All posts by Alan Zabolian

The image shows a pediatric dentist treating a young patient. The image serves to shows the benefits of pediatric dentistry and visually represents what ages pediatric dentists treat.

What Ages Does a Pediatric Dentist Treat?

Pediatric Dentistry,

Children require a lot of care, and regular medical checkups are part of that. Seeing a pediatric dental specialist on a regular basis is also part of a good healthcare routine for a child. But what ages does a pediatric dentist treat? In this article, we will answer this question and discuss the importance of dental health care for children. 

What Ages Does a Pediatric Dentist Treat?

Pediatric dentists treat children from the time the first baby tooth appears until around the age of 18. Children and teenagers benefit more from seeing a pediatric dentist than a general dentist. Pediatric dentists have the specialized knowledge and training needed to treat a growing mouth. 

In addition, a good pediatric dentist knows how to make a child or teenager less anxious about their dental visits and how to educate them on oral hygiene in kid-friendly terms. A friendly environment that a pediatric dentist can provide will ensure a positive experience for the child and will lead to better oral health habits in the future.

Why Do You Need to Take Care of Baby Teeth?

You should not underestimate the importance of healthy baby teeth. The fact that baby teeth will eventually fall out does not mean that their health can be neglected. There are several reasons for taking care of baby teeth:

Tooth Decay or Tooth Loss Can Cause Malnutrition

Toothache in a baby tooth or tooth loss might prevent children from eating some foods that require a lot of chewing or biting. Such foods might include fruits, vegetables, nuts, meat, etc., and are crucial for the proper growth and development of a child. 

Dental Health Problems Lead to Chronic Pain and Stress

Constant stress that a child experiences from tooth or gum ache can affect their mood and ability to concentrate, learn, and make friends.

Tooth Decay or Tooth Loss Can Cause Speech Impediments

A whole set of healthy baby teeth free of pain plays a crucial role in a child’s proper speech development.

Tooth Decay Can Lead to Gum Disease

If cavities are untreated for a long time, the decay and bacteria can spread to the other teeth in the mouth and to the gum tissue. Gum disease that starts in early childhood can cause problems with permanent teeth in the future. Additionally, gum disease can cause serious issues with the development of the jawbone and lead to bone density loss.

Baby Tooth Decay Has Negative Impact on General Health

Tooth decay means that bacteria and infections are constantly present in a child’s mouth. Oral infections can lead to problems with the heart, lungs, bones, and gastrointestinal system of the child. Studies show that tooth decay can even negatively impact a child’s cognitive function.

Precocious Baby Tooth Loss Can Lead to Orthodontic Issues

Untreated cavities in baby teeth lead to precocious tooth loss, which negatively impacts jawbone development and the growth of permanent teeth in the future. Precocious baby tooth loss can also cause overcrowdedness, improper bite, and other orthodontic issues that will require more expensive and time-consuming treatment.

Even if your child already has all their permanent teeth, oral health care remains just as important.

At What Age Should You Start Bringing Your Child to a Dentist?

Dentists recommend having the first dental visit with your child by 12 months of age or no later than six months from the appearance of the first tooth. During this visit, a pediatric dentist will examine your child’s teeth, gums, jaw, and bite. The exam is needed to ensure that growth and development progress as they should. Early visits can also help predict any potential orthodontic issues and plan the treatment accordingly. 

Depending on your child’s oral health, your dentist might recommend a professional cleaning to remove plaque and tartar from the teeth to prevent bacterial growth in your kid’s mouth. However, this procedure is typically done when more teeth erupt, between 12 and 36 months of age. 

In some cases, a child might not get their first teeth in their first year of life. Based on the data provided by AAPD (American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry), on average, children have their first dental visit at 2,5 years of age. If your child does not have teeth by the age of 12 months, you can postpone the visit until the time teeth do appear. 

Make an Appointment Today

Samaritan Dental offers a dentist for the whole family, who will make both you and your child comfortable during the visit. If your child needs a routine exam or you suspect any dental issues, do not hesitate to make an appointment with one of our specialists today. We look forward to welcoming you and your children to our dental office!

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Repairing a Chipped or Broken Tooth

Cosmetic Dentistry, , ,

When a tooth is chipped or broken, it is not only an aesthetic problem. In fact, this can lead to functional issues, further tooth decay, and even tooth loss if not treated. That is why a damaged tooth requires immediate attention and emergency dental care. In this article, we will talk about the options for repairing a chipped or broken tooth.

