All posts by Alan Zabolian

Portrait of happy young woman in swimsuit and beach hat

The Best Teeth Whitening for a Perfect Smile

Teeth Whitening

Portrait of happy young woman in swimsuit and beach hat

Nothing makes a lasting first impression like a dazzling smile. Unfortunately, as the years pass and cups of coffee come and go, many bright smiles simply aren’t what they used to be. Even mild discoloration or fading can cause unnecessary self-consciousness regarding one’s appearance. Whether it affects your confidence meeting new people or the way you smile for a photo, the quality of a beaming grin goes a long way. The state of dental hygiene has come a long way and fortunately for you, has delivered some of the best teeth whitening techniques available to help you smile like you mean it.

What You Can Do for a Whiter Smile

Good dental hygiene starts with you at home. It doesn’t matter if it is before you undergo whitening treatment or after, the path to long-lasting white teeth can be maintained by utilizing a few key habits.

Dairy Products

Good news for yogurt lovers, high-calcium foods provide the nutrients your pearly whites need to stay strong and bright on a daily basis. In addition to calcium foods like cheese, milk, and yogurt contain lactic acid which shield your teeth from damaging decay. Hard cheeses also help remove food particles from your teeth, promoting a healthier smile.
Other helpful smile shiners include:

● Strawberries
● Crunchy Produce (apples, carrots, celery)
● Pears
● Pineapples
● Water

Whitening Toothpaste

In between dentist visits, the right toothpaste can give you added protection against fading and staining. Whether it’s Crest, Colgate, or an off-brand, finding an effective, fluoride-filled toothpaste can aid you in gently cleansing your teeth, lessening stains, and keeping your mouth feeling fresh.

Take Care of Your Enamel

Tooth enamel is the naturally hardened tissue that protects your teeth from corrosion-causing substances. Considering enamel is not made up of living cells, it does not repair itself like other parts of the body. This is why it is paramount to take care of this natural, biological shield. The fluoride found in toothpaste is an effective way to combat certain acidic foods, however you should also be aware of substances to avoid if you are interested in keeping that smile white:

● Tobacco
● Coffee
● Soda
● Red Wine
● Extra Sugary Foods

A Superior Whitening

If you are sick and tired of purchasing expensive over-the-counter whitening products at your pharmacy, it may be time to explore a higher caliber of teeth whitening. Too many times, these over-the-counter products offer disappointing results at a price tag that makes you wince almost as bad as the tooth sensitivity that comes with them. Luckily, Samaritan Dental Arts are experts in delivering high quality and long-lasting results with the best teeth whitening treatments available.

Bleaching

This quick and easy tooth whitening treatment takes about 2 hours and can be done in-office. A light-accelerated bleaching method is used for a faster and more effective whitening that has proven to deliver safe and dramatically noticeable results.

Whitening Kits

This 10-tray pack contains a powerful whitening agent that only needs to be applied 30 minutes a day. Depending on your condition, the process is repeated for about 3-4 days. Remaining trays can even be refrigerated for preserved touch ups to be used at a later time. Refreshing your smile as never been this easy.

Choosing the Right Dental Care

Led by Dr. Alan Zabolian, Samaritan Dental Arts pledges to gift patients with the smile they want and deserve. With years of experience in cosmetic dentistry and several treatments at our disposal, we are more than equipped and willing to give you a smile you’ll be proud to show off. Contact our dental care office today to schedule a consultation and learn about the best teeth whitening treatments available to you.

Closeup on young woman's teeth while she is flossing

How to Avoid Cavities

Preventive Dentistry

Floss-daily-for-healthy-teeth-and-gums

According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, 92% of adults have some form of tooth decay. Tooth decay is the leading cause of cavities. Cavities are often times one of people’s greatest fears, and for good reason. Sitting down in the dentist’s chair after a checkup and hearing them utter that dreaded word is often times enough to make you regret that late night snack you indulged the night before. Once this hits home, your mind goes straight to all of the time that will need to be spent in the dentist’s chair treating your cavity problem. Did you know there are a few tips that can prevent this situation from happening in the first place, by teaching you how to avoid cavities? These plaque-fighting tips will keep your teeth as healthy and clean as they need to be.

Regular Brushing & Flossing

The number one tip across the board is to brush and floss every day. A thorough brushing twice a day can circumvent all of the less favorable choices you’ve made throughout the day. Some may even want to go the extra mile and brush their teeth after every meal. Flossing should be done at least once a day to ensure a healthy set of teeth and gums. Toothpaste or mouthwash containing fluoride is another preferred choice of dental weaponry to fight off cavities and keep your smile strong.

