All posts by Alan Zabolian

How to Handle Dental Emergencies

December 27, 2017Dental Emergenciesabcess, chipped tooth, emergency dentist, Emergency Dentist Los Angeles, infectionAlan Zabolian

It’s impossible to predict when an accident can happen. Sometimes, dental emergencies come when you least expect them. If you are struck with an injury or accident in the middle of the night, and you aren’t able to get to your dentist right away, there are special steps you can take to provide immediate care for yourself and prevent any permanent damages from occurring.

At Samaritan Dental Arts, we are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to be your go-to dentist in downtown Los Angeles in the event of an emergency. If you ever run into an accident which causes a broken tooth or bleeding gums, we want to make sure you can get the proper care that you need. Before stopping in for an emergency visit, here are a couple of crucial steps you should take on your own before any big problems arise.

For Chipped or Broken Teeth

If your tooth is chipped or broken, try as best as you can to save the pieces of the tooth that have fallen out. Then, you should rinse your mouth out using warm water, but not too hot. Put some medical gauze in your mouth to stop any bleeding that may have occurred as a result of the accident.

You may experience some swelling and pain. In order to ease the swelling, put a cold compress to the outside of your cheek or mouth near the damaged area. Then, make an appointment to see us as soon as possible.

For a Knocked-Out Tooth

If your tooth has been knocked out completely, it is vital that you retrieve the tooth as best as you can. Make sure to hold it by the crown, rather than the root – this area is too sensitive and susceptible to damage. If the tooth is dirty, gently rinse it in warm water. Make sure not to scrub it or use soap.

Try to put your tooth back into your mouth in its original position. If you feel like you have to force it into your socket, do not attempt to put the tooth in. The best thing for you to do in this case is to put the tooth in a container of milk to preserve it. If you have a cell-growth solution such as Save-a-Tooth, you can put it into that solution as well. Then, make an appointment to see us as soon as you can, so that we may save your tooth and apply it back into its correct position.

Abscess or Infections

Some injuries, especially those that cause the gums or lips to bleed, may become the host for infection. If you have an abscess, which is noticeable by infections around the roots and gums, you must make an appointment to see us right away. Infection is a serious issue that can quickly and easily spread to the rest of the mouth. An abscess should not be left untreated in any scenario.

If you suffer from an accident that causes your lips, gums, or mouth to bleed, or if you have a dislodged or broken tooth, you must consult a professional as soon as possible.

Dentist in Downtown Los Angeles

At Samaritan Dental, we are dedicated to providing affordable and top-quality care to all patients. Our friendly staff members are here to help with every need, and we are always available to answer any concerns you may have. If you need help with a dental emergency, or if you are interested in making an evening appointment with the top dentist in downtown Los Angeles, you can contact us online for more information. You can also give us a call at (213) 986-2933 to schedule an appointment at any time!

The Power of Your Smile

November 15, 2017Cosmetic Dentistry, Teeth Whiteningcosmetic dentistry, smile, Teeth WhiteningAlan Zabolian

The Power of Your Smile

There’s a reason cosmetic dentistry is the most popular form of dentistry in the world. It’s not just to make you look good – it’s to make you feel good too! In fact, a confident smile is one of the most powerful acts you can have.

It’s amazing how much a smile can make an impact on a person, a group of people, and, most importantly, yourself. At Samaritan Dental Arts, we delve deep into a research project that shows just how important confident smiles really are.

The great medical, psychological, neurological, and social benefits of smiles are seemingly endless! Here’s just a few things that prove the power of your smile.

Smiles Predict Your Health

It’s true; the more you smile, the healthier and happier you may be. Researchers at UC Berkeley spent 30 years trying to predict the outcome of certain students’ lives based on their smiles (or lack of smiles). It turned out that the students with the brightest and most confident smiles had the longest-lasting marriages, the best scores on standardized tests, and the highest level of general happiness.

Next time you look in the mirror, smile wide – you could be predicting your own future happiness!

Smiles Can Determine Your Lifespan

Further studies have concluded that the lifespan of a person can be predicted by how widely they smile. Those who smile less don’t tend to live as long as those with great, bubbly smiles.

According to Wayne State University, those who don’t smile tend to live an average of 79 years, while those with great smiles can outlive them by an average of 6 years or more!

For a closer look at cosmetic dentistry in Los Angeles, contact Samaritan Dental Arts today.

Smiling is In Our Nature

Did you know that humans are born smiling? It may not seem that way to the face of a crying baby, but we are a species that loves to smile. New technologies have even been able to show that babies can smile while still in the womb, too!

Ever notice how easily a baby can smile when they hear the sound of their mother’s voice? Or how easily things can make them laugh? This is because they know they are meant to smile. Humans are born with superpowers; we have the ability to strongly impact a social situation from the strength of our smiles.

Not to mention that smiling is one of the and most primal and basic types of human expression that has been around since the dawn of man. All humans across all cultures, societies, and environments all use the biological smile. It’s been around for centuries, and it has been a universal form of communication for thousands of years.

We Smile Quite Often!

About 30% of all humans smile over 20 times a day, whether in response to a great joke or a pleasant morning. And often, our smiles can impact others’ smiles, too. Only 14% of the human population smiles less than 5 times a day, marking it as quite the rarity.

