All posts by Alan Zabolian

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How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?

Restorative Dentistry,

Dental crowns are a dental restoration solution often used to save a severely decayed or damaged tooth from extraction. A crown is a cap that covers the top of the tooth to protect it from damage and restore its function and appearance. But how long do dental crowns last? In this article, we discuss the factors that can influence the lifespan of your crowns and give tips on how to prolong it.

 

How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?

Dental crowns can be made of several different materials, which will partially determine their longevity. Other factors that can influence how long your dental crowns will last include:

  • The efficiency of your oral hygiene
  • Your dietary habits
  • Your lifestyle habits
  • Presence of underlying oral health issues
  • Frequency of professional dental cleanings and checkups

Let us start by looking at the longevity and pros and cons of different materials used for making dental crowns.

 

Resin Composite Dental Crowns 

Resin composite is a versatile material commonly used in dentistry, for example, for dental fillings, veneers, and dental crowns. The advantages of this material are that it is tooth-colored, so it looks natural in the mouth, and it can be less expensive than some other options. 

However, resin composite is one of the less durable materials for dental crowns, with an average longevity of between 5 and 10 years.

 

Porcelain Dental Crowns

Porcelain is one of the most commonly used materials in dentistry. It offers a very natural look due to its slight translucency and remarkable durability. Porcelain dental crowns are typically more expensive than resin composite ones, but they can last for up to 15 years with good care. 

 

Metal Dental Crowns

Metal, such as silver amalgam or gold, is one of the strongest materials for dental crowns, with a potential longevity of up to 20 years or longer in some cases. However, nowadays, these materials are less popular because they are highly noticeable in the mouth. Gold or silver amalgam dental crowns are mainly used to treat teeth at the back of the mouth, which are not visible when you speak or smile.

 

Porcelain-fused-to-metal Dental Crowns

Porcelain-fused-to-metal dental crowns offer both the durability of a metal base and the natural appearance of porcelain. This option can last for 15 years or longer. However, porcelain that coats metal can wear off quickly. 

 

Zirconia Dental Crowns

Zirconia is another natural-looking material that can potentially be more durable than porcelain. They last for up to 15 years. However, zirconia crowns are often more expensive than other options.

 

Tips on Dental Crown Care to Prolong Its Lifespan

Regardless of the material your dental crown is made of, proper daily care is crucial for maintaining its shape over time. Here are some tips that can help you prolong the lifespan of your dental crown:

  • Remember that efficient and thorough oral hygiene should be your priority. Bacteria that live in plaque and tartar that accumulate in your mouth if it is not cleaned regularly are the biggest enemies of your oral health and your dental restorations. Dentists recommend brushing your teeth for two full minutes twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and flossing every evening. Also, try adding a water flosser as a first step of your routine (but keep in mind that it is not a replacement for traditional brushing and flossing.)
  • Visit your dentist twice a year for professional cleanings and checkups. This way, you will be able to identify any potential issues with your crowns and address them before they become serious problems.
  • Be mindful of what you eat: avoid sticky, hard, and crunchy foods, as they can chip, crack, dislodge, or scratch your crowns. Additionally, staining foods, such as red wine, coffee, tea, berries, beetroot, and curry, can cause discoloration of your crowns. We recommend avoiding these foods or brushing your teeth immediately after consuming them.
  • Protect your dental crowns from physical damage. Wear a mouthguard if you play contact or extreme sports, and avoid using your teeth as tools. Additionally, if you have bruxism, consider wearing a mouth guard at night and consult with your dentist to address the issue. 

 

Get a Long-Lasting Dental Crown at Samaritan Dental

Do not hesitate to make an appointment with an experienced dentist at the Samaritan Dental office today. At our clinic, we utilize high-quality dental crown materials that provide durability and reliability. Our specialists are looking forward to your visit.

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Do You Need to Wear a Mouthguard While Playing Sports?

General Dentistry,

Sports can be fun and have a profoundly beneficial impact on your overall health. But do you need to wear a mouthguard while playing sports? In this article, we discuss the benefits of mouthguards for both amateur sports lovers and professional athletes. 

 

Do You Need to Wear a Mouthguard While Playing Sports?

A mouthguard is a dental appliance typically made of ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) or other thermoplastic materials. It usually covers both the upper and lower arches of your teeth. The purpose of the mouthguard is to create a protective barrier for your teeth, gums, and jawbones and to absorb the force in the event of a facial impact. The main benefits of the mouthguard include:

  • A mouthguard protects you from facial bone fractures
  • A mouthguard protects your teeth from being broken, chipped, cracked, or knocked out 
  • A mouthguard lowers the risk of tooth root damage and blood vessel and soft tissue damage

Regardless of whether you are a professional athlete or play sports for fun, wearing a mouthguard during games, practice, and competition can benefit your oral health and prevent expensive and time-consuming treatments in the future. 

