Yikes! Canker Sores 101 | Best Dentist San Diego

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When you have a canker sore, eating, drinking, and talking can be very uncomfortable and even painful. Maintaining a healthy oral hygiene routine can also be challenging when you have a sore in your mouth. However, you must continue with your daily routine as part of your healing process. 

What is a canker sore?

Typically, canker sores are small, reddish lesions. They are located on your tongue, on the sides of your mouth, and at the base of your gums. In some cases, a sore may appear yellow or white in the center. In addition, you may feel a burning or tingling sensation a day or two before the sores appear.

A canker sore is different from a cold sore (also referred to as a fever blister). Cold sores usually appear on the outside of your lips or at the corners of your mouth.

Where do they come from?

Injuries are one of the most common causes of canker sores. This can be caused by biting your lip or cheek due to stress, an injury from sports, or even brushing vigorously. Some individuals are sensitive to toothpaste containing sodium lauryl sulfate, which may result in sores. Certain foods may also cause canker sores. Sores are known to be triggered by foods such as chocolate, eggs, nuts, and spicy foods. Occasionally, an unbalanced diet may be to blame, especially when zinc or vitamin B-12 deficiency is the underlying cause.

Can you tell me what I can do?

Maintaining a healthy mouth is your best defense. Keeping your teeth clean means brushing twice a day and flossing every day. It may be tempting to avoid brushing your teeth when you have a mouth sore. However, this can lead to a buildup of plaque and bacteria. To help the healing process, keep your mouth clean and healthy. Alternatively, you can try a mouthwash formulated especially for mouth sores. There are also over-the-counter and prescription products you can use, such as Benzocaine, Fluocinonide, and hydrogen peroxide. You can also take nutritional supplements such as folic acid, vitamin B-6, vitamin B-12, or zinc. Consult our team if you are unsure or if the pain persists.

It is recommended to brush around sores gently but thoroughly. Most canker sores will heal within one week. Make an appointment with our dentist if you experience sores frequently or if they do not heal within one week. We will evaluate the severity of your sore and may recommend alternate treatments if necessary.

For more information, contact our office to schedule an appointment. We are committed to your oral health

Paul Taylor, DMD- Advanced Dentistry
Phone: (858) 496-7521
4320 Genesee Ave., Suite 101
San Diego , CA 92117

Restorative Dentistry for Implants | Dentist in San Diego CA

One out of every four adults under 30 loses a tooth. An implant is a safe, long-term option.

Dental implants are surgical fixtures that are inserted into the jawbone and allowed to fuse with the bone over the span of a few months. The implant acts as a replacement for the root of a missing tooth. It is the closest thing to a natural tooth because it stands on its own without affecting nearby teeth.

Dentures or dental bridges can be anchored on dental implants in small groups or in conjunction with a replacement crown for single tooth replacements. In the same way that the root of a natural tooth prevents bone loss, dental implants provide a strong, long-lasting solution to tooth loss.

The use of dental implants is a highly preferred option for tooth replacement due to their many benefits, which include:

  • A natural-looking smile: Dental implants resemble the appearance of your natural teeth, restoring your genuine smile.
  • Healthier teeth: Because implants can be anchored without modifying the surrounding tooth structure, more of your natural teeth are preserved and intact.
  • Speech Enhancement: When non-anchored removable dentures slip within the mouth, they can cause slurred or mumbled speech. Implants are permanent, therefore eliminating this concern.
  • Comfort: Dental implants provide a comfortable alternative to removable dentures that can move and cause discomfort.
  • Functionality: An implant works like a natural tooth, allowing you to continue to eat the foods you enjoy.
  • Durability: Stability, strength, and stain resistance are all characteristics of dental implants.
  • Bone loss prevention: Loss of teeth can lead to empty spaces in the jaw, causing the jawbone to deteriorate. Dental implants provide a stable root that attaches to the bone, thereby preventing bone loss.
  • Built to last: Every 5 to 7 years, dentures need to be replaced. Properly maintained, dental implants can last a lifetime.

An implant may be the right solution for you if you have one or more missing teeth. To determine if you are an appropriate candidate for dental implants, it is important to consider your oral and overall health. Here are some factors to consider:

  • Anchoring the implant with adequate bone support
  • The gums are healthy.
  • Nerve and sinus locations
  • Your overall health, including any chronic illnesses you may have,

If you would like to learn more about dental implants, we invite you to schedule a consultation at our dental office. Our goal is to help you once again have a healthy, beautiful smile.