Avoid the Bad Foods

Some of the most harmful, cavity-inducing substances are most people’s favorite foods and treats. Snacks like candy and other sweets top the list with their sticky attributes. Most sugary delights will linger in the mouth and stick around long after the treat is finished. Soft foods like bread can stick around your mouth until it’s time to brush your teeth. Drinking soda or juice is like sending a sugary wave to coat your teeth as it slowly wears down your tooth enamel.

Cavity Friendly Treats

If you are asking yourself how to avoid cavities but still enjoy a treat every now and then, you’re in luck. Believe it or not, there are certain foods that can help prevent cavities. Cheese has been found to revitalize the protein and calcium levels in teeth as it breaks down and is infused with the saliva. Sugar-free gum contains Xylitol, a natural sweetener, that helps fight bacteria and can reduce tooth decay. Fruits and vegetables high in fiber can cause the mouth to produce saliva that will give your teeth a proper cleaning. Seafood is another great option that is not only high in protein, but contains fluoride which can reduce your risk of tooth decay. Nuts are high in fiber and require extensive chewing which produces excess saliva that is able clean your teeth of any unwanted cavity producing foods.

Preventative Dentistry

Keeping your mouth healthy is key. Preventive dentistry is as simple as going to regular dentist appointments. A visit to your dentist will keep cavities at bay, reduce enamel wear, prevent gum disease and other dental health problems. Taking care of your oral health can help prevent future problems. Dentists are able to use x-rays to produce high resolution imaging that is able to discover dental problems that may have been previously hidden for months. Dentists are able to recommend and treat with sealants that will protect your teeth from tooth decay and cavities. Routine cleanings will also blast through any pesky plaque and stains to keep your smile bright throughout the year.

 

Book your next dental appointment with Dr. Zabolian to make sure your mouth is cavity-free.

How to Maintain Healthy Teeth and Gums

Preventive Dentistry

Preventative Dentistry

We all know that saying, “an apple a day keeps the doctor away”, well an apple does have lots of great health benefits for your body and your teeth, but it’s not a miracle worker! Maintaining healthy teeth and gums requires not only proper eating habits but most importantly proper oral hygiene habits. Here are a few tips on ways you can take care of those sparkly whites.

Brush and Floss

Of course you need to brush and floss, how else are you going to get rid of stubborn bacteria and plaque? Brushing at least twice a day is recommended, but if you can brush after every meal, even better. As for flossing, this should be done once a day to remove unwanted plaque from between your teeth and promote optimal oral health.

Eat Tooth Cleaning Foods

Eating an apple, raw carrots, celery, and even unsweetened popcorn can have amazing tooth cleaning abilities. For the best possible results, eat one of these foods towards the end of your meal, they are a great toothbrush substitute when you can’t get to the real thing.

Use a Straw

We all do it, we know we’re not suppose to but there we are drinking our usual cup of coffee or dark carbonated beverage. These types of pigmented beverages, although delicious, have a powerful staining ability. Consuming them too often can turn your teeth an unsightly yellow and can lead to teeth decay. Limit your intake and always use a straw to limit the contact your teeth will have with your beverage.

Regular Check-ups

The most important step that many tend to “forget” is regular checkups! The best way to maintain healthy teeth is to meet with your dentist and prevent any issues from forming. Your dentist can provide preventative dentistry and address any issues you may have early!

Contact Samaritan Dental Arts today to schedule your check up appointment. Brushing and flossing are not enough to maintain a healthy smile, you only get one set of permanent teeth; let’s take care of them now!

Top 3 Reasons to Use Invisalign

Cosmetic Dentistry, Invisalign,

dental invisalign edit

Many people, especially adults, may have given up their hopes for a straighter smile because they don’t want to be wearing traditional metal braces. For the past decade, there has been an alternative method of straightening teeth, called Invisalign. Now most people associate these teeth liners as an expensive chore but this article will shed light on the reasons why you should consider Invisalign as your go-to procedure for straighter teeth.

Cosmetics

Cosmetics is a major factor as to why people choose to wear Invisalign. People are drawn to Invisalign because of the cosmetic factor. The clear, custom aligners can straighten teeth and can improve the look of a person’s smile. The aligners are barely noticeable, and it can give teens and adults more confidence knowing that people will not be distracted by their teeth straightening system. Additionally, the aligners can easily be removed for special occasions.

