visits to their orthodontist every four to six weeks, whereas patients with standard braces visit their orthodontist every month. Aligner trays do not impact your diet in any way, as you remove them before eating or drinking. The standard length of time needed for this treatment is up to 18 months, while traditional braces are known to take up to two years. In the long run, this method is a great option for someone who can commit to wearing aligner trays for up to 22 hours a day and does not wish to change their dental hygiene practice of brushing and flossing daily. When it comes to caring for your aligners, you can rinse them in warm water and apply toothpaste with a soft-bristled brush.

Talk to our dentist to find out if this treatment is right for you.

Does TMJ Damage Nerves?

Facial pain and tenderness of the jawbone can make it difficult to go through your day. For some patients, it can be challenging to identify a source of pain because of the intricate composition surrounding the jaw joints.

TMJ is characterized as pain located in the joint that connects your jawbone to your skull. Unlike Trigeminal Neuralgia, TMJ is not associated with the nerve endings near your jaw. Common symptoms of TMJ include headache, painful sensations in the ears, dizziness, shoulder and neck pain, and a popping sound when you move your jaw. Certain people are more prone to develop temporomandibular disorder than others. Patients become more likely to develop this disorder as they age. People who have arthritis, experience high levels of stress, and are known to grind their teeth should take preventative measures to avoid TMJ. Some habits you should avoid if you experience jaw tightening are gum chewing, eating hard candy, and sleeping with poor posture.

 If you notice signs of TMJ, there are several massage techniques to target and relieve your joint pain. Many professionals may recommend dental splints to avoid further irritation to the jaw and teeth. Our Los Angeles TMJ expert can answer any questions you may have about this condition.

Pros and Cons of Dental Implants

According to the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, about 25 percent of Americans lose all their teeth by the time they reach 75. Tooth loss can often be blamed on gum disease, tooth decay, accidents and other serious dental problems, but once a tooth is lost, it must be replaced to restore the look and function of your smile. In the past, dentures and bridges were used to fill the gaps, but today, our dentist in Torrance uses dental implants. Weighing the pros and cons of implants can help you decide on the best restoration for your needs. 

Pros

Dental implants are titanium screw-like devices that are anchored by the jawbone. The device is placed in several steps, but once it is in place, it is considered a permanent restoration. Each bite you take and each time you chew, the jawbone is stimulated just like it would be if the implant were a natural tooth. This helps keep the bone strong and dense. Implants look, feel and act just like your own teeth, and once they have fused with the jawbone, they can be restored with dental crowns or your choice of restoration, including bridges or dentures. 

Cons 

All procedures do have downsides, including implants. Implants are generally recognized as safe and have a high success rate, but as with any surgery, complications can occur. It is important to discuss risks and complications with our team before making your decision. Additionally, the implant process can take longer than other types of restorations, and initial costs can be higher even though the long-term costs tend to be lower.

Call our office today to learn more about getting dental implants in Torrance or to schedule your consultation with our team.

How is Dental Reconstruction Done?

Full mouth reconstruction is used as both emergency dentistry—when teeth have been lost traumatically—and as a long-term treatment plan for the full or partially toothless. It can involve pieces of general, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry. Depending on your budget and needs, it can revolutionize your smile and take years off your look.

If your teeth are worn down by bruxism or simple attrition, you may start with dental crowns. These are prophylactic in nature, and are wrapped around teeth after decayed tooth structure is drilled out. If you have the budget and time, ask your cosmetic dentist in West Hollywood about dental implants. If you have sufficient bone density, implants are the preferred mode of tooth replacement by modern practices. A crown is placed over a titanium root, which grafts naturally with the jawbone over a period of weeks.

Less drastic, or invasive, procedures include dental bonding—which can fill in gaps or spaces and hide chips or cracks—and porcelain veneers—thin laminates bonded to the teeth to camouflage flaws. One form of veneers known as Lumineers does not require drilling or removal of existing teeth structure.

Any problems with bite or the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) are handled by specialists in neuromuscular dentistry. Ask our expert in dental reconstruction in West Hollywood for more.

What Your Jaw Pain Means

Jaw pain is a common problem. This complex joint hinges and slides so that you can yawn, talk, bite and chew. Many things can lead to dysfunction and pain in this region. Our cosmetic dentist in Huntington Beach can help you uncover the source of the problem and relieve it. 

Common causes of jaw pain often include: 

Teeth grinding, which can be alleviated with a properly fitted night guard
Jaw injury, which will need to be treated according to the type of injury
Infection, which might need antibiotics or root canal therapy
Periodontal disease, which can be treated with conservative therapies or surgery
Toothaches, which will need to be addressed based on the cause and severity of the problem


TMJ disorder is one of the most common causes of jaw pain. This can occur when something interferes with the proper function of the temporomandibular joint. Treatment can include lifestyle changes, physical therapy, medication, orthodontic treatment or surgery, depending on the extent and cause of the disorder. 

We will work with you to create a customized treatment plan based on the cause of your jaw pain and work to restore the full range of motion. Call our office today to schedule your appointment with our expert in jaw pain in Huntington Beach.

Is Getting Veneers Painful?

