Possible Connection between Breast Feeding and Lower Chance of Crossbites
The World Health Organization advocates that mothers should breastfeed their children exclusively for the first six months of a child's life. Breastfeeding furnishes benefits for both mothers and their children. Only breastfeeding amplifies craniofacial development. Furthermore, breastfeeding has been demonstrated to deter non-nutritive sucking habits. Research has established that breastfeeding for less than six months or not at all can lead to malocclusion and posterior crossbite.
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Preventing Common Dental Diseases
Dental health is an important component to an individual's overall health. Many people neglect their oral health, leading to detrimental effects. For instance, an oral cavity can seem harmless, however it contains millions of bacteria, which can lead to acute oral and dental health issues in the future. Oral health complications range from trivial irritations to severe pain. Most of these issues can be prevented by with a consistent oral health routine. Our Los Angeles dentist recommends brushing two to three times per day, flossing regularly and visiting your dentist for check-ups to ensure a lifetime of good oral health.
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Importance of Healthy Gums
The role of healthy gums within the mouth is a crucial one. If you brush and floss on a regular basis, you should be able to remove most pieces of plaque before they harden into calculus. Calculus, which is a concrete-like material that builds up below the gum line, can lead to gingivitis and periodontal disease. If not treated in time, the gums themselves will become excessively swollen and may eventually recede from the teeth. In extreme cases, bone loss itself can occur, which can eventually lead to loose or missing teeth.
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Keeping Your Teeth and Gums Healthy
Visiting our Los Angeles dental exam and cleaning expert regularly is important when it comes to keeping your teeth and gums healthy. However, there are some things you can do at home that will help as well. Brush and Floss Regularly
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Teeth Whitening Techniques and Their Safety
Teeth whitening is a popular method designed to restore the original color of dental enamel. Teeth whitening techniques are intended to whiten teeth color while bleaching enables the teeth to look whiter than their original hue. There was a time where teeth whitening was limited to celebrities. However, today many professionals find teeth whitening as an essential component of a polished appearance. Due to escalating demand, many cosmetic procedures have become affordable.
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Poor Oral Health during Pregnancy
Some studies show just how important the health of one’s teeth and gums is to their own overall health and well-being. Patients with chronic issues such as periodontal disease will increase their risk of developing diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, and even dementia. Recently published research from Australia now shows that the state of one’s gums could also affect a woman before and during their pregnancy.
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Importance of Fruits and Vegetables for Healthy Teeth
Many individuals keep a careful eye on their diet for their own energy levels, weight, skin complexion, or countless other reasons. What some may not realize is just how dramatically one’s diet will affect the state of their oral health. Along with regular trips to our Los Angeles dentist and great dental hygiene habits, a well-balanced diet is exactly what is needed to have a bright and healthy smile.
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Women and the Fear of Dental Treatments
Studies that have recently been carried out by Sydney University have made some startling revelations. Women in specific age groups have the highest chance of experiencing fears and phobias over dental treatments, and will ignore tooth pain and other abnormalities as a result. This is why our Los Angeles dentist believes that all patients should understand the primary causes of dental phobias, and the steps that we can take to make every single visit to our practice as comfortable and pain-free as possible.
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How Fruit Juices Affect the Teeth
Fruit juices are often the cornerstone of a child’s diet as many parents would like their children to receive all the benefits that the vitamins and minerals offer. Recent studies have begun to show that there is one startling side effect from diets that are high in fruit juices, however, and that is damage to a child’s teeth. Without the assistance of our Los Angeles dentist, children could be facing sensitive teeth and even dental caries.
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Necessary Tooth Extractions
There are very few dental procedures that are as misunderstood and even feared as much as a dental extraction. Many patients are unsure how this treatment is carried out and why it would ever be necessary, and that is why our dentist in Los Angeles, CA has set out to inform all local patients about how important this procedure could be to their oral health and a few of the primary ailments that could make an extraction necessary.
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Brushing Your Teeth Could Help with Preventing Meningitis
Carrying out daily brushing and flossing habits is often done to keep one’s teeth bright and healthy, but there is a long list of serious health complications throughout the body that may be avoided with these few simple oral hygiene tasks according to new studies. This includes one potentially fatal infection known as meningitis, a condition that many patients could reduce their risks of contracting with regular brushing, flossing, and trips to our Los Angeles dentist.
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Healthy Foods for Your Teeth
When most people think about their oral health they consider the hygiene habits that they carry out within their own home and other regular treatments such as professional dental cleaning. There is one habit that is carried out every single day that will have a very large effect on both the appearance of a patient’s teeth as well as their oral health, and that is eating. All of the foods and beverages that are consumed can alter the state of both your teeth and gums, that is why everyone should give a little extra thought to their diet if they would like to preserve their smile.