Most sports activities, especially extreme and contact sports, can result in falling or getting hit in the face. As a consequence, facial bone fractures are a common occurrence among athletes. Also, facial and oral traumas often lead to tooth root damage and blood vessel damage. Both types of injuries can result in tooth loss. These traumas can be especially inconvenient for those who need to train for competition, as the injury can put them out of commission for weeks. 

A mouthguard is specially designed to absorb the force from an impact to the face, thus preventing jawbone fractures. Additionally, a mouthguard creates a protective barrier for the teeth, preventing them from being broken, knocked out, cracked, or chipped. Thus, your mouthguard can eliminate the need for costly and complicated procedures, such as veneers or implants, in the future. 

 

How to Choose a Mouthguard

There are two main types of mouthguards you can choose from, depending on your budget and personal preferences:

 

Over-the-counter Mouthguards

Over-the-counter mouthguards are premade, meaning that they can be only minimally customizable, if at all. Boil-and-bite mouthguards can be adjusted to the shape of your jaw and teeth to some degree. Those worn straight out of the box, however, can not be adjusted in any way.

Premade over-the-counter mouthguards may not be the most comfortable solution, as they are designed for a general mouth and bite shape and may not accommodate your specific needs and oral anatomy. As a result, even though they will still perform their protective function, this protection will likely not be optimal.

Another disadvantage of over-the-counter mouthguards is that they can cause jaw stiffness or rub against the soft tissue in your mouth, leading to sores because they are not fitted perfectly to your mouth. 

That being said, wearing an over-the-counter mouthguard while playing sports is still preferable to having no protection at all. Over-the-counter mouthguards have the additional benefit of serving as a wallet-friendly option while you wait for a custom mouthguard to be manufactured.

 

Custom-made Mouthguards

A custom-made mouthguard is created using impressions of your teeth by a technician in a dental laboratory. Such a mouthguard fits in your mouth perfectly and provides an even distribution of force when an impact to the face occurs. Thus, a custom-made mouthguard provides more reliable protection than an over-the-counter option. Also, mouth sores, jaw stiffness, and other side effects of wearing a mouth guard are unlikely to occur when you opt for a custom-made option. 

To get a custom-made mouthguard, you will need to visit your dentist at least twice: one visit is to take impressions of your teeth, and the second visit is when your mouthguard is ready. Typically, it takes between one to two weeks for your custom-made mouthguard to be prepared. The time will depend on how busy the dental lab and the technician are. 

 

Get a Comfortable Custom-made Mouthguard at Samaritan Dental

Get a comfortable and reliable custom-made mouthguard that will protect your oral health while you enjoy your favorite sports activities. Schedule a consultation with an experienced dentist at Samaritan Dental today. We are looking forward to your visit to our dental office.

man checking wondering what does a cavity look like

What Does a Cavity Look Like?

General Dentistry, , , ,

Visiting the dentist is the surest way to identify a cavity. However, knowing how to do so at home can also come in useful. So you need to know: what does a cavity look like? Once you can identify cavities, you can make a point of scheduling your next dental appointment right away.

What Is a Cavity?

To spot a cavity, you need to first know what you are looking for. In short, a cavity is a small hole or portion of wear on a tooth. Healthy teeth will retain their enamel. But if you have sufficient tooth decay, it can eat away at your tooth. Over time, this progresses into an ever-increasing hole.

What Does a Cavity Look Like?

The short answer: not pretty. Their appearance can range from a subtle chalky appearance to highly visible discoloration. Their appearance shifts as they worsen, starting as mild discoloration and eventually turning into something more ominous.

Spotting Cavities in Early Stages

In the earliest stages, you might not be able to spot a cavity without special equipment. Cavities tend to start out as a white, chalky area on the tooth’s surface. This happens due to bacteria beginning to break down the enamel. Most patients easily notice these changes on their front teeth. However, molars may be more inconspicuous.

At this point, we consider this a pre-cavity. The process is called demineralization. At this point, a routine cleaning can help restore your teeth. We may also recommend a treatment to remineralize your affected tooth.

Stain Buildup or Cavity?