First Steps if Your Tooth Is Broken or Chipped

Of course, the first step is to make an appointment at a clinic that has emergency dental services. While you are waiting for your appointment, try doing the following:

  • Preserve a piece of your tooth that broke off—it might be possible to use it for restoration.
  • Rinse your mouth with salt water to eliminate the bacteria and prevent inflammation.
  • If you have to eat, chew on the other side of your mouth and opt for soft or liquid foods to eliminate the possibility of damaging the tooth further
  • Be careful if the broken tooth edges are sharp—they might damage the surrounding soft tissue in your mouth. You can place a sugarless gum over it.
  • If you feel acute pain, take over-the-counter painkillers, for example, Ibuprofen.
  • If your tooth is knocked out of its socket completely, you should act quickly. Make sure that the tooth is clean by rinsing it with water or milk. Do not try to dry it with any materials. Then, try putting your tooth back in its socket. It will increase the chances of its survival. If you can not put it back in the socket, put it in milk or water within 5 minutes after it was knocked out and try to see a dentist within the first 30-60 minutes after the trauma.

Repairing a Chipped or Broken Tooth

When you finally see your dentist, they might suggest different options for restoration, depending on the severity of the case.

Dental Filling or Bonding

In cases when a small piece of enamel is chipped, the tooth can be repaired with dental filling. If a front tooth is damaged, then dental bonding can be a more suitable option. A tooth-colored composite resin is typically used for the procedure of bonding. The procedure of dental bonding is usually painless. Firstly, the surface of the tooth will be prepared by making it rougher so the bonding material can adhere better. Then, the resin will be applied with the help of a special adhesive material. The resin will be shaped like your natural tooth and then hardened with an ultraviolet light.

Dental Crowns

If a larger piece of a tooth breaks off, a dental crown can be the right solution for the problem. Your doctor will help you choose a material for your crown. Then, the tooth will be prepared by filing down its enamel, after which the crown will be placed to cover the tooth completely. Dental crowns are used to support the damaged tooth structure, prevent it from further damage, and improve the tooth’s appearance. If you choose a porcelain, porcelain-fused-to-metal, resin, or ceramic crown, it will most likely be indistinguishable from your natural teeth.

In cases when the entire tooth is broken off at a gum line, but the root still remains in the socket, you might require root canal therapy. A metal post can be placed in the canal to support a dental crown that will be put on top of it. Root canal therapy is also used if the pulp of the tooth is exposed due to the damage. The dead or infected parts of the pulp will be removed, and the root canal will be cleaned and sealed to avoid infections in the future.

Dental Veneers

Dental veneers are an especially great option for restoring chipped or broken front teeth. Veneer is a thin porcelain shell that covers the front of the tooth and looks exactly like your natural teeth. It can effectively mask any cosmetic imperfections of your teeth. Dental veneers can also be used to adjust the shape, size, and color of your teeth. One thing to note is that receiving veneers involves filing down the enamel of the tooth, thus this procedure is considered irreversible.

Make an Appointment Today

If you had a dental trauma resulting in a chipped or broken tooth, do not postpone a visit to a dental office. Call Samaritan Dental today, and we will sign you up for an appointment with an emergency services dentist. Our specialists will make sure that your tooth is repaired and your dental health is preserved. We are looking forward to welcoming you to our office.

Top 6 Invisalign FAQs

Invisalign, ,

Today, Invisalign braces are one of the most popular orthodontics solutions for teeth straightening and improving the bite. The reason for the popularity of Invisalign is that it is almost invisible in your mouth. To help you learn more about Invisalign, we are discussing the top 6 Invisalign FAQs below.

Top 6 Invisalign FAQs

1. What Is the Difference Between Invisalign and Braces?

Invisalign is a teeth-straightening solution that comes in the form of clear plastic aligners. During the treatment, you will be given several sets of custom-made trays that work by strategically applying pressure to your teeth and shifting their position over time.

The big advantage of Invisalign is that it can be removed when eating and brushing your teeth, compared to braces. This means that Invisalign is easier to clean, and no dietary restrictions are needed. The average timeline of the whole treatment with Invisalign is from 10 to 18 months. Invisalign can be used for both teenagers and adults.

The principle of working with traditional braces is very similar to that of Invisalign. However, they can not be removed and are more noticeable on your teeth, as they consist of metal wires and brackets. On top of that, the cleaning process is more complicated, sometimes making dental hygiene routine quite a chore. Also, in many cases, you will have dietary restrictions when wearing braces.