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Many individuals hear that it is important to schedule regular dental checkups, but not everyone knows the exact reasons why these biannual appointments are so essential. Here is a look at just a few of the most compelling reasons that you and your loved ones should begin scheduling a comprehensive dental exam at least once every six months, beginning when a child’s first tooth erupts.
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It may often seem like a chore to get children into the dentist’s office, but parents that neglect their child’s oral health could be making a costly mistake. Those that do not receive comprehensive dental exams beginning when the first tooth erupts will be setting up their children for a lifetime of second-rate oral health. Here is a glimpse at the importance of dental health for kids and some of the steps that parents can take to help create healthy habits.
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Keeping your teeth and gums as healthy as possible will provide you with a number of benefits ranging from a brighter smile, improved confidence and lower chances for developing a number of serious ailments. This is why our dentist in Los Angeles, CA believes that all patients should understand just a few simple steps that can be taken to preserve their oral health and enjoy an attractive smile for years on end.
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Many individuals enjoy a glass of wine with their meals or when out with friends and studies have shown just how good wine can be for one’s heart as well as their overall health. Unfortunately, those that do not take care of their oral health may find that this habit can lead to a stained and discolored smile. Here is a look at the two manners in which wine can affect the teeth as well as the services provided by our Los Angeles cosmetic dentist that may allow wine drinkers to once again smile with confidence.
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There have always been countless reasons for individuals to keep up with their oral hygiene habits as well as schedule regular trips to our dentist in Los Angeles, CA at least once every six months. From maintaining a bright and straight smile to keeping one’s gums as healthy as possible, these quick and painless trips are one of the best habits that any patient can ever get in. There is now one more reason, however, in which some individuals may find that professional dental treatments are important to their heart health.
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There are a number of foods and food products that can be consumed that will dramatically alter the health of one’s mouth. From staining the outside of the teeth to providing calcium for the roots and dentin, everyone should remain aware of how their own diet is affecting their oral health. This includes licorice, one substance that has been the subject of recent research that shows just how advantageous this popular ingredient may be to a patient’s teeth and gums.
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One of the most difficult things that any individual will ever have to go through is quitting any number of tobacco products, but there are more studies than ever that have been carried out that connect these habits to serious health complications, including those that take place within the mouth. This is why our dentist in Los Angeles believes that all of our patients should be aware of the risks of smoking as well as a few steps that can be taken that will increase the chances that an individual will not succumb to any number of serious health complications including gum disease, tooth decay, and oral cancers.
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Porcelain veneers give our dentist the ability to quickly transform a smile, no matter what kind of damage has taken place. When properly cared for, they can last for years on end, and that is why all patients that have recently received dental veneers should understand the basics of keeping their transformed smile as bright and healthy as possible.
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Nearly everyone wants straight and bright teeth, but a great smile is often much harder to achieve than many would like to think. This can be especially difficult for patients that do not regularly seek out dental treatments and services. For patients that are currently struggling with a misaligned smile, here is a glimpse at how this condition is not only a cosmetic problem, but one that could lead to serious oral health complications if left untreated.
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Countless millions use tobacco products every single day, and attempting to quit these habits will be one of the most difficult undertakings that anyone will ever go through. While many individuals realize just how damaging these substances can be to their body, they may not realize the toll it can take on the appearance of their smile and their oral health. Without the assistance of our Los Angeles dentist, those that chew tobacco will be at en extremely high risk of periodontal disease, tooth staining, tooth loss, dental decay, and oral cancer.
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As the field of cosmetic dentistry continues to evolve, one of the first questions that many patients ask is which procedures are safe, and which have the potential to cause damage. This is especially true for the countless millions that have their teeth professionally whitened every single year in order to remove external staining and discoloration. Here is a look at the safety of teeth whitening, and the steps that our Los Angeles cosmetic dentist takes in order to keep our patients as healthy and happy as possible.
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It may often seem like scheduling regular dental checkups is somewhat of a chore, but these quick and painless appointments can often mean the difference between a patient that is enjoying great oral health, and one that is struggling with any number of serious medical conditions that could take a toll on their finances and their appearance. This is why our Los Angeles dentist believes that all patients should understand a few of the symptoms that could be an indicator that they should seek out professional dental treatments immediately.
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When most of us think about a beautiful smile and great oral health, we think about professional dental cleaning, brushing, flossing, the use of mouth wash, and a few other basic steps that will clear away bacteria and plaque as quickly as possible. One’s long-lasting oral health starts well before these few steps though, and maintaining a great smile will often begin with the foods that we eat.
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Teeth are one of the most important components of anyone’s body as they allow humans to carry out tasks ranging from the consumption of food to advanced vocalization. In addition to this, the teeth remain a cornerstone of an individual’s appearance, and those that do not have a smile that they are completely proud of will often suffer a blow to their confidence and begin shying away from some of the most important events in their life. As your Los Angeles cosmetic dentist, we understand just how essential a bright and attractive smile is, and that is why we are devoted to offering some of the most advanced dental services for all those that would like to fully transform their smile.