Sometimes, discoloration might just be a stain. In either case, we recommend a dental visit. If it is a stain, we could whiten or clean it. If it is a cavity, we can treat that and also restore your tooth’s appearance. Either way, you can leave the office with a brighter smile.

Spotting Cavities in Middle or Later Stages

After the bacteria gets through your enamel, it can start eating away at the tooth itself. This is where things begin to start looking pretty unpleasant. Though cavities start small, they can gradually grow into noticeable brown or black spots on a tooth. It can almost look a little “burnt”, with a darker center and a lighter border.

If you spot active tooth discoloration, it is time for an appointment. Otherwise, that bacteria will simply keep eating away at your tooth. If it goes too deep into the tooth, it can infect the pulp. When this happens, you could need a root canal or even a tooth extraction.

In very late stages, the entire tooth may have a caved-in appearance.

What If I Cannot See a Cavity?

The most insidious part of cavities is that they often can present with minimal symptoms. You might not notice any pain or even discoloration. This especially holds true for molars. Not many people give their molars a close inspection each day.

So cavities can progress to worse problems almost unannounced. This is why having dental exams is so important. Your dentist can use a special device to check for cavities on, around, and between your teeth.

They do not need to even see it. If the tool catches on a tooth, that is because there is a small cavity there. Even small cavities will eventually need treatment, as they can be too small for a toothbrush to clean. This means bacteria will simply continue to build up in there until it worsens.

Do Not Forget About X-rays

Another reason to rely on your dentist for spotting cavities is because they can take X-rays of your teeth. This safe imaging procedure is noninvasive and over in seconds. No pain at all. An X-ray can provide highly detailed images of each tooth, including where there is tooth decay. When tooth decay happens between your teeth, sometimes an X-ray is the only way to assess the situation.

Does a Cavity Smell Bad?

You might not even need to spot a cavity with your eyes. You might simply smell it. Or rather, people around you might. Cavities absolutely can cause bad breath. This happens because the bacteria within the cavity produce unique compounds as they break down food. These volatile sulfur compounds smell quite unpleasant.

The more bacteria in there, the more odor that will come out. Treating a cavity not only protects your tooth, but it can keep bad breath from bothering you and those around you.

DTLA’s Leading Dental Team

If you have a cavity, you want a top-tier dentist on your side. From routine care to complex procedures, we specialize in keeping DTLA smiling brightly.

 

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Does Medicare Cover Dental Implants?

Dental Implants,

Dental implants are artificial teeth that replace teeth that have fallen out or been extracted. They are designed to appear and feel indistinguishable from one’s real teeth, a quality that has made them a popular option for tooth replacement. Despite the clear benefits of dental implants, some prospective patients in the United States hesitate to undergo treatment because they worry about the cost. This has led many to the question: Does Medicare cover dental implants? We share the answer to this question below and offer more information about dental implants.

 

Pros and Cons of Dental Implants

It is essential that you understand the full scope of the dental prosthetic before receiving any work. This knowledge will help you determine if dental implants are the best option for restoring your teeth. The pros of dental implants include the following:

  • Appear more natural than many other dental prosthetics
  • Restore your chewing and speaking functions
  • Prevent neighboring teeth from changing position
  • Do not get cavities
  • Can last for several years

Many patients find that dental implants represent a low-stress way to replace a missing tooth. However, some of the downsides of the dental implant procedure include:

  • Require oral surgery to install
  • May take several months to install from start to finish
  • Can be more costly than alternatives, such as dental bridges
  • Are not typically covered by insurance
  • Are not usually appropriate for children

 

How Much Does a Dental Implant Cost?

After determining that dental implants are the tooth replacement option you want to pursue, you need to consider how you will cover the cost of the procedure.

If you are paying out of pocket for your dental implants, they can be quite expensive. Some estimates find that the cost of replacing a single tooth can range from $ 3,000 to $ 5,000, while replacing multiple teeth increases the cost even higher.

As a result, many patients turn to their insurance provider to help cover some of the costs associated with the procedure. However, this part of the process can be a challenge if not approached correctly.

 

Does Medicare Cover Dental Implants?

Unfortunately, most Medicare plans do not cover the cost of dental implants. However, individuals who are covered under the Advanced Medicare Plan C can sometimes have their procedures covered because Plan C includes dental benefits. 

In addition, there is some possibility that you can convince your Medicare Plan A or B provider to support your dental implant procedure if you can convince them that there is some level of medical necessity for the procedure. Often, you can have your dentist or primary healthcare provider write a note stating that your procedure is medically necessary to some extent.

 

How Much Does Medicare Dental Coverage Cost?

