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Dental Implants

What’s Dental Implant Surgery?

Dental Implants Surgery is a medical procedure that allows you to replace damaged or crooked teeth with artificial ones. The functionality and look of the implants are the same as the real ones – replacing weakened tooth roots with metal posts to support new bridgework and dentures.

Smiling lady at the dentist’s clinic prepping for her dental implant surgery

The way this surgery is performed depends on the condition of your jawbone and the type of implant you want to get. Though it’s an extensive process that consists of several procedures, the result is guaranteed to make it all worth it. One of the major benefits of getting dental implants is the strengthening of gums and having solid support for your new pearly whites. They serve as a replacement for the root of a missing tooth.

Planning & Safety

Getting dental implants means consulting with lots and dentists and going through different dental exams so you can end up with teeth that fit perfectly to the dimensions of your mouth. First, you visit an oral surgeon who specializes in conditions of the mouth, jaw, and face. Next, you consult a dentist who specializes in treating gums and bones that support your teeth. And finally, you meet with a prosthodontist who designs and fits artificial teeth.

As per safety protocols, every patient that comes in for dental implants has to go through a comprehensive dental exam where X-rays and 3D images are taken of the mouth. Next, there’s a thorough review of your medical history to determine pre and post-surgery care. And finally, a treatment plan is tailored to your situation that factors in how many implants you need and the type of anesthesia that is to be given.

Road to Recovery

After the dental implant surgery procedure is completed and the metal posts are secured, it’s time for osseointegration to start. This process allows the jawbone to grow into the surface of the implants. The healing process takes several months but the wait is definitely worth it. Call and make an appointment at West Los Angeles Dentistry and we will bring back that beautiful smile.

Teeth Whitening

Get A Brighter, Whiter Smile In 2020 To Feel More Self-Confident About Your Appearance

A person’s teeth can become stained and dingy over the years. When the discoloration occurs, many individuals don’t like the reflection that is staring back at them in the mirror, and they often become self-conscious about their appearances. Then, instead of laughing, talking, and living a care-free lifestyle, these people tend to keep their lips closed tightly at all times, which is no good. Folks deserve to feel great about how they look, and they should never be afraid to show off their pearly whites.

Unfortunately, that is not always the case, though. After all, it is not uncommon for adults and teens alike to fear what others might think about them. Luckily, there is something that an individual can do to nip stains in the bud. They can contact a dentist and schedule a consultation to discover if a teeth whitening procedure is right for them. Curious parties should read on to learn more.

What Causes Tooth Enamel To Stain?

Numerous things can cause stains on the teeth. For instance, smoking or using smokeless tobacco can lead to tooth surfaces becoming blemished. Taking particular medications often produces the same result. Even many of the foods and drinks that people consume leave stains behind. Some of the more common ones include…

  • Red Wine
  • Coffee
  • Tea
  • Berries
  • Curries

Heck, sometimes, water can be to blame. How? Well, if the H2O contains high levels of fluoride, the consumer’s teeth can turn a brownish color. Feel free to discuss staining further with your dentist. The professionals know the ins and outs of everything teeth-related, and they will be more than happy to share the information with you.

DIY Whitening May Not Produce The Desired Results

There are plenty of over-the-counter teeth whitening products on the market today. Some contain trays that have to be left in the mouth for an allotted amount of time. Meanwhile, others feature strips that must remain on the teeth for a period. There is not necessarily anything wrong with these options. However, they typically do not produce as good of an outcome as professional teeth whitening. In other words, a person’s teeth might not become as bright as he or she would like.

Plus, a dentist’s whitening process can usually be completed in one visit. They clean the teeth, apply a gel to the tooth surface, and activate the substance with a special light. Then, the patient is free to go about their everyday routine.

Professional Teeth Whitening Eliminates Sensitivity From The Equation

Do-it-yourself teeth whitening products are notorious for causing discomfort and sensitivity. There is no point in a person experiencing pain while only trying to make their teeth shades whiter. Professional treatments are not known to cause this irritation. Hence, it is a good idea to improve the color of your teeth through a dentist. He or she will have your smile looking its best again in no time flat and without any distress.

Contact West LA Dentistry for all of your teeth whitening and other dental needs.

Tooth Decay: Things You Should Know

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one of the common oral health conditions is tooth decay. It happens when there is damage on the surface of a tooth. This problem can lead to cavities, which are also known as holes in the teeth. If left untreated, tooth decay can lead to infection, pain, or even loss of a tooth.

tooth decay

Causes

Knowing what can cause it is the best way to prevent tooth decay. The main causes are food and drinks that are sticky and have high-sugar content. It is because of the acid that sugar produces. If this gets combined with plaque, it weakens your teeth’s enamel. Aside from these types of food, other things can cause tooth decay.