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No matter how healthy an individual is and how careful they are with their teeth and gums, it will not take much for damage, disease, and decay to begin taking place within the mouth at some point in a patient’s life. This is why our Los Angeles cosmetic dentist believes that all patients should remain aware of some of the most common dental problems and the services that we can perform to treat them.
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Even patients that are extremely careful about their oral health may find themselves slowly allowing their oral hygiene habits to slip over the years. This includes brushing, the cornerstone of a great smile and flawless oral health. This is why our Los Angeles dentist believes that all patients should understand the importance of brushing as well as regular dental checkups.
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Our cosmetic dentist in Los Angeles is proud to be able to offer some of the most effective treatments and services in the world that are going to allow you to achieve and maintain a beautiful smile. For those with serious amounts of trauma to the teeth, tooth decay, or internal discoloration, we may suggest the use of either dental caps or dental veneers. Here is a look at these two dental appliances and some of the key differences between them.
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Periodontal disease continues to be linked to serious health conditions throughout the body at an alarming rate. There is one recent study coming from Karolinska Institute in Sweden, however, that our Los Angeles dentist believes all women should be made aware of.
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Many of our patients are surprised to hear that one of our quickest and most common services is also one of our most important: professional teeth cleaning. While flossing and brushing are highly important to keeping one’s teeth and gums healthy, they are often not going to be enough to clear away some of the deeper pockets of plaque and tartar on the teeth.
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The mouth is often called the window into one’s health as the gums and teeth are often the first indicators of a number of serious health complications that are taking place throughout the body. This is why regular checkups with our dentist in Los Angeles are exceedingly important to maintain a bright smile as well as catching these conditions before they progress too far.
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One of the most heartbreaking side effects of eating disorders is the toll that they take on one’s oral health. Studies continue to be conducted that outline some of the serious medical conditions that individuals are under threat of if they are suffering from eating disorders such as anorexia and bulimia. This includes severe dental erosion, an oral health complication that is diagnosed in over 1 in 3 patients with some form of an eating disorder.
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Anytime that an individual’s body is going through any major hormonal or physical changes, their gums and teeth are always going to be affected. This is especially true for women that are approaching an age in which menopause is becoming a real possibility. If you would like to maintain great oral health throughout menopause, our Los Angeles dentist is here to provide you with the information and treatments that will allow you to steer clear of any serious complications.
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The British Dental Health Foundation has released a study carried out by Sweden’s Karolinska Institute that is giving patients just one more reason to keep up with their oral health: breast cancer. Our Los Angeles dentist believes that it is important for all patients to remain aware of many of the more serious complication that can take place in those with missing teeth and gum disease.
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Health professionals have recently begun looking towards the condition of the gums and teeth in order to understand one’s overall health and well-being. Many even refer to the mouth as the window into one’s overall health. One of the most important components of an individual's well-being in which the mouth is directly tied is the heart and blood. Our dentist in Los Angeles believes that everyone should understand some of the risks of gum disease and how regular checkups may be the answer to catching serious oral health conditions in their earliest stages.
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One of the most common health conditions in people around the world is periodontitis or some other form of gum disease. This inflammation of the gums and buildup of plaque can lead to a slew of health conditions that no patient is ever going to want to deal with. Luckily for those that may be experiencing this disease, our Los Angeles dentist offers some of the newest and most advanced treatments to put a halt to the damage and potentially reverse any of the major side effects.
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For busy residents of Southern California, it can often seem like there is not enough hours in the day to take care of everything that we need to do. This means that there is occasionally going to be times in which individuals must pick and choose what is priority and what can be put off. Unfortunately, one of the most common matters to neglect is regular visits to our dentist in Los Angeles. When this goes on too long, individuals are going to be putting themselves at serious risk for contracting any number of severe oral health diseases and afflictions.
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Flossing, brushing, and the use of mouthwash are paramount to everyone’s oral health and overall well-being. While it may seem simple enough to brush teeth or gargle with mouthwash, many patients have given up on flossing due to a misunderstanding on how it should be done. This is why our Los Angeles dentist believes that it is time for everyone to be refreshed on proper flossing techniques and some of its amazing benefits.
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From antihistamines to over-the-counter painkillers, almost everyone regularly takes medication in one form or another. While these prescription and OTC medications do fill some very important roles, they can also have an effect on teeth that very few patients realize. Our Los Angeles dentist believes that everyone should understand what their medications may be doing to their oral health and a few of the small steps they can take to minimize its effects.
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For those that have been diagnosed with HIV, regular trips to our Los Angeles dentist may be something that has been left by the wayside. This can be a sad event when years of research on this disease have shown that oral health conditions were a frequent and major problem of HIV-infected individuals. Here is a look at some of the leading issues that those with HIV should remain aware of in regards to their oral health.