Individuals looking to upgrade their Medicare coverage to include dental may not have to pay much more per month. In some cases, they may not have to pay anything additional at all. Much of this will have to do with the state in which you are receiving health insurance. 

Additionally, many individuals who qualify for low-income Medicare health insurance may already find that dental coverage is included in their healthcare package. In addition, even individuals who do not prequalify for this will find that the increase in their monthly payment is only about $30 at most. 

 

Dental Implants in LA

Samaritan Dental proudly offers the best in dental care to patients in Los Angeles. If you would like to receive dental implants and excellent dental care from a dentist with years of experience, contact us today to schedule an appointment.

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Are Tooth Fillings Painful?

General Dentistry,

When people even hear the word “filling,” it’s not at all unusual for them to get a little bit nervous. It brings to mind loud noises, hours spent in the chair, and, of course, the big question: Are tooth fillings painful? This is one of the most common concerns patients tend to have when facing the need for restorative dental work, and we totally get it! It’s okay to be anxious about dental procedures. But knowledge really is power, and knowing what to expect can turn a nerve-wracking experience into a more manageable one. 

Let’s walk through what really happens during a filling, how much discomfort (if any) you can expect, and how the dentists at Samaritan Dental Arts make the whole experience a lot more comfortable than you might think.

 

So, Are Tooth Fillings Painful? 

Here’s the good news right out of the gate: No, getting a tooth filled is not typically painful. Thanks to modern techniques and advanced numbing options, most patients report feeling little to no discomfort during the process. In fact, the discomfort you’re likely experiencing from a cavity beforehand is probably more unpleasant than the dental filling itself! Many patients are surprised by how quick and easy the procedure actually is, often walking out of the office wondering why they were ever nervous to begin with.

At Samaritan Dental, we prioritize patient comfort. Before the procedure even begins, your dentist will carefully numb the area surrounding the affected tooth using local anesthesia. Once that’s in effect, you shouldn’t feel any pain, just some light pressure and vibrations from the tools your dentist is using. That’s it. No sharp stabs, no unbearable sensations.

 

What If I’m Nervous About the Numbing Shot? 

If you’re one of those people who gets nervous about needles (and let’s be honest, there are a lot of us), this part might seem like a bigger hurdle than the filling itself. But rest assured: the numbing shot itself is done quickly, and most people describe it as a mild pinch at worst. Your dentist can even apply a numbing gel beforehand to make the shot itself more comfortable for you. 

If dental anxiety is something that really affects you and is holding you back from treatment, we’re always happy to talk about comfort options ahead of your appointment. Here, communication is key. Letting your dentist know how you’re feeling can help make the experience as stress-free as possible. 

 

Will It Hurt After the Filling Is Done? 

This is another question we get a lot, and the answer depends a bit on how sensitive your mouth is and the size of the filling. It’s normal to feel a little soreness or tenderness around the filled tooth once the numbing wears off, especially if the cavity is deep. That said, this post-treatment discomfort is usually mild and short-lived, disappearing after a day or two. 

You might also feel a little sensitivity to hot or cold foods for a short while. Again, this is completely normal and tends to go away quickly. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen are usually more than enough to manage any lingering aches.

 

Can Fillings Be Done Without Numbing? 

If you’ve got a very small cavity or just need shallow surface repairs, then you may not require any numbing at all. This depends on the location of the cavity, the level of decay, and your pain tolerance. If you’re interested in this option, your dentist will evaluate your specific case and let you know what’s possible. 

 

Why Waiting Can Actually Increase Your Pain Risk

Ironically, the longer you wait to get a filling, the more likely your procedure will hurt. This isn’t because the filling itself is painful, but because the untreated cavity can grow deeper and more serious. When decay reaches the inner layers of your tooth, you may need more intensive procedures like a root canal. This procedure involves more time, more complexity, and, yes, potentially more discomfort. 

 

Choosing a Dentist Who Puts You First Can Minimize Your Pain Risk

When it comes to pain risk, where you go matters. Here at Samaritan Dental, we focus on gentle, precise care that meets you where you are—whether you’re just a little nervous or full-on anxious about the process. Our skilled team is here to walk you through each step, using modern tools and compassionate care to make your visit as comfortable as possible. Call Samaritan Dental today to schedule your consultation and experience stress-free dental care that puts your comfort first.

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Can a Cavity Cause Jaw Pain?