The main concern of patients before any sort of dental treatment or procedure is whether or not it will be painful. This is the case for those who are getting porcelain veneers, as well. Our Los Angeles veneer dentist ensures patients that there is no pain involved in this process.

The part that patients are most often concerned about is the removal of a thin layer of dental enamel. While it may sound like this could hurt, dental enamel is simply hard tissue that is not connected to any nerves or blood vessels. You may hear the sounds of our dentist using their tools against your teeth, but it is unlikely you will feel any pain. Furthermore, such a small amount of enamel needs to be removed that you may not even notice a difference afterwards.

The second half of the process is simple. We will place each veneer one at a time on the teeth. The will be held in place with dental bonding, which is used often in dentistry. A special light will then be used to cure and harden the bonding into place. This light may feel warm, but will not hurt in any way.

If you have any other concerns about the dental placement process, be sure to give us a call.

Are Lumineers Reversible?

Lumineers are a product based on revolutionary thinness. The laminates are made of porcelain like ordinary veneers, but cut to the approximate width of a contact lens. This is a drastic improvement, one that changes the veneer process entirely. Ordinary veneers require drilling or trimming of existing tooth structure to ensure proper fit. Lumineers skip this intrusion and bond directly to teeth.

Denmat, the company behind Lumineers, markets the product as a reversible commodity. This is due to the no-prep/no-drill effect. Since your teeth retain their original size and shape, the laminates can be taken off at any point. However, just because it’s possible doesn’t mean you should see Lumineers as a temporary fix. The product is meant to be worn for 20 years or more, without discoloration, and with proper care. As outlined by our expert in Lumineers in North Hollywood, this includes eating and drinking sensibly, not smoking, and practicing regular hygiene.

The process of Lumineers removal is not time-sensitive—in other words, you should not anticipate a quick removal since the bonding cement is very adherent. Another caution you should take is that tooth enamel, ironically, may emerge from behind the Lumineers in a marred condition.

Ask your North Hollywood cosmetic dentist for more about the reversibility of Lumineers.

How Long Does Root Canal Therapy Take?

The time devoted to a root canal treatment can vary based on the extent of the infection and your individual needs. In many cases, just one visit is needed to complete a root canal. However, some patients may need two or more scheduled visits to complete their treatment. Our dentist in Santa Clara will determine the time needed to complete your root canal upon consultation.

The first task is to clean and shape the root canals of the tooth. Next, the root canals are filled and sealed. Both steps may be completed same day, but it may be done at a later appointment if the infection was severe, or there is significant inflammation present. Scheduling multiple appointments allows us to manage flare-ups and gives your tooth time to heal between the initial root canal treatment and the sealing process.

If the treatment is completed in a single appointment, it may be done in 30 to 90 minutes. This variation is dependent on the number of roots that are present. Teeth with single canals will take less time than teeth with multiple canals. The restoration of the treated tooth is typically completed at a later appointment.

An infected or abscessed tooth cannot be treated at home, and will only heal once the diseased tissue has been removed. Call our dental office today to learn more or to schedule your appointment with our root canal dentist in Santa Clara.

Facts About Incognito Braces

Have you been thinking about getting braces, but are worried about how they will make you look? Nobody wants a smile marred by metal, and traditional braces give you just that. Fortunately, our Los Angeles orthodontists offer a new, much less noticeable option with Incognito braces.

Whereas traditional metal braces feature brackets and wires placed on the front surfaces of the teeth, Incognito braces are bonded to the lingual sides. The lingual side is the back surfaces of the teeth. This means that patients can speak and smile freely, without having to worry about an unsightly metal appliance creating a look they do not want to show off.

Incognito braces work exactly as traditional ones do, with a metal wire running through brackets placed on each tooth. The wires are tightened in order to pull the teeth into place. Not only do braces placed on the back of the teeth provide a more discreet orthodontic experience, but it also means they are unable to irritate the soft tissues of the mouth, creating a more comfortable process, as well.

If you are interested in this option, visit our incognito braces dentist to find out if you are a good candidate.

Why See a General Dentist?

If you have ever gone to a dentist for a basic appointment, chances are you were seen by a general dentist. General dentistry exists ensure that your teeth are, and remain, healthy and beautiful. It is very important to see a general dentist at least twice a year. Here are some reasons why.

Even if you brush and floss your teeth as often as needed, bacteria and plaque can still develop on the smile. This can lead to tartar, a sticky substance that causes dental decay and many other oral health issues. Only a professional with the right tools can remove tartar, making regular appointments a must for your ongoing good health.

Did you know that dental appointments are when certain overall health problems are most often identified? In fact, many dentists can spot a health concern within just a minute of looking at your teeth. These issues include diabetes, eating disorders, and oral cancer. Problems such as these are more easily treated when caught as early as possible, so be sure to attend dental appointments regularly.

A significant goal of general dentists is to prevent dental problems from occurring, a practice called preventive dentistry. Be sure to avoid any unnecessary dental health concerns by scheduling and attending appointments with our Agoura Hills dentist at least every six months.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Root Canals

Root canal is by now a highly patented service that belies the old fears. It is largely painless, has a high success rate, and is generally the best remedy for teeth suffering from pulpitis or abscess.