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It may be odd to link oral health with one’s overall well-being, but the ties between the mouth and the rest of the body are startling. What many will find even more worrisome is the fact that basic oral hygiene may not take care of all of these problems. This is why everyone should maintain regular oral hygiene habits as well as making a regular trip to our dentist in Los Angeles.
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Expecting mothers have more reasons than ever to ensure that they are taking all of the right steps to keep themselves and their soon-to-be baby healthy. From a proper diet to a well-constructed exercise plan, it takes both time and energy to keep a body that is under continuous changes healthy. One of the most overlooked aspects of prenatal care is oral hygiene and health. This is why our Los Angeles dentist has set out to increase awareness of the link between oral health, a mother’s health, and the health of the fetus.
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Oral and facial injuries are common in our sports-crazy world. Children commonly appear at our Los Angeles dentist’s office with broken or missing teeth from a baseball gone awry, as well as adults who have been involved in car accidents or other trauma. Rebuilding your teeth is a difficult process; it is far better to use a bit of prevention to avoid oral injuries, if possible.
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Oral cancer is the sixth most common type of cancer in the United States. It has long been understood that smoking, HPV, and age are risk factors for oral cancer. However, new studies point to the fact that heavy consumption of alcohol can also be a risk factor, especially when combined with other high-risk behaviors. Drinking alcohol, especially when combined with smoking, increases your risk of developing oral cancer substantially.
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If you are a senior adult, you may believe that tooth loss is inevitable with age. However, our Los Angeles dentist wants you to know that this is a myth; you can have healthy, functional teeth your entire life with the proper dental care.
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An abscess is a swollen area beneath or around the tissues bordering a tooth that contain an accumulation of pus. The pus becomes trapped and cannot escape. A tooth abscess is generally the result of a bacterial infection which may be caused by extreme tooth decay, a crack or break in a tooth, food or other fragments that become lodged in the teeth and gums, or gum disease. When someone has a tooth abscess they will feel an incredibly painful throb or sudden shot of pain. Chewing and biting only serve to heighten the agony of an abscessed tooth.
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Vegetarian diets are becoming more popular in the face of concerns about high cholesterol and triglycerides. However, a diet which is completely deficient in animal products may cause health issues, especially tooth loss and gum disease.
Our Los Angeles dentist wants you to be aware of the dangers associated with vegetarian diets and what you can do to preserve your dental health.
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Most men only visit our Los Angeles dentist when they have an oral issue like persistent bad breath, loose or separating teeth, bleeding gums during brushing, and swollen, red or tender gums. These are all signs of periodontal disease, which can put men at a higher risk for strokes and heart attacks, as well as oral cancer. Periodontal treatments, such as dental implants or root canal treatment, may be necessary to ward off these problems or to correct any oral maladies.
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Gum disease can cause many oral problems like tooth loss and pain. However, it has also been linked to a variety of other health issues including strokes and heart attacks. People develop gum disease when bacteria-filled tarter and plaque accumulate on the teeth. Bacteria create an infection in the gums. When it is not treated, it spreads to bones and tissue that keep teeth in place. That infection or inflammation can also spread to vessels that lead to the brain and heart, making individuals more prone to strokes and heart attacks.
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It makes perfect sense that smoking can have a negative impact on your teeth. The smoke, nicotine and other chemicals in cigarettes go directly through the mouth. As a result, calculus or plaque can harden on the teeth, deep pockets can develop between the gums and the teeth, and the tissues and bones that support the teeth can be lost. All of these problems will bring on periodontal disease.
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Oral piercing is one of the latest fads sweeping the country, and many young people are flocking to piercing locations to have a tongue or lip piercing. While they may not consider the possible negative consequences of this action, our Los Angeles dentist wants you to be aware of potential health risks inherent in tongue and lip piercings.
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Yellow teeth have a negative impact on your self-confidence and self-esteem, since you know others are judging you by your smile. A person with yellow teeth is thought to have poor oral hygiene and a nonchalant attitude about their appearance. While a person's dental habits can definitely be a part of the problem, they are certainly not the only factor that gives rise to discolored teeth.
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Untreated orthodontic problems can lead to serious oral health issues. According to the American Dental Association, straighter teeth are associated with teeth that are easier to clean and healthier gums. Even though your primary reason for wanting straighter teeth may be cosmetic, orthodontic treatments may ultimately help you lead an overall healthier life. Your next step will be deciding whether to get traditional braces or Invisalign aligners. Our Los Angeles dentist can help you choose which may be right for you.
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Smoking has been linked to a growing list of medical conditions, including asthma, yellow teeth, and a long list of cancers, but if you needed more incentive to stop smoking you can add one of the most squirm inducing dental procedures to the list -- root canals.