General Dentistry,

Cavities, otherwise known as dental caries, are one of the most common dental problems around the world and one of the most common reasons people visit a dentist. Cavities develop when the acids produced by bacteria in plaque erode the enamel of your teeth. People usually associate cavities with tooth sensitivity and tooth pain. But can a cavity cause jaw pain as well? Continue reading to learn about the intricate connection between cavities and jaw pain.

 

Can a Cavity Cause Jaw Pain?

A cavity is a damaged area in the hard surface of your teeth. These areas become tiny holes that can cause extreme pain, infection, and tooth loss. Cavities start as small areas of enamel demineralization. If not addressed in a timely manner, the cavity progresses to the dentin and the pulp. When the cavity reaches the pulp, it can cause significant pain and discomfort because the pulp contains nerves and blood vessels.

So the question is, will this pain travel to the jaw? To answer this, one must understand the anatomy of the teeth and their relationship with the jaw.

 

The Link Between Cavities and Jaw Pain

Nerve Irritation

Each one of your teeth is connected to the jawbone by the nerves that run through the roots of your tooth and into the jaw. When a cavity reaches the pulp, the nerves of the tooth will become irritated and inflamed. This pain can then radiate to the jaw and its surrounding areas.

 

Infection and Abscesses

Without treatment, bacteria in the cavity can infiltrate the pulp and cause an infection. This infection can spread to the surrounding tissues, including the jawbone, and create a dental abscess, a pocket of pus that forms as a result of bacterial infection. Abscesses cause intense throbbing pain in the affected tooth, gums, and jaw.

 

Referred Pain

Because the nerves in your mouth are interconnected, inflammation in one area can send pain signals in another. This is why pain from a cavity may not be localized to that tooth but is “referred” to other areas of the face or jaw.

 

Bruxism or Teeth Grinding

Cavities can cause a misaligned or uneven bite, which can lead to unknowingly and unintentionally grinding teeth. This grinding is known as bruxism. It can occur while one is awake or asleep and stresses the jaw muscles and joints, eventually leading to pain and discomfort.

 

Temporomandibular Joint Involvement

The temporomandibular joint connects the jawbone to the skull. You have two temporomandibular joints, one on each side of the jaw. Severe tooth pain or infection can affect your jaw movement. In turn, this restricted movement may strain the temporomandibular joint and cause jaw pain, stiffness, and even headaches.

 

Symptoms to Watch For

You may notice some of the following symptoms when you have a cavity and are experiencing jaw pain.

  • Persistent, dull, or sharp toothache
  • Painful biting or chewing
  • Swelling in the jaw or gums
  • Tooth sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks
  • An unpleasant taste in the mouth (a sign of an abscess)
  • Difficulty opening and closing your mouth

If these symptoms persist or worsen, or if jaw pain is accompanied by swelling or fever, immediately visit your dentist for proper treatment.

 

How to Prevent Jaw Pain from Cavities

The best way to avoid cavity-related jaw pain is to practice good dental hygiene and visit your dentist regularly. Follow the tips below to protect yourself from cavities and ensure your oral health.

Brush and Floss Regularly: If you cannot brush after every meal, at least brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste. Do not go to sleep without having brushed your teeth.  Floss once or twice daily to prevent plaque buildup, tooth decay, and cavities.

Use Mouthwash: A good antibacterial mouthwash can help reduce plaque and kill harmful bacteria.

Maintain a Healthy Diet: Avoid sugary and acidic foods. Eat foods rich in calcium and vitamins to strengthen your teeth.

Visit Your Dentist Regularly: Regular dental checkups and cleanings can ensure your teeth are healthy and free from plaque buildup. Your dentist can also catch dental issues early on and address them before they become full-blown problems.

 

Consult a Dentist in Los Angeles

Cavities can cause jaw pain, especially if the decay has reached the deeper layers of the tooth or if an infection is present. By practicing good oral hygiene, regularly visiting your dentist, and promptly addressing tooth pain, you can protect your teeth and prevent cavity-related jaw pain from disrupting your daily life.

Whether your tooth pain is accompanied by jaw pain or not, a reputable dentist can help you manage your pain and address the problem. Schedule a consultation with Samaritan Dental today to relieve your dental pain.

concept for cavities between two teeth

How to Know If You Have a Cavity Between Two Teeth

General Dentistry, ,

Cavities are one of the most common oral health issues. In fact, around ninety percent of adults between the ages of 20 and 54 have had tooth decay in their teeth. Cavities can impact any part of your teeth, including the visible surface or between your teeth. Cavities between your teeth can be a little harder to detect. However, there are several signs that indicate the presence of cavities. Below, you will find out how to know if you have a cavity between two teeth.