2. Why Do I Need Treatment with Invisalign?

Orthodontic treatment with Invisalign can solve a variety of dental and general health issues. Straight teeth are not only more aesthetically pleasing, but also make oral hygiene much easier, leading to lower risk of tooth decay and gum disease. This will also have positive effects on the digestive system, and on the whole body as a result. Misaligned bite and teeth crowding can also lead to speech impediments, sinus congestion, back and neck pain.

3. Who Can Have Invisalign Treatment?

Typically, Invisalign treatment is effective for most people when treating spacing, crowding, and bite issues. However, there are several factors that can determine if this method will be effective for you.

General oral health.

If your teeth and gums are in fairly good condition and do not require a lot of treatment, you will most likely be able to start with Invisalign right away.

Severity of misalignment.

Even though Invisalign is a very effective solution for many orthodontics issues, there are severe cases when Invisalign will not work as well. In such situations braces are a preferred solution.

The ability to commit to the treatment.

It is great that Invisalign can be removed from your mouth if need be, but it also means that there is much more temptation to do so more often. It is especially tempting to take out the trays when your teeth hurt because of the pressure applied to them. But you will have to wear the trays for 20 to 22 hours a day for the treatment to work. If you think that you can not maintain this level of discipline, braces will be a better choice as they are bonded to your teeth and can not be removed at will.

4. Is Invisalign Comfortable to Wear?

Generally, Invisalign is considered to be a more comfortable option than metal braces. Often, braces can rub against your cheeks, creating sores. Invisalign is smooth and will be less likely to cause such inconvenience. As we mentioned before, Invisalign is also easier to clean than braces, making the hygiene routine more straightforward. On top of that, Invisalign treatment requires fewer visits to your dentist compared to braces, meaning that it will save you some time.

5. What Are the Disadvantages of Invisalign Treatment?

One of disadvantages is that invisalign can be less effective for treating complicated cases compared to traditional braces. Also, the time of treatment can be significantly prolonged, if the patient can not commit to wearing the trays for 20 to 22 hours a day. Other than that, Invisalign proves to be a highly effective and comfortable solution.

6. How Do I Get Invisalign?

Schedule an appointment at Samaritan Dental to have a checkup and consultation. Our qualified DTLA dentist will determine if Invisalign is suitable for you and if any prior treatment is needed. Then e-rays, scans, and digital modeling are done. Later, they will be sent to the laboratory and used to create a set of trays right and comfortable for you.

When you receive a custom-made set of aligners, all you have to do is to wear them diligently and to see how your teeth get straighter leading to a beautiful and healthy smile.

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Dental Anxiety Tips for Kids

Pediatric Dentistry,

It is common for children to fear visits to a dental office. There can be different reasons for the fear. Some children might have had an unpleasant experience before, or just the idea of undergoing any kind of medical procedure or intrusion might seem scary. In any case, these fears tend to make dental visits very challenging. Below, we cover dental anxiety tips for kids.

Dental Anxiety Tips for Kids

In this article, we go through the nature of these fears and give dental anxiety tips for kids to ensure that their visits to a dentist are productive.

The Nature of Dental Anxiety

Dental anxiety is a fear of visiting the dentist’s office. Some children might have fears associated with a specific procedure. For example, the sound of a dental drill can bring about the fear of strong pain. For other children, the idea of a needle being inserted into a part of their body seems terrifying. Many children are scared of the mere idea of going to a doctor.

The truth is that these fears are connected to the natural survival instinct in a child and are not something out of the ordinary. Subconsciously, children try to avoid any intrusion from outside.

Unfortunately, when the child is anxious and upset, it makes the procedure, or even a simple check-up, hard for both the child and the doctor. On top of that, if the child doesn’t learn how to cope with their dentist-related anxiety now, it might only increase with time.

Also, avoiding going to the dentist can lead to oral health issues that might need more expensive treatments later on. In addition, the repeated avoidance of dental treatments will only strengthen the anxiety.

Why Children Are Afraid of Dentists

There are several reasons why fear of dentists might be the case:

  • A learned fear from relatives, who are also anxious about dental visits and mentioned it around the child
  • Seeing other children being afraid of dentists on TV or among their peers
  • A memory of previous painful visits
  • The unfamiliar and often unpleasant smell of a medical office
  • Insufficient preparation by parents for the first dental visit

Dos and Don’ts in Cases of Dental Anxiety

Do not reprimand the child.