The best advantage of a root canal is that it prevents an extraction. If you’re worried about full coverage, even a missing molar could be visible if your smile zone is wide enough. Root canal is performed on a tooth that is nearly or completely dead. A thorough excavation of the root canal effectively strips out whatever life is left in the tooth. But the tooth remains.

Industry watchers who disfavor root canals argue that a dead tooth, no matter the extent to which it’s embalmed, is potentially toxic in the mouth. This is why an expert in root canal in San Fernando Valley is essential. Making sure the entire root system of the tooth is clear of material the first time keeps your procedure’s odds of rejection low, and therefore your risk for retreatment, in the lowest range.

Remember, a root canal is always the healthiest choice. Keeping a tooth in its place, dead or alive, keeps nearby teeth in theirs, and ensures you maintain bite function and visual integrity.

Call our dentist in San Fernando Valley for more about root canals.

Treatments Involved in General Dentistry

General dentistry is an important part of this field. If you go to a check-up dental appointment, you are likely seeing a general dentistry. These professionals offer a wide range of treatments in order to ensure your teeth stay beautiful and healthy. Here is a look at some general dental treatments offered.

At a regular check-up appointment, our San Francisco dentist will examine your teeth, gums, and other areas of the mouth. They will look for plaque and tartar on the teeth, and any sores or lesions in the soft tissues. These appointments are when mouth cancer and other serious health issues are most often identified, making it essential for patients to not skip out on these check-ups.

General dentistry also involves some preventive treatments. For example, dental sealants can be applied during check-up and cleaning appointments in order to protect the teeth from bacteria turning into sticky plaque. A fluoride treatment can prompt remineralization, which can build up the protective layer of dental enamel. Our dentist can also recommend a dental restoration, such as a dental crown or filling.

General dentistry appointments are vital for keeping the teeth and mouth healthy. If it has been more than six months since your last check-up, be sure to schedule one today.

Are Braces Always Metal?

Metal braces are a thing of the past. It’s no secret that no patient wants a mouth full of bulky and pointy metal brackets and wires. While this was the only option for patients in the past, there are several appliances now available today that are much less cumbersome and noticeable. Here is a look at these options.

Ceramic braces, or white braces, are a very popular choice with patients today. This appliance features brackets made out of ceramic, a material used often in dentistry. It is often preferred because of its similarity in shade to natural tooth enamel. While the wires are still metallic, the appliance as a whole is much less noticeable.

Invisalign is typically the go-to choice for patients looking for a discreet orthodontic experience. This appliance is shaped and fits around the teeth just like a mouth guard. It is made of a see-through material that usually goes unnoticed by others. Invisalign aligners are also very comfortable and easily removable. Our Rocklin orthodontist will likely be able to tell you whether or not you are a candidate for this option.

Do not let your ideas of the way braces look prevent you from getting the smile you want. Schedule a consultation today.

How to Use TMJ Appliances

TMJ disorder can arise from any number of circumstances. Arthritis can inflame the temporomandibular joint. Or the joint itself can become internally deranged, due to a displaced disc or injured condyle. Finally, TMJ pain may occur simply because of anxiety or a lifetime of bad posture.

After seeing your Los Angeles TMJ treatment expert and trying several remedies at-home and otherwise—recommended therapies can include everything from prescribed antidepressants to applied use of heat and cold—you may decide to try a TMJ appliance. These are alternately called orthotics, occlusal splints, occlusal appliances or simply “night guards”. Similar to what athletes wear to protect their teeth in-game, these devices are custom-fit and can be prescribed to either stabilize (in the event your TMJ symptoms are deemed due to excess teeth-clenching) or reposition (in the event your TMJ symptoms are due to a pathology of the joint).

Splint therapy eases stress on the myofacial muscles and palpates the joints. Factors believed to contribute to TMJ, like tongue thrusting and reverse swallowing, can be managed as well. Most specialists recommend wearing the device while sleeping, plus one hour during the day.

Appliance therapy for TMJ is still being studied, much like the condition itself. Ask your doctor for more information.

Orthodontic Process with Braces

Many patients require orthodontic treatment with braces. This is usually because braces are the best at moving the teeth and correcting any type of orthodontic issue. These include crooked and rotated teeth, as well as spacing and bite alignment issues. Here is a look at how metal braces achieve this.

Our Torrance cosmetic dentist will apply the brackets to the teeth and run the wires through them during an appointment that typically lasts about an hour. Patients usually report that the teeth will feel painful and uncomfortable for a few days afterwards. This is because the wires are tight in place, creating pressure. At appointments that take place about every two weeks throughout the treatment process, our braces expert will tighten and snip the wires a little bit each time. This continues to put pressure on the teeth, effectively pulling the teeth into straighter, healthier spaces.

If the pressure or abrasion from the metal becomes too painful, our Torrance braces dentist can make some adjustments. You may also be a candidate for alternatives to traditional braces, such as lingual braces, which work the same, but are placed on the back sides of the teeth. Ask our dentist how braces could benefit your smile.