Paul Taylor, DMD- Advanced Dentistry
Phone: (858) 496-7521
4320 Genesee Ave., Suite 101
San Diego , CA 92117

How to Prevent Dry Socket | San Diego Implant Dentist

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Dry socket is a temporary but painful complication of tooth extraction. It not only causes intense pain; it stalls the healing process. Fortunately, it is rare, temporary, and usually preventable. Here are the causes of dry socket as well as tips to prevent this condition after oral surgery and ensure a quick and comfortable recovery.

What is Dry Socket?

When a tooth is extracted, a blood clot forms in the space left behind. This clot helps to block the underlying bone, gum tissue, and nerves from bacterial infection or food debris. The clot is meant to stay in place while the extraction site heals. In a few cases the clot may not form correctly or it becomes dislodged. This leaves the wound exposed, a condition called alveolar osteitis, or dry socket.

The most common sign of dry socket is a deep, throbbing pain from within the extraction area. Sometimes the trapped food or infection creates an unpleasant odor, causing bad breath and a bad  taste in the mouth. If this happens, call our office right away.

What Causes Dry Socket?

Developing dry socket is rare, but certain factors can put you at increased risk. Poor oral hygiene, sucking motions, oral contraceptives, and gum infection around the extraction site are all risk factors. One of the top culprits is smoking. Studies show that 12 percent of people who smoke after a tooth extraction will develop this condition, compared with only 4 percent of nonsmokers.

Why? The inhaling action can break the blood clot loose. It is also believed that the chemicals in tobacco products can delay healing. To prevent dry socket, avoid smoking a few weeks before and after the procedure. Our dentist can help advise you on smoking cessation steps.

Other causes of dry socket include drinking with straws, and brushing or rinsing the extraction area vigorously during the healing process. Follow your post-treatment instructions and contact our office if you have questions.

Treatment of Dry Socket

If you develop a dry socket, we can offer quick, effective treatment. Our team will flush the extraction site to remove any debris and pack it with gauze or other dressing. We may prescribe medication to help reduce discomfort. It is important to attend follow-up appointments to ensure your timely recovery.

Remember that dry socket is rare, temporary, and treatable. Our experienced dental team will guide you throughout your recovery. For more information on post-extraction care, contact our office in San Diego, CA.

Paul Taylor, DMD- Advanced Dentistry
Phone: (858) 496-7521
4320 Genesee Ave., Suite 101
San Diego , CA 92117

Dentist San Diego | Modern Dentistry: Managing TMD Discomfort

Discomfort and pain in your jaw, clicking while you talk or chew, and swelling on the sides of your face can be caused by Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD). TMD can make talking and eating both painful and uncomfortable. Our San Diego dentist understands how TMD can make your day a challenge. We’ve compiled a list of helpful tips for managing TMD discomfort, but also encourage you to schedule a visit to see us for a full evaluation.

Finding Relief at Home

If your jaw is swollen, try applying a cold compress to your face. We recommend holding the compress in place for about 10 minutes. If you are able, try a few gentle jaw stretches. After the cold compress, apply warm, moist heat to the same area. You can keep this warm compress in place for an additional 5 to 10 minutes.

If your discomfort is particularly noticeable, try over-the-counter pain relievers such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or ibuprofen. If you find yourself taking pain relieving medications daily, please contact our San Diego dentist immediately.

The “Don’ts” of TMD

Applying excess pressure to your jaw can make your TMD discomfort worse. Don’t use your hand as a rest for your chin, as doing so increases the amount of pressure and strain placed on your jaw. If you talk on the phone frequently, avoid holding the phone on your shoulder while bending your neck to keep it in place.

Clenching your jaw and keeping your teeth tightly closed can also lead to a build-up of pressure in the jaw. During the day, try to keep your teeth from touching. By create a little space between your teeth, you will be relieving pressure from your jaw.

Contact Us

Our dentist in San Diego, Dr. Paul Taylor, is here to help you. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Taylor to learn more about the solutions available for people just like you dealing with TMD discomfort. We will provide a thorough examination to determine the best course of treatment for your TMD.

Relief may be closer than you think. Contact our San Diego dentist to learn more today.

Paul Taylor, DMD- Advanced Dentistry
Phone: (858) 496-7521
Url: https://sandiegoca.dentist/
4320 Genesee Ave., Suite 101
San Diego , CA 92117

Dentist in San Diego | Optimal Gum Health for Seniors

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For seniors, it is imperative that gum health is a top priority. As you age, your risk of developing periodontal (gum) disease increases. Periodontal disease is both preventable, and in many cases, reversible. When left untreated, it can lead to more serious complications such as bloody or swollen gums, and even tooth loss. Even more alarming are the numerous studies connecting periodontal disease to other serious illnesses. Here’s what you need to know about gum health as you age.