As we mentioned before, the fear of any intrusion into the body has its roots in the natural and absolutely normal survival instincts of a child. Unfortunately, children do not tend to have the reasoning adults have yet. They are just afraid of pain or harm that might be done to them, so they try to protect themselves by crying and screaming.

Thus, it is very important for parents to understand that these fears seem reasonable and justified for the child and to try to avoid scolding the child for them. Reprimanding the child will increase the level of anxiety even more.

Try to Calm the Child Down

A calm, natural, and assured demeanor of a parent will likely make the child feel calmer and secure, too. Try not to act anxiously or in an irritated manner yourself. Then, the child will feel that there is not that much to worry about after all.

Prepare the Child for the Visit

There are different ways to go about preparing your child for the visit. You can try telling or reading a child stories about dental visits that are meant to alleviate the stress. Make it sound like a fun adventure rather than a trial.

There are also some special toys and games available. You can play out a dental visit at home, preparing the child for what might occur during the procedure. You can even have a child pretend to be a dentist themselves.

Educate your child in easy-to-understand terms. Tell them in a positive manner why the visit is important and how it is good for them. Tell them about what they can expect at the dental office. If a child asks you a question, answer honestly. You might also carefully prepare the child for some unpleasant but not harmful sensations that might occur so that they are not surprised by them and do not break into tears at the appointment. You can also find images related to positive dental visits and show them to the child.

Do Not Enforce Oral Hygiene by Making a Child Scared of Dentists

Parents want to make sure that their child brushes their teeth properly. Sometimes, parents warn the child of a dental procedure that will happen if they do not maintain good oral hygiene. This will only terrify the child of anything related to dentistry. Try to use positive reinforcement instead, not portray dental procedures as a punishment for not brushing their teeth well. There are toothbrushes and other tools developed specifically to make children interested in keeping their mouth clean.

Bring a Toy Along to the Appointment

Having a favorite toy with them can reassure the child and make them feel more secure and calm.

Come up With a Reward for Going to the Dentist

It might be a good idea to tell your child that you are going to do something they like together after the appointment. It will help give the child motivation to endure the procedure.

Find the Right Pediatric Dentist

Pediatric dentistry is a special branch of medical training. An experienced pediatric dentist knows how to work with kids and how to create a positive and calming environment. Pediatric dentists have special training related to a child’s dental care. This will ensure a more productive visit and a positive experience for your child.

Make an appointment with one of our experienced pediatric DTLA dentists at Samaritan Dental for a check-up or treatment for your child.

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How At-Home Whitening Treatments Burn Gums

Teeth Whitening,

If you have visited your local convenience store lately, you have likely noticed a wide range of at-home whitening kits available to purchase over the counter. From whitening strips to at-home chemical formulas, plenty of companies are selling products that anyone can use in the comfort of their own bathrooms. Below, we look at how at-home whitening treatments burn gums.

How At-Home Whitening Treatments Burn Gums

While tooth whitening products are designed to lift extrinsic stains from the surface of your teeth and restore a bright, white appearance to your mouth, improper use of them can cause some harmful side effects. Your gums are made up of sensitive tissue, which is prone to burning after being touched by certain chemicals. Today, your trusted DTLA dentist will explain how at-home whitening treatments burn gums much more often than professional, in-office teeth whitening procedures.

What Are At-Home Treatments Made Of?

There are a vast number of teeth whitening products made by different brands for over-the-counter use. From Crest to SNOW, companies continue to innovate cosmetic dental care by putting the convenience of professional treatments in a take-home package. There can be a lot of benefits to using teeth whitening strips regularly, as this shows that you greatly care about your oral health. However, there are also a few risk factors that every consumer should be aware of.

Many tooth whitening treatments contain hydrogen peroxide as the main ingredient. While this chemical is good for treating wounds and wiping out infections, it can also burn. When hydrogen peroxide touches the gums, they can become overly sensitive or even painful for an extended period of time. While minor reactions can go away fast, more severe burns will leave white spots and painful marks on the gums.

How to Avoid Getting Burned By Teeth Whitening

Since hydrogen peroxide and other common bleaching agents cause burning gums, it is best to use caution when selecting your next set of dental hygiene products. While any dentist-approved product is safe to use for a short period of time, you may not be able to predict when side effects may occur. This is why our Samaritan Dental Arts experts recommend that you make an appointment with your dentist before you buy anything so you can discuss the best course of action.
There are other ways you can protect your teeth and gums from becoming too sensitive:

  • Follow the instructions provided with your teeth whitening products as this can help you prevent undue pain or discomfort.
  • Ask your dentist about in-office whitening treatments or a customized whitening tray that can be made to fit your unique set of teeth.
  • Limit the number of acids you put in your body through foods like tomatoes, citrus, and soda.
  • Do not whiten your teeth every day, even if you have enough products to do so at home; extended use can severely weaken your teeth by eroding the protective enamel layers that surround them.
  • Make sure that the tooth whitening product does not get on the gums, and wipe it off as soon as you notice it.