Comfort

The smooth, plastic custom aligners cause less pain and discomfort than metal wires and brackets. Metal braces put a lot of pressure on teeth, gums, and the jaw. Once the person gets used to wearing the aligners, they are usually painless. Choosing Invisalign also means fewer trips to the dentist. Traditionally, with metal braces, it is a trip to the dentist every four to six weeks. With Invisalign, it is the patient who can change their device every two weeks or so. Of course, if the patient is unsure how well they can complete this they are recommended to schedule an appointment with their orthodontist.

Oral Health

The Invisalign trays are removable. The trays can be taken out to eat, floss, and brush teeth without compromising the outcome of straightening. With metal braces, a person needs to be strict with their oral care habits since food particles can become attached to the brackets and wires. Another plus is that a person does not have to give up their favorite foods when they opt for Invisalign.

How Do I Get Invisalign Today?

Selecting Invisalign to straighten your teeth is an important decision and that is why we would like you to take the time to become familiar with our system. Make the call to our Invisalign specialist to have all of your questions answered and say goodbye to crooked teeth for good.

 

Benefits of Dental Implants

Dental Implants

dental implants in los angels

People often turn to dental implants first when faced with a patient wishing to restore damaged or missing teeth. Dental implants in Los Angeles are replacement tooth roots that provide a strong foundation for temporary or permanent replacement teeth. There are several advantages such as:

Dental implants are made to match your natural teeth. They are strong and stable enough to feel like, fit and function as actual teeth. Unlike other options, dental implants will not lead to jawbone deterioration which may affect eating and smiling. Implants preserve and strengthen natural bone. Dental implants also allow patients to keep the shape of their face, jawline and smile.

Dental implants are durable. They eliminate the embarrassment of having to
removing them or readjusting them after you eat. They become part of your natural teeth with the ability to eat whatever you like. Unlike dental bridges, which are also used to replace missing teeth, dental implants can last a lifetime if they are properly cared for.

Dental implants do not interfere with daily life. They allow individuals to continue eating all their favorite foods and pronouncing everyday words easily. Unlike dentures, dental implants will not fall out or loosen when talking, eating or laughing. According to the American Academy of Periodontology, an extra bonus of having dental implants is that cavities cannot occur in a replacement tooth.

Care for dental implants is also simple as individuals with implants should care for them like normal teeth with daily brushing and flossing.Get your long-term implants at Samaritan Dental Arts today for a healthy and confident smile.

 

Smile! The Holiday Season Is Approaching

Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Veneers, Teeth Whitening,

It May Be Time to Visit the Dentist Los Angeles

When was the last time you visited the  dentist Los Angeles? The holiday season is quickly approaching. Many people get anxiety during this time of the year because they are embarrassed about their smile. Most people will spend the holiday season rushing to different events and gatherings with family, friends, and co-workers. The anxiety and fear comes from having to talk with people and take many photos. Talking and taking pictures sounds simple but when you are someone who does not feel comfortable with your teeth, the holidays can be a nightmare.

 

What Procedures Can Help Get Your Smile Ready?

 

Start by researching dental care downtown LA. Downtown Los Angeles dentist and cosmetic dentist Los Angeles offer a wide variety of services that can dramatically improve a patient’s smile as well as boost their confidence. Having a healthy mouth and teeth can benefit people in a variety of ways. Oral health can lead to improved breath as well as a more pleasing smile.

Patients can choose veneers Los Angeles to create a gorgeous smile that brightens any room. Veneers are thin overlays that are placed on the teeth to cosmetically enhance the appearance of teeth. Veneers can alter the shape, size, and color of teeth to create that perfect smile. Veneers can also be a healthy choice to prevent further tooth decay.

Dental crowns are another alternative for patients who have damaged teeth for numerous reasons. Dental crowns can improve the function and look of the teeth. Dental crowns can provide a natural-looking smile while also strengthening, protecting, and restoring impacted teeth.

Teeth whitening Downtown LA is a wonderful option for patients who have structurally pleasing teeth but could use some help brightening their smile. Teeth whitening is done on an individualized basis, meaning that you and your dentist can determine the best approach for the best results. Cosmetic dentist Los Angeles can work with patients to achieve results that are pleasing and natural.

Cosmetic dentistry has come a long way in recent times. It is more popular than ever. It is not just the movie stars that are investing in their smiles. Many people are choosing cosmetic dentistry procedures to improve their smile. The holidays are just around the corner so it is important to connect with a dentist today and get started on improving your smile. WebMD reminds people to do their research when choosing a dentist and make sure they are clear on costs, healing time, and the details of the procedure including any future maintenance that may be necessary.