  • Inadequate or improper brushing
  • Dry mouth
  • Bacteria
  • Eating disorders
  • Other medical issues
  • Acid

Symptoms

The severity of the problem may differ. Thus, the symptoms can also vary. One might not even feel the signs until it is too late. Early stages may not be as obvious. However, some common symptoms become more visible as the decay becomes larger.

  • Sensitivity of tooth
  • Sharp and spontaneous toothaches
  • Feeling of pain when chewing, biting, or eating hot, cold, or sweet food
  • Visible pits or holes
  • Staining on teeth surface

Prevention

The best way to prevent tooth decay is to have proper oral hygiene practice. Having tooth decay may not always be apparent. That is why it is crucial to have regular check-ups and cleanings with dental professionals. If you ever experience any sign of pain on your teeth, consult a dentist immediately.

  • Brush your teeth regularly. Do it at least two times a day. You should also use fluoride-based toothpaste only. The best time to brush is after every meal and before you go to bed. You should also not forget to floss to remove food residue that is between your teeth.
  • Avoid eating snacks between meals. Your teeth need to have a break between meals so that the saliva can wash away any food debris and help clean your teeth. Snacking can put your teeth under continuous attack.
  • Choose nutritious food and always have a well-balanced diet. Fresh fruits and vegetables help promote the production of saliva. Meanwhile, unsweetened drinks can assist in washing away food residue.
  • Use a mouthwash that has fluoride at least once a day.
  • Consider getting dental sealants to protect your tooth enamel.

Visiting a dental professional is still your best defense against tooth decay and other oral health conditions. However, you should also understand your responsibilities to ensure your teeth remains healthy. You should also remember the possible causes of the problem so you can prevent it from happening.

Not only do oral health problems cause pain, but they also affect our overall well-being. That is why one should prioritize one’s dental health. If you are looking for someone to help with your dental needs, check out West LA Dentistry. Call us now and schedule an appointment with us.

Are Baby Teeth Important?

Five Ways Your Children’s Baby Teeth Are Just As Important As Permanent Teeth

The majority of children who see the dentist for the first time are usually well over two years old. Yet, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) more than 40% of children in the US have decay by the time they start kindergarten. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends that your child sees a dentist by age one or within six months after their first tooth. You may be thinking “that is so young!”, so let’s look at the importance of pediatric dental care.  Primary teeth or “baby teeth” often do not get the recognition of how important they are to your child’s development. After all, they just fall out as the child grows. We have listed 5 reasons why baby teeth are a vital part of their growth:

1. Promotes Healthy Permanent Teeth:

Since your child’s permanent teeth develop close to the roots of their baby teeth, any decay in the baby tooth can spread quickly. If left untreated, the baby tooth can abscess which hinders the development of the permanent tooth. This can lead to lifelong damage to the tooth.

2. Alignment Of Permanent Teeth:

Your child’s baby teeth, keep the space and alignment of the mouth and guide the permanent teeth into their proper position. If a baby tooth is lost, the teeth next to it will drift to fill the space, making less room for permanent teeth to come in. These teeth can even be blocked from going into place.

3. Good Health And Nutrition:

You need teeth to chew. If your child is suffering sensitivity or pain from cavities, they will not be able to properly chew their food, leading to poor nutrition. If there is an infection from an abscess, it can spread and can become an emergency situation. 

4. Development Of Speech and Facial Muscles:

To form sounds, the tongue, lips and cheeks deflect off of teeth. The alignment and presence of the baby teeth help your child form correct pronunciation for speech. The tooth structure also supports your child’s developing  facial muscles that shapes your child’s face. 

5. Concentration And Self Esteem:

If your child is experiencing a toothache, it will affect their performance in school. Decayed teeth, especially those in front, will affect their confidence. They are at risk for being bullied. If allowed to continue, it can lead to missed school and trips to the emergency dental clinic which will be a costly visit.

Most people are not aware of the importance of their child’s primary teeth and how they affect the child’s lifelong dental health. Not only is the first visit at an early  age a good start to alleviating the fear of going to the dentist, but most dentists will be able to educate the child’s caregiver on “do’s and don’ts to promote good dental health, proper tools and techniques for brushing and flossing and maintaining your child’s bright smile. The dental team of West LA Dentistry provides gentle, expert care to all children.

Do you have good dental habits?

The Importance Of Oral Health For One’s Well-Being. Smile!

Oral health is a fundamental aspect of a person’s overall well-being. However, it is something that a lot of people take for granted and tend to overlook. What most people do not know is that one’s mouth can be a reflection of a person’s health. A healthy mouth is more than just a beautiful smile.

As the old saying goes, “prevention is better than cure.” This saying is true even when it comes to dental health. To avoid problems with one’s teeth and gums, one should implement proper oral hygiene. Undergoing a preventative dental procedure with the help of a professional can also give you additional protection.