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Some people may be born with beautiful smiles. Thankfully, for the rest of us, there are a variety of cosmetic dentistry procedures that can help. Our cosmetic dentist in Los Angeles can customize your smile through a smile makeover. Smile makeovers may include orthodontic treatment, teeth whitening, and dental veneers.
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If you are looking for an easy and quick way to permanently whiten your teeth, our Los Angeles dentist can tell you about a safe, effective procedure which will give you a perfect smile in less time than you would think possible!
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Your smile may well be one of the first things people notice about you. Teeth can become discolored for a number of reasons, however, leading you to become less satisfied with your smile over time. You may even lose self-confidence. If your teeth are stained or discolored, our Los Angeles dentist can help you determine the best treatment plan to restore them to their original luster and brightness.
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If you have teeth which are stained, chipped, broken, or discolored, our dentist in Los Angeles is ready to talk to you about the benefits of veneers and how they can change your appearance and your life.
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One of the most popular dentistry procedures available today is teeth whitening. Having a bright, beautiful smile is important to most people, and whitening your teeth is a quick, easy way to make you look your best.
Our dentist in Los Angeles can give you the very latest whitening treatment and a smile that will sparkle, no matter what your age! You, too, can have a smile that is brilliant and eye-catching, making you look years younger.
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Teeth can be knocked out or broken in accidents, especially those involving sports. Our Los Angeles dentist can help you save a lost tooth if you follow these instructions.
A tooth which has been knocked out should be located if possible and handled carefully. Hold the tooth by the edge rather than the root end to avoid hurting sensitive structures. If you can push the tooth gently back into place, do so; otherwise, place the tooth in milk, rather than water or ice, and take it immediately to a dentist. The window of opportunity for replacing lost teeth successfully is short, often no more than two hours, so time is of the essence.
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Teeth whitening is one of the most popular treatments in cosmetic dentistry today. Teeth often become stained over time due to things we eat or drink or due to the effects of aging or medical treatments. Whitening can turn back the hands of time, allowing us to look younger and feel more confident.
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A retainer is a device used in orthodontic treatment which allows your teeth to “retain” their new shape after braces. Retainers are often used after the removal of braces to prevent teeth from returning to their old configuration. Our Los Angeles dentist can discuss the need for retainers and their proper use with you.
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Our teeth have a smooth, protective enamel surface. As we age, the enamel thins, and the dentin begins to show through as a yellow tint. Stains collect in tiny cracks in the enamel, and our teeth become dull and discolored. Teeth whitening can restore them to their former glory and give us a whiter, more attractive smile. Our Los Angeles dentist has several effective teeth whitening options that can help restore your smile.
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The last molars to erupt from the gums are called wisdom teeth. Most people have between one and four wisdom teeth, and these molars generally appear when people are in their late teens to early twenties. Although some people may never experience problems with their wisdom teeth, many others experience impacted wisdom teeth that don't emerge or grow properly. Our Los Angeles dentist can help you discover how many wisdom teeth you have and whether or not they are impacted.
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A dental filling is a way to restore a decayed or fractured tooth to its original state. Without restoration, bacteria are able to gain access to the interior structure of the tooth, causing further damage. Several filling materials exist, but silver and white are the two most commonly used. If you have broken or decayed teeth, our Los Angeles dentist will explain the difference between silver and white fillings to help you decide which may be right for your situation. Silver fillings have a high metal content that makes them capable of withstanding strong bite forces. This makes them a good choice for back teeth, where aesthetics are generally less important.
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Whitening your teeth can give you a brighter smile and boost your self esteem. If you are interested in teeth whitening, you have several different options. Before you choose one, a visit to our Los Angeles dentist is in order to ensure your teeth and gums are in good health and determine which whitening option is right for you. Whitening toothpastes contain abrasives designed to remove superficial stains. They are not capable of altering the intrinsic color of your teeth, and their effects do not last once their use is discontinued.
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Energy drinks are an extremely popular choice for many teens and young adults today. These highly caffeinated, sugary beverages may give people the boost of energy they need to get through their school- or work-day, but the long-term health ramifications associated with these drinks can be profound. Regardless of how well you care for your teeth, they are at risk if you regularly consume energy drinks. That's because energy drinks are composed of fruit juices, sugar, chemicals, and acids that quickly begin to erode the enamel on your teeth. Dental enamel is the hardest substance in your body, but because it is not a living substance, your body cannot repair it. Once it has been eroded, it cannot be restored.
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Researchers recently found that while an apple may keep the doctor away, it may be twice daily tooth brushing that helps keep heart disease at bay. Their study, which was reported in the British Medical Journal in 2010, revealed that study participants who brushed more frequently also tended to show reduced levels of C-reactive protein and fibrinogen. These are inflammatory markers associated with a higher risk of heart disease. Only 62 percent of the Scottish Health Survey study participants regularly sought dental care on the recommended twice yearly schedule.