If the damage has already been done, do not worry – there are still plenty of ways to calm your symptoms while you reach out to your dentist for professional help. You can rinse your mouth with salt water, which will remove leftover bleaching products from your gums. If your pain or irritation persists after a couple of days, you should get in touch with your dentist right away.

Get Professional In-Office Teeth Whitening for Best Results

The safest, most effective, and most comfortable way to apply long-lasting whitening to your teeth is through your dentist. Our in-office teeth whitening treatments use products and techniques that are not sold in the store as regular, over-the-counter items. If you want to give your teeth the best of the best, visit us to learn how our pain-free whitening services can keep your smile bright for a long time to come.

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How to Keep Your Dental Veneers Clean

Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Veneers,

Below, we cover how to keep your dental veneers clean. Porcelain veneers help to enhance the appearance of one’s teeth, restoring a sense of vivacity and shine to your mouth of pearly whites. However, like many implants and treatments, veneers require some level of maintenance to last as long as they might and maintain their full efficacy.

How to Keep Your Dental Veneers Clean

If you’re thinking about receiving veneer treatment or already have this type of procedure scheduled, then take a look over the following guide. It might help you to maintain your Veneer results for the maximum amount of time.

1. Practice Good Oral Hygiene

Good oral hygiene can give your veneers a major extension of longevity and sustainability. This includes commonsense practices such as brushing twice daily and using floss and mouthwash for comprehensive oral health.

Regular visits to your dental professional can help in this process and serve to enhance whatever daily practices you might already be applying.

2. Use A Whitening Toothpaste

Using whitening toothpaste can help give you an extra boost in terms of adding to your veneers. Veneers, like regular teeth, are highly susceptible to staining over time. Your dentist should be able to recommend a good whitening toothpaste for your particular situation.

3. Be Gentle

Your porcelain crowns and veneers are actually somewhat fragile and can be prone to breakage and damage if treated incorrectly. It is recommended to avoid biting on hard surfaces or using your teeth to open bottles and other containers.

Using a soft, gentle toothbrush when cleaning your mouth is also recommended. Your dentist can offer you additional cleaning techniques to protect your oral health.

4. Limit Your Smoking and Drinking

Excessive smoking and drinking can have highly harmful effects on your overall health. In order to avoid these detrimental effects, including the kind that they can have on your veneers, it is recommended that you limit the amount of time you spend on these activities.

5. Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help to enhance your overall health, which will trickle down into the health and appearance of your dental veneers.

Many periodontal diseases and conditions prove linked to overall detrimental health situations. Anemia, vitamin deficiency, and other conditions can all have a hand in contributing to detrimental dental situations.

6. Use a Mouthguard

If you’re regularly participating in high-impact sports or other hazardous activities, you might want to consider using a mouthguard to help protect whatever dental implants or veneers you might have installed in your mouth.

An errant elbow can have disastrous consequences on one’s veneers and possibly lead to having them replaced in some form if substantial damage is performed on your veneers.

7. Use a Whitening Kit

Using a whitening kit can help your veneers stray spruced up for a long period of time. This is especially true if you notice that your veneers are starting to stain to the point that they appear different from the rest of your teeth. You can consult with your dentist about what type of whitening kit might work best for your personal situation.

8. Stay Up to Date With Your Care

One of the most important steps you can take to maintain the health of your veneers is simply staying up to date on their daily maintenance. Small efforts sustained over time can lead to big results. But this depends on the situation that you and your teeth have.

Your Oral Health Consultation

Planning on receiving veneers or want to learn more about the treatment? Then you can set up a consultation to learn more about the benefits of this treatment. Additionally, you can learn how they interact with your personal health situation.

You can consult with your doctor on the types of activities that might benefit you, specifically in terms of daily care of your veneers. This might include scheduling follow-up visits. At these, you can determine what kinds of treatment might complement or enhance whatever work you may have already performed.

All in all, this is the best period for you to maximize your veneer treatment as well as determine the best way to take care of this essential part of your body. Asking whatever clarifying questions you need can only serve to enhance whatever results you might glean from the procedure.