 

Get In Contact with a Cosmetic Dentistry Downtown Los Angeles

 

For more information, contact a well-respected Downtown Los Angeles Dentist today. Every patient has an opportunity to consult with a dentist that has experience and passion for oral health. Dentist Los Angeles have experience with people from diverse backgrounds to help inform and guide them as they create a unique plan for your oral care treatment.

Dental Implants: The Best Solution for Tooth Replacement

Dental Implants,

Dental Implants Los Angeles

Dental implants are saving teeth one smile at a time. With the increased risk of gum disease, infection or weakening of the jawbone, missing a healthy tooth can cause a number of health issues that no one wants to experience. This is why  dental implants are a safe and simple tooth restoration procedure Los Angeles patients can turn to if they have lost a tooth or multiple teeth.

What are Dental Implants?

Information for dental implants Los Angeles patients can be provided by an experienced cosmetic dentist who takes the time to review your options for tooth replacement. Dental implants are a unique form of tooth restoration that replaces the tooth root with a titanium prosthetic root. After the tooth root is fused with the jaw bone a supportive crown caps the tooth to replace the look, feel and function of the lost tooth. The bone will start to heal around the implant and function without increasing the risk of bone deterioration or future tooth loss.

What Sets Apart Dental Implants from the Rest?

This downtown Los Angeles dentist, along with many other cosmetic dentists, turn to dental implants over other dental prosthetics because the titanium root simulates the impression that a natural tooth is standing in place of a gap in the smile. Dental bridges and dentures are temporary repairs and can be lost, whereas dental implants are permanent and never need to be removed or specially cleaned by expensive dental solutions. Thus far, the chance of tooth deterioration is avoided with a permanent tooth root instead of allowing a gap in teeth to cause further damage in teeth.

An estimated 3 million people in the United States have at least one or more dental implants and with 63 percent of all American adults missing more than one tooth the traditional tooth replacement methods are not what they used to be. According to the  American Academy of Implant Dentistry, the expected number of people with dental implants is expected to become a billion-dollar industry worldwide. That is why patients are opting for dental implants since they can replace multiple teeth in the upper or lower row of teeth for a permanent restoration.

Learn about Your Options with Dental Implants Los Angeles

Dental implants are can be installed in place of a deteriorated tooth or an injured tooth that needs to be replaced. Proper maintenance and care can help reassure that the prosthetic root lasts for life as well as maintain the jawbone’s shape and density. If you want to get in touch with the best cosmetic dentist Los Angeles patients trust the most then schedule a consultation today.  Contact our Los Angeles dentist office at (213) 481-2917.

 

How Dental Veneers Can Perfect Your Smile

Dental Veneers, ,

dental veneers

Patients are constantly in search of the safest approach to restoring a tampered smile, especially after their smile has suffered an injury. Even at the emergency dentistry Los Angeles residents visit, they show how distressed they are with the original size, color and the shape of their teeth. Dental veneers may be the best option for the custom smile you have been brushing for. The cosmetic  veneers Los Angeles procedure is not just an appearance enhancer it can be a great improvement in a patient’s long-term dental health.

What are Dental Veneers?

Dental veneers Los Angeles patients receive are made of thin layers of porcelain that are capped over the front surface of a single tooth or multiple teeth. Typically, they are used to cover gaps, broken teeth, chipped teeth or for a straighter smile. Dental veneers are also used to address discolored or worn out teeth, since these caps are designed to blend in with the remaining natural teeth, no matter what shade of white the smile currently is.

Why is Veneers Los Angeles Popular?

Porcelain veneers provide a full scope of benefits that go beyond their aesthetic value. A patient’s smile is incapable of restoring itself, which is why veneers are designed to preserve healthy tooth structure. One of the main reasons why veneers are popular is because they offer a total smile transformation in almost no downtime at all. Patients find this procedure to be their choice of restoration, since veneers can be capped with minimal modification to the existing teeth.

Secret to Avoiding Stains

There are very few tricks of the trade to help keep your veneers and your smile in great form. Drinking from a straw is a good tactic to avoid staining the tooth’s surface from coffee and dark beverages. Avoiding consumption of acidic and sticky foods is also great for tooth enamel. However, the best defense for dental veneers is attending routine dental cleanings and checkups. Respectfully so, the  American Dental Association recommends to attend dental cleanings with your general dentist every six months to prevent dental health issues such as tooth decay, periodontal disease and to detect early signs of oral cancer.