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Canker sores may be considered common and harmless, but if you are one of the 20 percent of people prone to them, you know they are also extremely painful. Canker sores can even interfere with your normal eating, drinking, or oral hygiene habits. Depending on their severity and frequency, treatment of canker sores may include at-home care or prescription medications from our Los Angeles cosmetic dentist. Canker sores are small, crater-like white or yellow sores inside the mouth, but they are not contagious.
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According to the March of Dimes, more than half a million babies are born prematurely every year in the United States. Babies born before 37 weeks of gestation may face grave health risks throughout their lives. Respiratory infections, cerebral palsy, vision and hearing loss, learning and behavioral problems, mental retardation, and adult health conditions like type two diabetes and heart disease have all been linked to prematurity. Although the number of preterm births has increased sharply since the early 1980s, the cause is still largely unknown. However, a recent study published in the Journal of Clinical Microbiology revealed that oral bacteria may be linked to as many as 80 percent of these births.
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Healthy gums play a critical role in maintaining your oral health. Unfortunately, many adults suffer from gum, or periodontal, disease. Periodontal disease is an infection of the gingiva, or gum tissue, that has been linked to a number of serious health issues, including pregnancy complications, cardiovascular disease, and respiratory infections. For most people, periodontal disease is almost entirely preventable with proper oral hygiene. Proper oral hygiene habits along with regular dental care by our Los Angeles cosmetic dentist can help you lower your periodontal disease risk and improve your oral and overall health.
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Periodontal disease, also called gum disease, has been linked through research to a host of serious health concerns, from pregnancy complications and stroke to heart disease and cancer. New research now links periodontal disease to respiratory disease as well. It may not only worsen conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or COPD, but it can also cause illnesses like bronchitis, emphysema, and pneumonia. Periodontal disease may initially appear as a seemingly innocent pink stain on dental floss or as receding gums.
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Plaque is a film that develops on teeth thanks to the bacteria and sugars in the foods we eat. Plaque that is not effectively removed may develop into tartar, a hardened deposit that is also called calculus. Once tartar has developed, you will need to make a visit to our Los Angeles cosmetic dentist to have it professionally removed through a process called scaling. Plaque begins to develop quite quickly after a meal or snack, and the bacteria in our mouths begin to launch an acidic attack against the enamel of our teeth, softening them and making them vulnerable to decay.
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Dental plaque is a thin film that accumulates on the surface of your teeth thanks to the bacteria that feed off the tiny particles of food left after a meal or snack. If this plaque is not regularly removed from teeth, it can begin to harden in as little as 48 hours. Once plaque hardens into tartar, you will need to visit our Los Angeles cosmetic dentist to have it professionally removed. Plaque can lead to a host of oral health problems including tooth decay and gum disease, but good oral hygiene habits can help prevent it from accumulating in the first place. First, a soft-bristled toothbrush should be used to gently remove the plaque and bacteria from teeth twice a day.
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Did you know that your every-six-month visit to our Los Angeles cosmetic dentist includes not just a cleaning and polishing but also a thorough examination for signs of gum disease, decay, and even signs of oral cancer? Oral cancer can appear simply as a sore or a growth that doesn't go away, and it may appear anywhere on the soft tissues of the mouth. Because it spreads so quickly, if it is not detected and treated early, it can be deadly. Several factors can increase your risk of developing oral cancer, including:
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Research has shown that your oral health is closely linked to your overall health, making your oral hygiene routine just as important to your daily health practices as your diet and exercise. Brushing alone may not be enough to keep your teeth and gums healthy. Learn how to maintain optimum oral health and gain the maximum benefits from your oral hygiene habits. • Brush teeth thoroughly at least twice daily or after meals by holding a soft-bristled toothbrush at a 45 degree angle and using fluoride toothpaste. Change your toothbrush every three months or whenever bristles appear worn.
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Late night snacking is an easy habit to develop. A bowl of popcorn while enjoying an evening movie or a glass of milk while watching a late night talk show may seem to help you relax or wind down. The problem with late night snacking is that it can not only increase your waistline but also damage your oral health. A Danish study assessed the records of 2,200 adults, some of whom ate at least 25 percent of their daily calories at night or who woke to have snacks. These late night eaters were found to have lost more teeth than other participants over a period of six years. This tooth loss appeared to be independent of diabetes status, smoking habits, and even the type of food eaten.