Periodontal Disease and Your Overall Health

Periodontal disease has been linked to serious health issues. In fact, a recent study conducted by the University of Southampton and King’s College London uncovered a link between periodontal disease and an increase in the rate of cognitive decline in those who suffer from early Alzheimer’s disease. In patients with periodontal disease, the study found cognitive decline underwent a rapid change, occurring six times as fast on average.

Periodontal disease has also been found to increase your risk of developing heart disease or having a stroke. Risk factors for these serious issues increase with age, among other causes, and it is especially important to limit potential risk factors where possible. This can be as easy as improving your gum health with a visit to our office.

The Numbers You Need to Know

According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, moderate or severe periodontal disease was found in over 14% of seniors aged 65 to 74. The number increases to more than 20% for those over 75 years of age. Men were found to be more likely than women to have moderate to severe periodontal disease. Smoking was also found to have a significant impact. The same study showed 32% of current smokers had periodontal disease, compared to 14% for those who never smoked.

Steps You Can Take

As you age, it is essential to keep up with your gum health. Doing so is an important link in lowering your risk factors for other serious ailments such as heart disease, stroke, and the impacts of Alzheimer’s disease. You can keep your gums healthy by brushing twice each day for a full two minutes. Be sure to regularly floss your teeth as well. Flossing is an effective way to clean the hard-to-reach cracks and gaps where plaque builds up. Schedule a visit with our team for a complete gum evaluation. We can work with you to devise a course of action to ensure healthy gums.

4320 Genesee Ave., Suite 101, San Diego, CA 92117

Resources:

https://www.nidcr.nih.gov/datastatistics/finddatabytopic/gumdisease/periodontaldiseaseseniors65over.htm

https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2016/03/160310141330.htm

San Diego Dentist | Can Regular Dental Visits Help Prevent Pneumonia?

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Pneumonia is a common infection of the lungs, usually affecting older adults or those with immunodeficiencies, though anyone can fall ill. However, did you know that going to your dentist can help prevent your risk of pneumonia? While your oral health and your respiratory system are usually thought of as entirely separate, research has shown a curious connection between them.

The Bacteria of your Mouth

You may be surprised to hear that your body is full of bacteria — both beneficial and harmful alike. Your mouth itself is host to many cultures alone, and has defenses in place to ensure your health and your safety. Saliva can help keep oral bacteria in check, but it isn’t a failsafe. Bacteria like streptococcus or staphylococcus can invade through your oral cavity and make it to your lungs, causing infection and pneumonia. So how can you bolster your body’s defenses?

Dental Visits and Pneumonia

Regular dental visits are one of the most significant ways of retaining optimal oral health, salivary regularity, and other forms of homeostasis. When dental visits are foregone, tooth decay can set in, disrupting oral health. Bacteria may then have an easier time making their way through your mouth and throat. A study in 2013 showed that in a sample size of almost 30,000 individuals, those who did not follow regular dental visits had an 86 percent higher risk of developing pneumonia than those with regular, twice-yearly appointments.

The Mechanisms Behind It All

While brushing and flossing can help control the amount of oral bacteria you have, plaque removal requires a dental cleaning to truly combat. With proper dental care, the amount of oral bacteria present can be limited to a safe degree — which, in turn, limits the amount that may aspirate into your lungs and cause infection.

If you have seen delays in your dental visit schedule, don’t hesitate any longer. Protect your oral health, reduce your risk for pneumonia, and make your future brighter with a smile. Contact our office to set up an appointment today.

4320 Genesee Ave.,
Suite 101, San Diego, CA 92117

Phone: (858) 496-7521

Dentist in San Diego | Common Cases for Oral Surgery

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You probably have some pre-conceived notions about oral surgery. You might think of it as a worst-case resort for people with particularly serious oral health issues. Maybe you assume that all oral surgery procedures are painful, invasive, and take a while to fully heal. However, there are plenty of reasons an individual could benefit from oral surgery, and not all procedures are going to require the same amount of healing. Below are some common issues that can be resolved by oral surgery. Contact our team today to learn more if you think you could benefit from one of these procedures.

Restoring Missing Teeth

Dental implants are a permanent solution for missing teeth. An implant is fixed to your jawbone and a cosmetic crown that mimics the look and function of a natural tooth is fixed on top. Implants can help restore the function of missing teeth as well as keep the adjacent teeth from shifting in the mouth.

Resolving TMJ and Bite Alignment Issues

A misaligned bite can cause any number of issues. From a clicking sensation and pain in the jaw to excess wear and tear on your teeth as they rub against each other, misalignment can easily spiral into a number of other oral health issues.