How to Know If You Have a Cavity Between Two Teeth

Cavities are often associated with several symptoms. If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your dentist right away. Early detection and treatment are key if you have cavities. It can reduce the risk of further damage to your oral health. Consider the following symptoms that indicate you may have a cavity between your teeth.

Pain or Discomfort

Pain or discomfort when you are biting down on or chewing food is an indication of trouble. It could mean that you have a cavity between your teeth. The pressure from biting and chewing can aggravate the area around the cavity. The pain can vary in severity. It can also feel dull or sharp. Tooth pain can indicate cavities or worse, so it is important to contact a dentist right away.

Temperature Sensitivity

Temperature sensitivity is a common symptom of cavities. It is an early symptom, so heading to the dentist right away is helpful. You may notice sensitivity when you consume hot or cold foods or beverages. However, you may also notice sensitivity when you eat sugary foods. The pain is often sudden and sharp. Sensitivity can also be a sign of more serious oral health conditions. Because of this, it’s advisable to schedule a dental appointment right away.

Bleeding Gums

Bleeding or irritated gums are a sign of cavities between your teeth. However, issues with your gums also indicate more advanced oral health issues. One of the more common oral health issues is gum disease. This can lead to serious oral health issues, including tooth loss in severe cases. If you notice bleeding, inflammation, or sensitivity around your gums, it is necessary to get it treated right away. Avoid irritating the area, as it can cause discomfort.

Visible Spots or Stains

Cavities in between your teeth are harder to see. However, you may notice stains or dark spots in between your teeth. These are often black or brown in color. You may also notice greyish shadows. If you notice anything in between your teeth that cannot be removed with flossing, it is time to go to the dentist. Cavities between your teeth can cause serious damage to your oral health.

Cavity Diagnosis and Treatment

If you experience any of the symptoms associated with cavities, schedule an appointment with the dentist. They can effectively diagnose the issue to determine if you have cavities or any other oral health issues. Cavities are diagnosed using a combination of diagnostic tools. These include X-rays, a visual exam, or a floss test. If you just have a cavity, it can be easily addressed in the same appointment in many cases.

The most common treatment for cavities includes fillings. More extensive cavities or more serious oral health issues may require different treatment. This includes crowns or a root canal. This is why early intervention is essential. You can easily avoid more aggressive treatment options if you address cavities early on. If you are concerned you may have a cavity, contact the team at Samaritan Dental Arts to schedule an appointment today!

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How to Avoid Dental Emergencies

Dental Emergencies, ,

Emergency dental care is required when you experience acute pain, gum bleeding, or have got into an accident resulting in broken teeth. In this article, we discuss how to avoid dental emergencies.

How to Avoid Dental Emergencies

Dental emergencies can be typically divided into two main categories: those caused by infection and those caused by accidents.

Dental Emergencies Caused by Infection

Infection can spread in the mouth very quickly and cause devious issues requiring emergency care. In most cases, oral infections are caused by insufficient efforts put towards your dental care. Below, we list the main tips that will help you avoid dental emergencies.

Brush Your Teeth Effectively

Dentists insist that we should brush our teeth for at least two minutes twice a day. Make sure to clean all the areas in your mouth, especially at the back, where it is harder to reach. Also, special attention should be paid to cleaning along the gum line so that plaque does not collect in periodontal pockets. Use a fluoride toothpaste, as this mineral is proven to be effective at preventing cavities.

Floss Every Day

Flossing is another critical step of your oral hygiene routine, as in many cases, you can not remove all food particles and plaque from your teeth with just a toothbrush. It is best if you floss in the evening before bed to make sure no food residue and bacteria linger between your teeth during the night when the bacteria are most active in your mouth.

To floss effectively, move the thread gently between the teeth, making sure to clean each tooth from both sides. Try to avoid damaging the gums with the tread. If using regular floss is challenging, you can try using special floss threaders and interdental brushes.

Add a Water Flosser to Your Routine

A water flosser can not replace a traditional toothbrush or floss. Still, it is proven to be very effective as an additional step in your routine, especially in gum disease prevention and treatment.

Get Professional Dental Cleanings

Even patients who are the most diligent with their hygiene routine need professional dental cleanings every 6 to 12 months. Most of us have areas in the mouth that are hard to reach. The problem is especially noticeable in those having crooked or overcrowded teeth. Plaque accumulates in such areas and turns into tartar over time.

Bacteria living in plaque and tartar cause tooth decay and gum disease—issues that both can lead to dental emergencies. Thus, by getting professional cleanings according to the recommended schedule, you can avoid these issues.