Schedule a Consultation for Veneers Los Angeles

Get the best veneers Los Angeles patients choose most often to revitalize their smile. Today, dental veneers last between 10 and 30 years when patients provide attentive care from their cosmetic dentist’s instructions. Dental veneers can make all the difference for you and your smile. Contact our cosmetic dental office for the best treatment at (213) 481-2917.

Rapidly Remove Years of Stains with Teeth Whitening

Uncategorized,

One of the most popular cosmetic dental procedures in cosmetic dentistry Los Angeles is  teeth whitening. Plenty of cosmetic dental patients may show pay extra special attention to their smile, but they still find their smile to be covered in yellow. Many Los Angeles patients fail to remember that a dazzling smile requires proper oral hygiene as well as regular in-office visits and when it comes to stained teeth, the best solution is in-office teeth whitening treatment. Even if you are one of the 78 percent of Americans who have had at least one dental cavity by age 17, you are likely longing for a brighter and whiter smile.

Teeth whitening can change your overall image like nothing else imaginable. Teeth whitening procedures from a cosmetic dentist are the safest form of tooth bleaching that provides the fastest results compared to over-the-counter products. Los Angeles teeth whitening is a powerful solution that removes organic stains and discolorations caused by natural aging, consumption of certain foods and tobacco use. Ideal teeth whitening candidates are patients who have healthy teeth and show a deep interest in having a brighter smile.

Which Foods Discolor Teeth?

There are three common factors that contribute to food related tooth discoloration – chromogens, acidity, and tannins. Chromgens are intensely pigmented molecules contained in food and beverages that latch on tooth enamel. Highly acidic food and beverages are capable of eroding and staining teeth by facilitating the latching of chromogens. Tannins are a group of phenol compounds found in plants that we mix in with certain foods, which are known to enhance the ability of chromogens. Generally speaking, the more intense the color of a food or beverage item, is the higher the risk that it stains teeth. The top foods and beverages that cause tooth stains include:

  • Wine

  • Tea and coffee

  • Dark soda

  • Berries

  • Sweets and hard candy

In-office Teeth Whitening Most Effective

Having a brighter smile does come with a price, but having treatment from a CDA cosmetic dentist is your safest option. There are several over-the-counter products that your dentist can suggest, but they do not stand in comparison to in-office teeth whitening. As per the  California Dental Association, consulting with the guidance of a cosmetic dentist about the best available teeth whitening procedure serves as the safe and effective treatment that do not damage your teeth or gums. In-office teeth whitening products are regulated by an experienced dentist who dazzles your smile several shades brighter than you could ever achieve.

Make sure to contact Dr. Zabolian about your best options for teeth whitening and whether or not your teeth and gums are healthy enough a cosmetic dental procedure that removes the toughest teeth stains.

How Often Should I Schedule Preventative Dental Visits?

Uncategorized

This is a question that patients frequently ask, and the reasons why are evident. No one is exactly eager to get a dental checkup, but no one wants to lose any teeth either. For many years, the general consensus among dentists was that all adults should go in for cleanings and screenings twice a year. Now, the issue is being revisited, and the recommendations are being adjusted to suit the needs of the individual.

First, it’s important to remember that prevention reduces tooth loss, period. However, the frequency of your preventative care should be tailored to meet your needs. In short, patients with a high risk for tooth loss need more than two dental checkups per year. Adults without those risk factors are usually okay visiting their dentist just once every 12 months.

Nearly half of all adults over age 30 in the U.S. have a form of chronic inflammatory gum disease. This condition is considered a major risk factor for future tooth loss. Other factors that may place you in the high risk category include smoking, diabetes, and certain genetic factors. Studies have shown that patients in this high risk group are five percent more likely to have a tooth extracted when they get one yearly checkup versus two. For patients in this category, additional checkups throughout the year can decrease the chances of future tooth loss even more.

Low risk patients saw no difference in future tooth loss when they visited the dentist once a year or twice. This has led many dentists to recommend that patients without periodontal disease only come in for checkups once a year. If you are in this category, you can breathe a sigh of relief.

The next time you come in for a screening and tooth cleaning, make sure to ask Dr. Zabolian about the health of your gums and whether or not you are at an elevated risk of future tooth loss. Knowing what category you fall into can help you schedule your future appointments, especially if you need more frequent visits to keep your teeth healthy well into the future.