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Gum disease is an infection that affects the gums, teeth, and supporting tissue and jawbone. Gum disease is caused by plaque and tartar build-up on the teeth. Plaque develops when microscopic food particles combine with saliva and produce a sticky substance that adheres to teeth and feeds bacteria. Plaque that is not effectively cleaned from teeth develops into tartar, a hard deposit that can only be removed by dental treatment. If you notice signs of gum disease, including redness and swelling, bleeding during flossing or brushing, bad breath, a receding gum line, or loose teeth, it is important that you visit our Los Angeles cosmetic dentist for an assessment an
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An estimated 100 million Americans experience dental anxiety. For many, fear or anxiety associated with dental work prevents them from visiting the dentist when they need dental care. Unfortunately, avoiding the dentist out of anxiety and fear can lead to severe oral health concerns. Regular dental visits and timely treatment can prevent more serious oral health problems in the future. If you experience dental phobia, sedation dentistry may be an option to help you become more comfortable and relaxed during treatment. Several levels of sedation in dentistry are available, including light sedation with the use of nitrous oxide, conscious sedation using a combination of nitrous oxide and oral tranquilizers, or IV sedation for those with very severe anxiety.
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Osteoporosis is a condition in which bone tissue deteriorates and becomes porous. It can cause fragile bones throughout the body and make hips, spines, and other bones more susceptible to fracture. A study published in the Journal of Periodontology in 2007 found a link between osteoporosis and tooth loss as well. Declining jawbone density may lead to a number of dental problems, including lost teeth. More than 30 percent of Americans over the age of 65 have suffered from lost teeth. Women with osteoporosis have a three times higher risk of tooth loss than other women.
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An old wives’ tale once said that women lost a tooth for every birth. In fact, while it’s true that pregnancy can impact a woman’s oral health, the reverse is also true: A woman’s oral health can have a significant impact on the health of her pregnancy and baby. The increased levels of progesterone and estrogen can lead to mild inflammation of gum tissue. This inflammation is called pregnancy gingivitis and may lead to swollen or red gums and mild bleeding during brushing or flossing. Nearly ¾ of all pregnant women may suffer from pregnancy gingivitis, which usually decreases in the final trimester.
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The TMJ in the term TMJ disorders stands for the temporomandibular joint. This joint allows the jaw to open and close, slide back and forth, and permits chewing, swallowing, and talking. The end result is that it is one of the most frequently used joints in the entire human body. TMJ disorders can develop when the articular disc that conditions the working parts of the jaw and ensures a smooth gliding movement begins to wear or shifts out of place. As the jaw closes, the disc will move back into place with a popping noise. The nerves and joint can become inflamed due to the lack of cartilage and cause pain and sensitivity.
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Good brushing habits, regular flossing, and visits to the dentist can all help reduce your risk of cavities, but there is one more thing you can do to keep your mouth healthy: Eat a healthy diet. What to Eat Certain vitamins and minerals are essential to healthy teeth. Calcium is essential to building both strong teeth and bones. Many people know that calcium is continually lost from the bones, but it is also lost from teeth. Eating a diet rich in this mineral in the form of non-fat milk, yogurt, calcium-fortified OJ, and dark leafy veggies can help keep your teeth (and bones!) strong for life.
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One of the most popular cosmetic treatments in dentistry today is whitening. A single whitening treatment by our Los Angeles cosmetic dentist can leave your teeth brighter and several shades whiter, but regular brushing, flossing, and dental visits are necessary to maintain that newly freshened color. Many lifestyle habits can deposit unwanted stains on your teeth that simple cleaning may not be able to remove. Eating brightly or deeply colored foods that can stain clothes may also stain your newly whitened teeth. Berries, cherries, grapes, pomegranates, curries, soy sauce, and tomato-based sauces are all common culprits, as are artificially colored candies and gum.
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Has fear or anxiety kept you from necessary dental treatment? While our Los Angeles dentist works hard to ensure each patient is comfortable and relaxed throughout his or her treatment, some people may still experience anxiety or fear when it comes to dental treatment. Nitrous oxide, sometimes called sedation dentistry, may be an option for the estimated one-third of people who suffer from some form of dental anxiety. It can also be helpful for those with a sensitive gag reflex. What is nitrous oxide?
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Several recent studies have linked gum disease and cardiovascular disease. Those who have the bacteria that cause gum disease or periodontal disease also tend to have thicker carotid arteries, which are strongly linked to both heart attack and stroke.
People suffering from periodontal disease are nearly 2 times as likely to have coronary artery disease as those who have healthier mouths, but gum disease is not the only culprit linked to heart problems: Cavities, missing teeth, and other oral health problems are also good indicators of cardiovascular disease and even high cholesterol levels. In fact, oral health is a remarkably accurate snapshot into a person’s overall heart health.
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If you’ve visited our Los Angeles dentist and learned you’ve got gum disease, you’re not alone: As many as three-quarters of American adults have some form of gum disease. Although you know gum disease is a highly treatable condition when caught early, you may be left scratching your head as to why you have it at all. Preventable risk factors for gum disease Tobacco use is one of the biggest preventable risk factors for gum disease. Smokers are estimated to be more than 10 times as likely as nonsmokers to have the bacteria linked to gum disease. Smoking marijuana has also been linked to gum disease.