The Dental Veneer Center of Los Angeles

Samaritan Dental Arts is the DTLA dentist of preference for dental veneers and their maintenance. If you are interested in seeing whether or not this procedure can work for you, contact our office to schedule an appointment.

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Can Invisalign fix an overbite?

Invisalign, ,

Invisalign is a popular orthodontic treatment. It is an effective treatment and a great alternative to traditional braces. Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign is discreet as the aligners are clear. The treatment offers a variety of benefits and can treat a number of issues. You may wonder, can Invisalign fix an overbite? Below, you will find what Invisalign can address and why the treatment is right for you.

Can Invisalign fix an overbite?

Invisalign aligners are custom-made plastic trays that snugly fit around your teeth. Over time, they effectively move your teeth into the desired position. Common issues addressed by Invisalign include alignment, spacing, and overbites. An overbite involves your upper teeth extending further forward than your lower teeth. This can impact your speech and ability to properly chew. It can also negatively impact the appearance of your smile. Invisalign has been shown to successfully correct mild to moderate overbites. Your DTLA dentist can help determine the severity of your overbite. They can also provide you with a customized treatment plan to help you achieve your dental goals.

Invisalign Treatment

The first step in moving forward with treatment is scheduling a consultation. Once it has been determined that you are a good candidate, you can begin treatment. If there are any oral health issues that would impact your treatment, those issues are dealt with before you begin treatment. Common issues include tooth decay or gum disease.

Treatment involves wearing custom-made invisible trays. These slowly move your teeth into the desired position. The effectiveness of treatment depends on wearing your aligners for 20 to 22 hours each day. Each tray is swapped out every one to two weeks. Each aligner is slightly different from the last to ensure consistent and gradual progress. Invisalign braces can take as little as six months to up to two years. The duration depends on the severity of your rural health issues and how consistent you are with treatment.

Benefits of Invisalign

Having a straight smile that you are proud of can boost your confidence, in addition to a number of other benefits. Consider the following benefits of Invisalign if you are unhappy with the look of your smile.

Aesthetic Benefits:

Invisalign can improve the appearance of your smile. It can close gaps, straighten crooked teeth, and address overbites or underbites. These are just a few of the ways Invisalign can enhance your smile.

Comfort:

For the most part, Invisalign aligners are comfortable. Traditional braces are bulky and can cut into areas of your mouth. This can be really uncomfortable. Aligners are custom-made to fit your teeth and do not cause irritation. You may feel minor discomfort the first day you wear new aligners, but this subsides within a short time.

Discreet:

Invisalign aligners are clear, which makes them a discrete option as compared to traditional braces. This is a major benefit for professionals, as bulky braces can be distracting. Taking good care of your oral health and aligners can ensure they stay clear and discreet.

Easy Maintenance:

Unlike traditional braces, your aligners can be easily removed. This makes maintaining your oral health much easier. It’s also really convenient as you can clean your aligners while you care for your oral health. Despite wearing aligners, you should still brush your teeth at least twice a day. In addition, it’s necessary to floss each time before you put your aligners in. This can reduce your risk of decay and ensure your oral health stays in good shape.

Improved Oral Health:

Aligned teeth are beneficial for your oral health. In fact, it can reduce your risk of decay and other harmful oral health issues. This is because aligned teeth are easier to clean. There is also less risk of missing bacteria and leftover debris in the hard-to-reach places in your mouth. Aligners can effectively align your teeth, which improves your oral health in the long run.

concept of woman in pain can tell if she has a cavity

How to Tell if You Have a Cavity: Common Signs to Look For

General Dentistry, ,

Attending multiple dental appointments throughout the year might feel like a bothersome chore. However, neglecting these visits for an extended period can pave the way for significant oral health issues that you might not be prepared to handle in the future. Ignoring dental problems could lead to the development of cavities, which should not be taken lightly. Below we cover how to tell if you have a cavity.

How to Tell if You Have a Cavity: Common Signs to Look For

Cavities can be treated easily and relatively painlessly with a dental filling if caught early enough. Cavities that are left to grow may further spread decay, making it likely that you will need a root canal or even a tooth extraction. You can contact our dental office at the earliest sign of tooth discomfort, which we will go into more detail about below. Here’s how to tell if you have a cavity: common signs to look for and methods to prevent the spread of decay.

How Cavities Form

Cavities begin forming from the buildup of bacteria that comes from the foods and beverages you consume. Particles from sugar, tobacco, juice, and other substances create bacteria that adhere to the tooth surfaces, eventually turning into plaque. This tough, adhesive substance erodes enamel and leaves plenty of room for infection to set in.