On top of that, you can get fluoride treatments after each cleaning that will significantly strengthen the enamel of your teeth and make them more resistant to bacteria and decay.

Undergo Checkups at Your Dental Office

Bi-yearly checkups that go hand in hand with professional dental cleanings will ensure that all the issues are addressed before they turn into severe problems and dental emergencies.

Address Existing Issues On Time

Never put off dental visits and treatment if you know or suspect you have a problem. Some people think that a small cavity does not require immediate care. However, a minor cavity can very quickly become severe tooth decay, requiring more complex treatments, such as root canal or even tooth extraction. In fact, most dental emergencies are caused by minor issues that are not addressed in time.

Choose a Reliable Dentist

Some dental emergencies can come about from an improperly performed procedure. Even such a simple procedure as a dental filling can fail and cause severe consequences. Make sure you check the credentials and reviews of your dental specialist before undergoing any procedures.

Dental Emergencies Caused by Accidents

Dental emergencies caused by accidents include:

  • Chipped, cracked, or broken teeth
  • Dislodged teeth
  • Knocked out teeth
  • Broken or dislocated jaw
  • Blood vessel damage within the gums or tooth root damage

A lot of such dental emergencies happen while playing sports, especially extreme or contact sports, or engaging in similar activities. One of the main preventive measures is to wear a mouthguard. It can absorb and soften the impact on the teeth, thus preventing damage.

You can buy a mouthguard at a local drugstore without a prescription. However, over-the-counter mouthguards might feel uncomfortable to wear, as they best suit an average jaw and teeth. We recommend getting a custom-made mouthguard from a dental office. This way, you will not experience discomfort wearing it and will most likely wear it more often as a result.

Call Us if You Have a Dental Emergency

If you experience an acute toothache or have had an accident, do not hesitate to call an emergency dentist at Samaritan Dental. We are looking forward to helping you restore your oral health.

concept for how to prepare for your childs first dental appointment

How to Prepare for Your Child’s First Dental Appointment

Pediatric Dentistry, ,

Pediatric dental care is an essential part of your child’s health care routine. However, it is notoriously hard to keep a child calm at a dental office. In this article, we discuss how to prepare for your child’s first dental appointment so that it is successful and productive.

How to Prepare for Your Child’s First Dental Appointment

Visiting a dentist with a child might be challenging. Children can be naturally worried or anxious about new people, especially when it comes to invasive procedures. Thus, it is important you prepare your child for their dental appointment. This way, you can help your child feel calmer and less scared and have a more productive and quick visit overall.

Another reason to prepare your child for their dental appointment ahead of time is to help them feel safe and secure during the procedure. The lack of negative emotions during their first dental visit will help them develop a positive attitude towards visiting a dentist and form good dental habits for life. Children who have a very negative first dental visit experience might form dental anxiety that will turn all future visits into an ordeal.

To make sure that the child is prepared for their first dental visit, you can explore several tactics:

Explain to Your Child What the Visit Is for

Use simple child-friendly words to explain to your child the purpose of the visit and what the doctor is going to do. We all fear the unknown, and having some information and understanding of the procedure in advance can help your child feel more prepared and calmer.

Play Games

Try using toys to role-play a dental visit. You can switch roles with your child and have them pretend to be both a patient and a doctor. This way, you can help your child familiarize themselves with the procedure and make them feel more optimistic about it.

Read Educational Books with Your Child

There are many picture books about dental visits available on the market. Pick a couple that look nice and friendly and read them with your child before the appointment. Seeing sweet and relatable characters going through the same experience will help your child feel more assured.

Use Positive Reinforcement

Avoid scolding your child for not wanting to go to the dentist or being capricious. Also, never threaten your child with a dental visit in case they refuse to brush their teeth or eat too many sweets. Such tactics will only make your child more anxious.

Instead, show your child that you have a positive attitude towards dental visits, tell them about the help dentists provide, or share stories about your good experiences. You can also praise your child for being brave and going to the dentist.

Promise Your Child a Reward

Schedule something fun to do with your child after you visit the dental office, or promise them a reward. This way, your child will have something to look forward to, which will motivate them to go through the appointment and not feel like they are being tortured without a reason.

Take Your Child’s Favorite Toy to the Office

Contact your dental office in advance and ask if you can bring a toy to the office. Typically, your dentist will allow it or have some toys in the office to help calm the child. Having their favorite plush friend near might significantly calm your child’s anxiety.

