Tag: cosmetic dentist in San Diego

It is common knowledge that many people don’t like going to our 92117 dentist, but waiting until you feel pain may be a bad idea. We all make time to clean out our homes, cars, garages, and closets twice a year. Your oral health should be part of your “to-do” list as well.

Maintaining regular appointments is essential

Routine examinations and dental cleanings are essential to maintaining optimal oral health. Regular dental visits are your best defense against tooth decay, periodontal disease, and oral cancer. Identifying and treating an oral infection as early as possible will have a positive effect and will make the treatment procedure less invasive. You should see your dentist regularly, twice a year. It is vital to your oral health to have your teeth cleaned and x-rayed to determine whether you have decay. It may be recommended that you get a fluoride treatment to help remineralize tooth enamel and prevent decay. Be sure to schedule an appointment with our dental office so we can help maintain your oral health.

Do you have a fear of dentists?

Many people are apprehensive about going to the dentist. In a study conducted in conjunction with the American Dental Association, the HDI institute identified several of these reasons for delaying dental treatment: anxiety, low perception of need, cost, and time. We could, however, be allowing more severe issues to develop if we allow these problems to keep us from seeking dental care.

Conditions that require a trip to the dentist.

The American Dental Association recommends cleanings and exams twice a year. You should also schedule an appointment if you suffer from any of the following conditions: 

• You’re experiencing facial, tooth, or mouth pain.
• Injuries to the mouth, teeth, or face.
• You have a condition that increases your risk of poor oral health, such as diabetes.
• You are expecting.
• Jaw pain or stiffness in the jaw.
• Bleeding, swollen, or red gums. 
• Recent dental work, such as fillings, crowns, implants, or root canals,
• Having difficulty eating or drinking due to pain or discomfort is a sign.
• Dry mouth that persists.
• The use of tobacco or smoking.
• Mouth sores that do not heal.
• You are concerned about your dental hygiene, or you have questions about it.

Maintaining good oral health is essential to your overall well-being. Problems with your teeth and gums can lead to serious health issues.

Our dentist can assist you in maintaining optimum oral health. If you would like to schedule an appointment, please contact our San Diego, CA dental office.

Our patients often ask us how to improve the appearance of stained teeth or how to close the gaps between their teeth. When it comes to improving your smile, veneers are an option you may consider. When deciding if veneers would be a good choice for you, consider the following factors shared by our San Diego dentist:

Veneers: what is it?

Dental veneers are thin, custom-made shells placed over the front of the teeth to enhance their appearance. They can conceal stains, chips, and uneven surfaces of the teeth. Veneers are usually made of dental porcelain and are designed to cover teeth rather than replace them. 

How do veneers work?

Veneers can repair chipped or broken teeth, reduce noticeable gaps between teeth, or remove stains from teeth. When veneers are placed over your teeth, the structure of your teeth is not altered. The dentists carefully measure each tooth’s size to ensure a perfect fit. 

When choosing veneers, consider these factors:

• Veneers are affixed to the teeth and can only be removed by a dentist. Generally, veneers last between 15 and 20 years, although it is possible for them to last longer.
• With porcelain veneers, people often assume that whiter is better, but this is not always the case. You should choose a shade that looks natural.
• A veneer is similar to a tooth in that it can chip and crack, so people need to take precautions when wearing one. It is possible to use them for many years without much maintenance, but some considerations need to be made.
• There are some people who get veneers on all of their teeth, but it is not always necessary. There are times when just a few teeth require veneers.
• Porcelain dental veneers are generally preferred over resin veneers because they are more stain-resistant. Although proper oral hygiene is still necessary, these veneers are less likely to discolor.
• Right now, veneers are in great demand, but that does not mean that everyone can get them. A dentist must examine patients before approving them for veneers.
• Veneers and implants are two different things. A veneer is attached to the natural tooth, which acts as a base. The veneer is very thin, so it does not protrude.
• They are not covered by most insurance policies. Individuals are encouraged to contact their insurance provider to determine if this procedure is covered.

The use of veneers is a great way to correct minor tooth issues like discoloration, gaps, and misalignment. If you would like to know if you are a good candidate for veneers, contact our dental office in San Diego, CA to schedule an appointment. We can provide you with detailed information on how to obtain the smile you have always wanted.

In the United States, there are almost 65 million people with periodontal disease and approximately 30 million have diabetes. Diabetes and gum disease may be linked through a two-way process. Patients with diabetes are more likely to develop gum disease, and patients with gum disease are at an increased risk for other diabetic complications.

Risk Factors for Patients with Diabetes

Managing blood sugar levels is key for those with diabetes. The higher the blood sugar level, the higher the risk of:

• Tooth decay – The mouth naturally contains a wide range of bacteria. Bacteria form a white, sticky film that develops around the gum line, known as plaque. Starches and sugars in food and drinks interact with these bacteria, forming acids that can attack the teeth and lead to cavities. When you have a high blood sugar level, the greater the supply of sugar, the more acidic the teeth become.
• Gum disease – This is a chronic bacterial infection of the gums that affects the gum tissue and bone that supports the teeth. Over time, the buildup of plaque bacteria will eventually harden into calcium deposits called calculus or tartar at the gumline. Brushing and flossing will not remove this hardened buildup of plaque. If this buildup is not removed by your dental office, it will cause inflammation of the gums, known as gingivitis. This will eventually spread to the underlying bone and can cause bone loss.
• Fungal infection – A yeast infection can often be found as lesions on the skin, mouth, and throat. Candida infections of the mouth occur frequently and are treated with special mouthwashes, antifungal medication, and by controlling blood sugar levels.
• Dry mouth – Uncontrolled diabetes decreases saliva flow and causes dry mouth, which can increase the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. It can also affect chewing, speaking, swallowing, and the ability to taste. Sipping water throughout the day can help relieve dry mouth.

Prevention and Oral Care

In order to prevent infections and complications that can damage teeth and gums, people with diabetes must take their condition and oral care seriously by doing the following:

• Keep an eye on your blood sugar levels and keep them within the normal range.
• Schedule regular hygiene appointments with your dental office.
• Look for early signs of gum disease.
• Refrain from using tobacco products.
• Maintain good oral hygiene.

With diabetes increasing your overall risk of gum disease and tooth decay, it is vital that you have good oral hygiene habits and see your dentist regularly. You can control the risks associated with diabetes and avoid the potential for extensive dental treatment in the future. Please contact our dental office to schedule an appointment.