Prevention of Health Problems

Lack of dental care can lead to various complications, including gingivitis. Research studies show a link between gum diseases and some health conditions.

  • Inflammation in gums and the existence of bacteria can cause arteries to become narrow. Thus, increasing the risk of having a heart disease.
  • Bacteria found in a person’s mouth can affect the lungs and lead to infections. One might even get pneumonia due to this. This incident usually happens to those who have periodontal disease.
  • Some studies also suggest a link between gum disease and a higher risk of developing certain types of cancer. Among those they mentioned are cancer of the kidney, pancreas, and blood.

A Confidence Booster

A person’s dental care, or a lack thereof, can be seen over time. Untreated tooth problems, such as gum disease and tooth decay, can lead to discoloration or loss of teeth, bad breath, and damage. Having these problems may affect a person’s confidence. Through regular oral care, one can prevent any damage and repair existing ones.

Save Money

Some people think that spending for regular checkups and cleaning procedures is unnecessary. However, that is false. Skipping checkups can lead to more expenses in the future. If one does not deal with a problem immediately, it may lead to more complicated ones that will require costly procedures. 

Dealing With The Pain

Some people tend to disregard oral pain, thinking that a toothache will eventually go on its own. But what one might think of as a simple toothache can signal to a bigger problem or infection. It can also lead to a worse experience as it can trigger severe headaches and other complications.

Dental care is fundamental to attaining a positive and healthy lifestyle. That is why one should visit and consult a dentist regularly. Investing in preventive care can also help one avoid having to spend more time and money in the future.

One should do the same when feeling discomfort or pain in one’s mouth. Do not risk your overall health by ignoring the signs that your teeth and gums are telling you. Visit a dentist now to ensure peace of mind. Contact West LA Dentistry and schedule an appointment. Through our professional dental services, you can have the assurance of a healthy mouth and overall well-being.

Find the right toothpaste…

Preventative Dentistry

Which Toothpaste Ingredients Really Help?

In today’s dental hygiene aisle, you can find row after row of toothpastes that offer all kinds of special ingredients and useful properties.  However, not all of these additives are equal.  Some aren’t as effective as the packaging would have you believe, and a few might even create more problems than they claim to solve.  Still, there are some toothpaste ingredients that definitely and provably help, and when you use a toothpaste with all these ingredients it’ll do your teeth a world of good.

Abrasives

Almost every toothpaste in the world includes some kind of abrasive.  The abrasive is very fine, which is why toothpaste doesn’t feel gritty, but it’s still hard enough to scrape off the layer of plaque on your teeth without damaging your enamel.  Most types of polish also use abrasives, and in fact there are many home remedies that use toothpaste as a kind of emergency polish.

Fluoride

Fluoride helps keep your teeth strong by reversing some of the daily damage to your tooth enamel by the bacteria in your mouth.  That’s why most cities in America fluoridate their water, but you can get a more direct application by using toothpaste with fluoride.  In fact, the benefit of fluoridated toothpaste is so obvious that it’s become a very common ingredient in most of the popular formulas.

Desensitizers

Some people have overly sensitive teeth that make it hard to drink hot or cold liquids or to eat certain kinds of foods.  This condition can also make brushing your teeth feel unpleasant.  That’s why many companies offer toothpaste “for sensitive teeth” that contain ingredients like potassium nitrate and stannous fluoride.  These ingredients work by turning off local nerve cells or by creating thin layer to protect them, and they can make your mouth much more comfortable for several hours after you brush.

Peroxides

There are several toothpastes that say they can whiten teeth, but in many cases all they really do is brush off plaque and make you feel better about your mouth.  The most effective toothpastes for whitening include small amounts of peroxides, a chemical that can remove stains in teeth.  However, the amount of peroxides in toothpaste is very small, so the best way to whiten your teeth is to schedule a visit with your dentist.

Antimicrobials

Since bacteria cause so much trouble in your mouth, many toothpastes include antimicrobial chemicals that can reduce the bacteria population in your mouth.  By doing this, antimicrobials can fight cavities and help you avoid gum infections like gingivitis.  Mouthwashes also fight bacteria, although they can also have some downsides.

You can find plenty of toothpastes with unique and naturally sourced ingredients, but it’s more important to find a toothpaste that works rather than one that claims it comes from natural sources.  You should also remember to get your teeth cleaned at a dentist twice each year, and if you live in our area you can come to West LA Dentistry.  Not only can we find cavities early during a checkup, we can also scrape off the tartar, fluoridate your teeth, and whiten your teeth during your visit.

Getting To The Bottom Of Cavities

Getting To The Bottom Of Cavities. Some Answers.