Removing Problem Teeth

The majority of people find that they need to have their wisdom teeth removed at some point in their lives. Additionally, other teeth may need to be extracted due to damage or infection. Removing problem teeth can help protect overall oral health and give the rest of your teeth room in your mouth.

Repairing Facial Trauma

After sustaining a traumatic facial injury, an individual might need to undergo oral surgery to help repair and rebuild the delicate structures found in the mouth. Whether damaged teeth need to be extracted and replaced with implants or the jaw needs to be reset, the extent of the surgery will depend on the injuries sustained.

Don’t let a limited understanding of oral surgery stop you from receiving the care you might need. To learn more about all the potential benefits of oral surgery, contact our dental team today!

4320 Genesee Ave.,
Suite 101, San Diego, CA 92117

Phone: (858) 496-7521

An Important Reminder About Your Next Dental Appointment

dentist in 92117At times, life can seem to move quickly. Between work, school, sports, and social events, it can seem there is little time left for you and your health. It’s imperative for a healthy mouth and body to always have your next dental appointment scheduled and to prioritize this care. Our team will work with you to find the most convenient day and time for you. If you need to reschedule, we will do our best to accommodate you. Advanced notice of a change is greatly appreciated, whenever possible. Missed appointments without notice are harmful to our practice, as we’ve reserved your appointment time exclusively for you.

Missed dental appointments can lead to worsened oral and overall health. Whether receiving preventive or restorative care, if left without professional treatment, plaque and decay will progress and the state of your oral health will likely decline. Some of our patients are predisposed to more frequent oral health issues. Many times, these guests prefer more frequent office visits. Please know this is an option for you as well. Investing in one extra cleaning each year can often prevent more costly concerns.

We know it can be tempting to skip your dental appointment. Perhaps you’d rather be relaxing at home or you’ve had a last-minute obligation arise. Please make every effort to prioritize your healthy smile, as it significantly contributes to your overall health.

Please know we’re here for you. If you have any questions about our care or practice philosophy, don’t hesitate to contact us.

Dry Mouth – Not Just a Nuisance

Dentist Clairemont San DiegoNormal flow of saliva provides lubrication for swallowing and begins the process of digestion while you chew. Saliva also protects your teeth by neutralizing and washing away acids, sugars, and other particles left behind after eating. From time to time, we all experience some amount of dry mouth. Hot weather, exercise, and dehydration can all cause a temporary decrease in saliva production. However, if you have chronic dry mouth, or xerostomia, you could be at risk of serious oral health complications.

Some of the oral health issues commonly associated with dry mouth include:

  • Much higher rates of tooth decay
  • Oral yeast infection
  • Bad breath (halitosis)
  • Periodontal (gum) disease
  • Constant sore throat
  • Soft tissue infections
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Denture discomfort

The most common cause of chronic dry mouth is medication. More than 400 over-the-counter and prescription medications include dry mouth as a frequent side effect. Dry mouth is also associated with stress, autoimmune and other systemic diseases, hormonal changes, radiation or chemotherapy treatment for cancers, and salivary gland disease.

You may find relief from dry mouth through a variety of methods. Some easy options to help alleviate your dry mouth include:

  • Increased water intake
  • Sugar-free candies or gum
  • Artificial saliva, as recommended by doctor or dentist
  • Alcohol-free mouthwash
  • Limiting alcohol, caffeine, and carbonated soft drinks
  • Use a humidifier to add moisture to the air in your home
  • Change in medication, only as directed by doctor

Brush and floss regularly to help prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and other complications.

If you are experiencing dry mouth, make an appointment and be sure to tell our team. We will review your medications and perform a thorough dental exam to check for any potential underlying oral health issues.

For more information about dry mouth, contact our office.

Healthy is the New Beautiful

Cosmetic dentistry has been around for ages. We’ve noticed that now, more than ever, people are concerned with overall wellness in addition to a beautiful smile. In past years, we had many patients come to us seeking whitening and seeming unconcerned with ridding their smile of infection and decay.

More recently, however, mainstream news has joined our efforts to educate the public on the oral & overall health connection. This has led to patients seeking care that will contribute to overall wellness. We’ve experienced a surge in questions such as:

  • Does periodontal disease really increase my odds of heart disease?
  • Does untreated decay lead to root canal therapy and risk eventual loss of the tooth?
  • Do oral lesions signify potential oral cancer? How is that screened and treated?

This increase in “Dental IQ” is leading to more comprehensive care for our community. It’s allowing us to provide dentistry which we know is in the best interest of our patients. Dentistry is not only about the aesthetic appeal of your smile. As many of our patients have been learning, valuable overall health benefits go hand-in-hand with preventive and restorative dental care.

If you’re seeking a dentist that contributes to your overall health and wellness, contact us today.