As this infection progresses, it starts attacking parts of the teeth. These affected portions display dark brown and black spots, which grow larger if untreated. This underscores the importance of visiting your dentist regularly, as you might not even be aware of the emerging cavity within your mouth until ti’s too late. Whether you have noticed a dark spot on your teeth or you are starting to feel pain or sensitivity around the area, it’s a good idea to get in touch with your Samaritan Dental Arts specialists right away.

Common Signs and Symptoms of Cavities

To identify cavity symptoms, it’s crucial for you and your dentist to recognize the early warning signs before they escalate into a very painful – and expensive – oral health problem. You might have a cavity if you experience one or more of the following on a regular basis:

  • Random bursts of pain from your tooth or gums
  • Constant pain and aches in the tooth
  • Sensitivity to hot and cold foods
  • Dark spots or stains on the teeth that continue to grow
  • Discomfort when biting down

If you’ve been grappling with significant tooth discomfort, a cavity could very well be the culprit. By reaching out to your dentist ASAP, you are making sure that you are taking care of the issue before it turns into a full-blown tooth infection. By that point, your symptoms will be agonizing and your tooth may have to be completely removed from your mouth.

Less Common Signs and Symptoms of Cavities

Permitting a cavity to grow without intervention might cause it to spread, intensifying the symptoms. Continued negligence could have terrible oral health results, signing you up for a future of pain and discomfort. Stay on top of your health by avoiding these signs:

  • Swollen lymph nodes
  • A throbbing sensation in the gums, jaws, or neck
  • Swollen cheeks
  • Heightened pain when lying down or tilting forward
  • Excessive sensitivity to temperature changes
  • Fever
  • Persistent bad breath (halitosis)

If any of these signs persist, you might be dealing with a tooth infection that is starting to spread to other areas of the mouth. You can invest in emergency dental care for quick intervention as the last hope of saving your tooth. Otherwise, there are many proactive measures you can take to keep your oral health in tip-top shape. For example, brushing and flossing your teeth regularly can keep harmful bits of bacteria at bay.

Treat Your Cavities ASAP

Your oral health is incredibly important, and taking care of your teeth is a lifelong task. You may be the perfect candidate for dental cavities treatment if you have a growing cavity, tooth sensitivity, pain, or localized discomfort of any kind. It is a good idea to reach out to your trusted dental experts as quickly as you can, as acting quickly can save your tooth from extraction. Learn more when you contact our pros today.

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3 Tips for Staying Calm in a Dental Emergency

Dental Emergencies,

There aren’t many sure things in this world, but one of them is that accidents are going to happen. Whether from playing contact sports or having a bad trip, it is possible for people of all ages to suffer from a dental emergency. If you suddenly get a severe dental injury in the middle of the night or in an unexpected situation, don’t panic! It is understandable to be scared, but thankfully there are plenty of ways to get immediate help. Below we cover 3 tips for staying calm in a dental emergency.

3 Tips for Staying Calm in a Dental Emergency

Our downtown Los Angeles dentist will share the top 3 tips for staying calm in a dental emergency. Whether you have a broken tooth or you have suffered a sports injury, it is critical that you know what type of care you need at the moment.

Find the Right Type of Emergency Dentist

Depending on the type of dental emergency you are faced with, you will want to find out what kind of help you can get. For instance, a cracked tooth and a knocked-out tooth are treated differently. There are many different types of emergency services offered by our experts, including:

Chipped Teeth

Certain dental injuries can occur that don’t necessarily make you lose a tooth. But they may still leave enough of an impact that you need to receive help right away. It can become cracked or chipped due to physical impact. Or perhaps contact with something sharp has cut into your tooth and gums. You can even get chipped teeth from grinding too hard at night. And this may eventually cause some damage. Make sure to rinse your mouth with warm water to stop some of the bleeding.

Missing Teeth

Has your tooth completely come out of your mouth? Then you should try to save the tooth while you are on your way to the emergency dentist. Make sure you hold it by the top, or the crown, rather than the root – this is a sensitive part of the tooth that may make it possible for it to be reattached. Do not use soap or cleaning products on the tooth.

Make an appointment as quickly as possible. If it isn’t painful, you can try to position the tooth back in your mouth. Some experts even suggest putting the tooth in a glass of milk without touching it and bringing it to the dentist so it can be reattached. However, you should not take any drastic steps until you have heard from your dentist.