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A healthy mouth begins at home with good dental hygiene such as daily flossing, and twice daily brushing, but regular dental checkups are also very important to the health of your mouth. While some people only visit the dentist when they experience pain or an obvious oral health problem like a cracked or broken tooth, regular dental checkups help maintain the health of your mouth and your appearance and can even improve your overall health.
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Most people are aware that stress can create a number of health problems from headaches to weight gain, but it can affect oral health as well. Chronic stress, depression, and even periods of temporary stress can be detrimental to a person’s oral health. If you are struggling with stress, it is important to talk to our dentist in Los Angeles about maintaining your oral health. Stress Directly Affects Oral Health
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Saliva lubricates and disinfects the mouth, assists in digestion, protects the teeth from decay by washing away plaque, and keeps the mouth comfortably wet. Healthy people usually produce 1-½ pints of saliva a day. When the production of saliva slows or stops, however, the mouth can feel dry and uncomfortable and both eating and speaking can be difficult. Dry mouth condition, or Xerostomia, is more than just a matter of comfort: Health issues such as infection, gingivitis, thrush, and tooth decay can arise when saliva production is insufficient. Causes of Dry Mouth
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Diabetes is a disease that can affect every part of the body, including the mouth. Diabetes increases the incidence of dry mouth, slow healing, gingivitis, and thrush. While high levels of sugar in the saliva of some diabetics can increase the risk of cavities and other oral health problems, good oral hygiene, healthy blood sugar levels, and proper dental care can keep your mouth as healthy as possible. Oral Hygiene for People with Diabetes
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Tooth grinding, also called bruxism, includes grinding the molars or incisors as well as clenching the jaw muscles. Most people do it from time to time, but for some, the grinding is so severe or regular that it can create serious oral health issues. Tooth grinding is a subconscious activity that often occurs at night, and many times those who grind their teeth are unaware of their habit. Causes of Tooth GrindingTooth grinding can have several different causes. Many believe it is caused strictly by stress or anxiety, but this is not always the case.
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Bad breath can be embarrassing, but it is both preventable and treatable. Before you let bad breath interfere with your social, professional, or personal life, learn about the causes and treatments and control it before it controls you. Causes of Bad Breath While chronic health conditions such as diabetes mellitus can cause bad breath, most cases of bad breath begin in the mouth. Dietary choices such as a weakness for onions, for example, can lead to bad breath, as can smoking and excessive alcohol intake.
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Good dental hygiene is one of the best-known ways to prevent tooth decay. Twice daily brushing, daily flossing, and biannual visits to our Los Angeles cosmetic dentist can help you keep your teeth in the healthiest possible condition. Good dental hygiene alone may not be enough to stop cavities, however. That’s because a combination of oral bacteria and weak enamel can cause cavities even in those with good dental hygiene. The Benefits of Fluoride
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Although most of us begin our lives with our teeth white, over the years the enamel can wear down. It may become stained due to our diet, drinking dark beverages, smoking, or normal aging. Certain medications can also cause stained teeth. Our Los Angeles cosmetic dentist can help you turn back the clock and achieve a whiter smile. Teeth whitening options There are three main options for whitening teeth that have been stained through lifestyle factors such as aging or dietary habits.
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Tooth sensitivity is extremely common, affecting about half of all Americans. While it can happen at any age, it is most common from the mid-twenties and on. Tooth sensitivity can develop for a number of reasons. Our dentist in Los Angeles can help determine what the best course of treatment will be to help restore comfort and desensitize teeth. What causes sensitive teeth? In healthy teeth, a strong layer of enamel covers the crown of the tooth, while a layer called cementum covers the root.
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Gingivitis is a common form of gum disease that is estimated to affect as many as half of all American adults. Telltale signs of gingivitis are red or swollen gums, gums that bleed when teeth are brushed or flossed, reddish gums, or a receding gum line. Chronic bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth can also indicate gingivitis. Often, gingivitis is caused by poor dental hygiene, making it both preventable and highly treatable. Other causes of gingivitis include the hormonal changes that often accompany pregnancy or puberty, illnesses that affect the immune system such as cancer or HIV, diabetes, smoking, and certain medications.
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Bacteria live naturally in our bodies and serve many purposes to fight infections and diseases. Bacteria inside of the mouth will grow quickly and must be removed constantly to prevent the formation of bacterial build up on the teeth and gum lines. The bacteria are harmful to the enamel of teeth and begin to erode the enamel when not removed. This enamel erosion leads to weakened areas of the teeth and is a breeding ground for cavity growth and increases the risk of oral diseases like gingivitis. When left untreated, these disorders can begin to decay normal teeth resulting in advanced decay or tooth loss.
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