Cavities are a real pain, and more than 90% of adults have had a cavity at least once in their lifetime. As a matter of fact, around 27% of adults have untreated cavities right now, and these cavities could be leading to much more than simple oral discomfort. A cavity is a permanently damaged area to the surface of the tooth, and it must undergo professional repair in order to save the tooth’s structure. If left untreated, a cavity will only grow worse, leading to further decay, tooth loss, and the need for more intensive treatment.

If you’re unsure if you have cavities that require treatment, there are a number of symptoms that you can look out for. Some of these are more obvious than others, but the more obvious the symptoms are, the more likely you’ll need to face more immediate and intensive treatment. A toothache is the most common sign of a cavity, and it may come on spontaneously with no known cause. The toothache could be triggered by ingesting hot or cold foods and beverages, or it could start for seemingly no reason at all. As a cavity grows larger, you may notice a visible or feelable pit or hole in your tooth. When this occurs, you should seek dental treatment right away.

What Causes Cavities?

The best way to avoid cavities is to know just what causes them, and how you can change your lifestyle to combat the formation of cavities in the first place. The process that causes tooth decay is comprised of these 3 steps:

  1. The formation of plaque – If you’ve ever felt like your teeth are wearing a “wooly sweater”, what you’re really feeling is plaque. Plaque is a clear and sticky film that covers the surface of the tooth, and it’s caused by eating sugary or starchy foods and not cleaning your teeth well after these materials come into contact with them. Plaque is typically removed via brushing, but one must brush thoroughly to combat it.
  • The plaque does its damage – Plaque is acidic, and these acids do their damage to the hard enamel of the tooth’s surface. Once the plaque has worn away, bacteria can then begin to attack the softer dentin layer of the tooth.
  • Further tooth destruction – The enamel layer is the hardest and sturdiest layer of the tooth, and once it’s gone, acids and bacteria can make easy work of the rest of the tooth’s structure. After eating through dentin, the bacteria and acids will work their way to the pulp, causing the need for root canal or full tooth extraction.

Better Care For Fewer Cavities

The single best way to combat cavities is with regular visits to your dentist. They can determine how at risk your teeth are, and repair any current issues you may be experiencing with your teeth. If you suspect you have cavities that require repair, or you’d like to learn more about preventing future cavities, contact us at West LA Dentistry today.

The Link Between Dental Care and Your Overall Health

When you follow a good oral health routine, you can successfully keep bad breath at bay, avoid tooth decay and gum disease, and help save your teeth as you age. On the other hand, if your mouth is unhealthy and you fail to follow good oral hygiene, you can significantly increase your risk for health complications down the line.

The Connection

The mouth is full of bacteria, just like other parts of the body. However, a lot of this bacteria is actually harmless. The mouth is the point of entry for the systems in the body, including the digestive and respiratory tracts and these are areas that can cause certain diseases.

Good oral care is just one of the body’s natural defenses, and this is how we can keep the bacteria under control. To do this, we need to brush and floss regularly and maintain high levels of proper oral hygiene.

Conditions Caused by Oral Health Issues

Did you know that your mouth is a good indicator of what else may be going on in your body? It is a good way to detect certain diseases early on. Diabetes, for example, can manifest itself as mouth lesions or other oral problems.

Cardiovascular disease may be due to clogged arteries, and strokes are linked to inflammation and infections that may be caused by oral bacteria. Pregnancy and birth complications, as the result of periodontitis, have also been noted. This condition has been linked to both premature birth and low birth weight.

Protecting Your Oral Health

Practicing good oral hygiene on a daily basis is one of the best ways you can protect your oral health.

  • Brush your teeth at least twice per day
  • Always use a soft-bristled toothbrush
  • Floss your teeth on a daily basis
  • Use mouthwash as a way to remove stubborn food particles after you brush and floss
  • Follow a healthy diet and limit overly sugary foods and drinks
  • Replace your toothbrush every three months
  • Schedule regular dental cleanings with your dentist
  • Avoid smoking and other tobacco use

If you feel you already have some kind of oral problem, do not hesitate to get in touch with your dentist so they can assess the problem. You don’t want to let these problems linger because they will only become worse and further affect your overall health and well-being.

Healthy Mouth and Healthy Body

Since there is a link between periodontitis and other systemic health problems, prevention is the key to maintaining your physical health. If you notice any of the following signs, you should make an appointment with your dentist immediately:

  • Sore, swollen, or bleeding gums
  • Gums that have begun to pull away from the teeth
  • Loose teeth or separating teeth
  • A change in your bite
  • Persistent bad breath

When discussing these conditions with your dentist, you also want to mention any other changes you have noticed in your overall health as well including any recent illness or chronic health conditions you may have experienced.

Don’t let your oral hygiene fall to the wayside, contact West LA Dentistry and make an appointment today for a healthy mouth and healthy body.