Stay Calm!

You may feel stressed out and ready to panic when you are faced with a sudden dental injury. This is an understandable reaction to something that has happened so suddenly; the best thing you can do at first is to stay calm while you find your closest emergency dental services. The pressure of the situation could make you feel like you are losing control but try to keep a level head, and everything will ultimately be okay.

There are a few things you can do at home to treat your wounds while you make your way to the dentist. Gentle injuries can be washed with salt and warm water. If you are bleeding, place gauze in your mouth until you arrive at the dentist. Your emergency technician will be able to provide the proper treatment to take care of your tooth. At the same time, they work on preventing the spread of infection.

Learn About the Best Emergency Services

Put your faith in your emergency dentist. And rest assured that everything will be taken care of once you get to the expert’s office. On your way, you can focus on relaxation exercises that will help you keep a calm and steady mind in the meantime. Try slow breathing techniques and body hugs to keep yourself feeling alright.

For some people, knowing what to do in an emergency situation can help take away some of the initial shock you may feel when an accident does occur. Make sure to read up on how to properly take care of yourself and your teeth, depending on the type of accident that has occurred. The most important step is getting in touch with your emergency dentist in Downtown LA right away!

featured image fo 6 lifestyle choices that improve dental health

6 Lifestyle Choices that Improve Dental Health

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Taking care of your oral health is an essential part of everyday life. If you are like most people living in this modern world, you have likely been taught the importance of brushing your teeth every day. While this is a good rule to live by, it’s often the case that people don’t do much else to care for their dental health.

6 Lifestyle Choices that Improve Dental Health

While we certainly want to see you at our downtown LA dental office for regular checkups and cleanings, we don’t want you to suffer from poor dental health that results in cavities or tooth loss. That’s why we are using today’s article to list the top 6 lifestyle choices that improve dental health.

Eat More Vitamins and Minerals

The things you put in your body can greatly determine your overall health. Food is the most powerful drug, and your gut has a great effect on the calcium and bone in your teeth. In particular, vitamins C, A, D, and K all promote a healthy mouth while strengthening your immune system overall. These vitamins can come from leafy green vegetables, salmon, nuts, and some dairy products.

Drink More Water

You may have heard about the importance of drinking at least 8 cups of water per day. Not only is water necessary for keeping you hydrated and healthy, but it also promotes a healthy mouth by allowing you to wash away bacteria that would otherwise get stuck on the teeth. Water also contains fluoride, which is a helpful ingredient for strengthening your enamel against harmful bacteria and decay.

Visit Your Dentist Often

Even if you are struggling to maintain good dental health habits on your own, you can still invest in oral healthcare by taking regular trips to your dentist’s office. We typically suggest that patients visit us once every 6 months, getting a deep cleaning twice a year while being screened for possible oral health issues. This is also a great time to get treatment for cavities before signs of decay transform into a full-on infection.

Balance Out Your Diet

Back to the topic of food, it is important that you are balancing your diet by eating more healthy foods and cutting down on unhealthy options. Items high in processed sugar contain harmful bacteria that can infect your teeth and gums, leading to serious dental health issues as time goes on. Certain sticky foods can make it difficult to remove these bits of bacteria from the teeth as they quickly stick to the enamel. If you are craving something sweet, try a piece of fruit or a sugar-free snack instead.

Stop Drinking Soda, Too

In addition to sugary foods, sugary drinks should also be reduced in your daily life. Soda pop, fruit juice, sports drinks, and wines can all contain way more than the recommended amount of daily sugar intake. Not to mention, sugar in liquid is easily delivered straight to your teeth, where it will stay and build up until you brush it off. Save these kinds of drinks for special occasions.

Quit Smoking and Drinking

Cutting tobacco or alcohol out of your life is probably much easier said than done. You don’t need to be preached about when it comes to the negative effects of these drugs, but a reminder to cut back on these harmful substances can help you shift focus back to your dental health. Smoking increases the likelihood that you will develop gum disease, cancer, and other oral health issues. Alcohol makes it more difficult for your body to heal, allowing infection to spread more rapidly.

Improve Your Lifestyle with Our Family Dental Services Today

Whether you want to prevent falling into a cycle of poor health or you are trying to come back after years of neglecting your teeth, you can find the perfect treatment with us at Samaritan Dental Arts. Get top-notch testing and treatment for cavities while we work with you to establish a lifelong plan of care. Turn your life around and feel better about your oral healthcare options when you contact us today!