Stay Calm

Children tend to reflect the feelings and behavior of their parents, so it is essential that you stay calm, composed, and positive. Feeling your assurance, the child will feel safer, too, and thus less anxious about the visit.

Choose the Right Pediatric Dentist

Choosing a reliable and friendly pediatric dentist is vital when it comes to having a successful dental appointment with your child. Pediatric dentists are specialists specially trained to work with kids and know what language, gestures, and techniques to use to have a child feel safe and stay optimistic. Going to a dentist who knows how to work with kids will also ensure that the visit is productive and efficient and all the required procedures are done so you do not have to pay for a second appointment to finish the job.

Make an Appointment Today

Do not hesitate to call our pediatric dental office in Los Angeles today and make an appointment with a friendly family dentist. Our specialists strive to provide a stress-free environment for patients of all ages. We are looking forward to welcoming you and your family to Samaritan Dental.

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The Importance of Regular Dental Checkups

General Dentistry,

Any reliable general and cosmetic dentist in Los Angeles will stress the importance of preventive dentistry. In fact, a good doctor will always encourage you to undergo by-yearly checkups and professional cleanings to help you avoid costly and complicated procedures. But why is preventive dentistry so crucial? In this article, we discuss the importance of regular dental checkups and cleanings.

 

The Importance of Regular Dental Checkups

We all know that brushing and flossing teeth twice a day is essential for our oral health. However, more is needed, even for people who are very dedicated to their dental hygiene at home. The reason for this is that we all have hard-to-reach areas in the mouth that usually need to be cleaned more thoroughly. The issue is even more significant for people who have misaligned or crooked teeth. Food residue and bacteria linger in those crevices, turning into plaque and tartar over time—the leading causes of cavities and gum disease.

Regular dental checkups can help you maintain good oral health in several ways:

 

Dental Checkups Prevent Serious Oral and General Health Issues

Small cavities can be painless and often do not signal their arrival. As a result, you might not notice the moment when a simple cavity turns into severe tooth decay. Often, tooth decay needs complicated treatments such as root canal therapy. Also, if tooth decay is left untreated for a long time, it can lead to tooth loss or infect the surrounding teeth. In addition, the infection can spread to the gum tissue and the jawbone and result in periodontal disease, which is difficult and time-consuming to treat.

Furthermore, infections in the mouth are closely associated with illnesses of other organs in the body. For example, gum disease can lead to heart, lung, and joint issues. It also can cause changes in the blood sugar levels. Oral infections can harm the gastrointestinal system and even impede cognitive function. 

If you visit a dental office every six months, your doctor will be able to spot any small cavities or other potential issues and offer you a plan of treatment right away. Treating a cavity with a dental filling is also quicker and cheaper than treating severe tooth decay. What is more, having a healthy mouth at all times will help boost the health of your whole body, your energy levels, and your quality of life.

 

Dental Checkups Can Include Professional Dental Cleanings

Dental checkups are often combined with professional cleanings that are necessary to maintain the perfect condition of your teeth. Your dentist uses professional instruments to effectively remove plaque and tartar (which can not be removed with a toothbrush at home) from all areas of the mouth, even those that are hard to reach. Thus, professional cleanings prevent cavities, decay, and gum disease. In addition, by undergoing cleanings every six months, you can prevent plaque on your teeth from hardening and turning to tartar.

You can also opt for a fluoride treatment as a part of your dental cleaning. Fluoride effectively remineralizes the teeth, strengthens the enamel, and makes your teeth move resistant to harmful bacteria, further preventing cavities.

Also, by regularly cleaning your teeth at a dental office, you can boost the effectiveness of fluoride toothpaste you use at home since there will not be a film on your teeth that prevents the ingredient from penetrating the enamel.

 

Regular Dental Checkups and Cleanings Save Money in the Long Run

Treating teeth with severe issues can be expensive. For example, the cost of a root canal treatment is approximately 1500 to 2000 dollars without insurance. The price of replacing a decayed tooth with a dental implant can be as much as 5000 dollars. Gum disease treatments can include multiple costly procedures and end up costing a small fortune.

In addition, in many cases, dental insurance only covers part of the price of major procedures, typically only 50 percent. On the other hand, most dental insurance policies cover the total price of preventive procedures, such as checkups and cleaning. Even if you pay for these procedures out of pocket, they will be much cheaper than any complicated, multi-step treatments.

 

Make an Appointment Today

At Samaritan Dental, we provide student discounts for dental care. Do not hesitate to call our office and make an appointment for a dental checkup and a professional cleaning today. We look forward to welcoming you to our dental office.