The most frequent smilers? Children! Babies and toddlers will smile over 400 times per day! They love flexing their superpowers, and they smile quite often as they learn how to control and influence their facial expressions.

Smiling is Always Rewarding

Our brain interprets the smile as something that always brings us a reward later on. It is similar to the experiments on classical conditioning, but it happens naturally within the brain.

Think about how good it feels when you eat a piece of chocolate. The chocolate stimulates the brain and gives you a sense of pleasure for a short while. Now imagine this: A single smile provides the brain with up to 2,000 times the amount of pleasure and satisfaction as a piece of chocolate. Not to mention the mental and physical health benefits are multiplied as well.

Improve Your Smile with Cosmetic Dentistry in Los Angeles!

Having a big and confident smile can have serious positive effects on your overall health and well-being. Having misshapen, discolored, or misaligned teeth can definitely strike down your self-esteem and keep you from smiling as much as you might want to. At Samaritan Dental Arts, we can provide high-quality cosmetic dentistry in Los Angeles to improve your smile in a painless and affordable way. For more information, contact us online. Or, give us a call at (213) 986-2933 to schedule an appointment. Our friendly staff members are here to help!

How Does the Tooth Decay Process Work?

October 25, 2017Preventive Dentistrybrushing and flossing, cavities, implant, tooth decayAlan Zabolian

Many people don’t realize that maintaining our dental health is an important part of maintaining our overall health. Problems such as gum disease and tooth decay can have a greater impact than many fully realize. Read on to learn more about how tooth decay happens and how you can treat it.

For more information about tooth decay, dental hygiene, and more complex dental treatments from a dentist in Downtown Los Angeles, visit Samaritan Dental Arts.

What Exactly is Tooth Decay?

Tooth decay happens when the bacteria in the mouth produces acids that then eat away at the tooth itself. This is what causes cavities or literal holes in the tooth. If it remains untreated, this decay causes pain, infection and in extreme cases, tooth loss.

The tooth contains three layers. The center of the tooth contains blood vessels and nerves and is known as the pulp. The middle layer is known as dentin and the outer layer is called the enamel. If each layer is affected by the decay of these acids, the more severe the damage.

What are the Causes of Tooth Decay?

It’s not just bacteria that causes tooth decay. Food is also a culprit. Plaque is always forming on your teeth and gums. This clear, sticky plaque contains the bacteria that feed on the sugars in the foods we all love to it. As the bacteria feeds on these sugars, the acids form and attach the teeth for 20 minutes or more after you eat. As time goes on, the acids destroy that outer layer of enamel which causes the tooth to decay.

There are some factors that can make you more susceptible to tooth decay. Make sure you do the following to avoid the harmful effects of tooth decay.

• Brush and floss your teeth regularly and see your dentist every six months for cleanings and checkups.

• Avoid foods high in sugar and other carbohydrates which will feed on the bacteria in your mouth.

• Make sure you get enough fluoride which helps to prevent decay by making teeth more resistant to the acids that produce plaque. Fluoride is added to most public water.

• Avoid dry mouth which can be caused by some medications or by simply breathing through your mouth. Make sure you have enough saliva to help wash the food and harmful sugars from your mouth which helps to protect your teeth.

• Avoid smoking or using other tobacco products.

Common in Children

It isn’t just adults that avoid the dentist who suffer from tooth decay. Children are also susceptible to tooth decay and are actually more likely than adults to suffer from it. The minerals in a child’s teeth are not as strong as an adult and aren’t able to fight off those destructive acids. Babies can also suffer tooth decay if left with a bottle in their mouth as they fall asleep. The sugars from milk and juice can cause a great deal of damage.

How is it Treated?

Treatment will often depend on the severity of the decay. If caught early before a cavity has formed, decay can often be stopped by brushing with a good fluoride toothpaste or with fluoride treatments. However, if the decay has eaten its way through that enamel layer of the tooth, you may need to get a filling if a cavity has formed. Once your dentist removes the decay, they will fill the hole and restore the tooth to its original shape.

If the decay is severe, your dentist may need to give you a crown, or replacement for the damaged part of the tooth. If that first layer of the tooth, the pulp, is infected, your dentist may need to perform a root canal to actually remove the diseased pulp of the tooth. If the root of the tooth is beyond repair, your dentist will need to extract the tooth and replace it with a bridge or an implant.

There are a couple of home remedy options but they don’t take the place of seeing your dentist regularly. If you have pain and swelling, you can use ice packs on your cheeks for 10 to 15 minutes at a time, several times a day. Do not use heat. You can also take an over-the-counter pain reliever.

Dentist in Downtown Los Angeles

The best way to prevent tooth decay is to see your dentist for regular checkups and brush your teeth twice a day with a good fluoride toothpaste. If you are looking for a dentist in Downtown Los Angeles, you can schedule an appointment at Samaritan Dental Arts. We are open on Saturdays and you can make an appointment by visiting https://samaritandentalarts.com. You can also fill out the necessary forms, meet the team of professionals and view a complete list of services. Don’t take your dental health for granted. Make your appointment today.

Most Common Swollen Gum Causes

September 22, 2017Uncategorizedswollen gum causesAlan Zabolian

Brushing your teeth and notice something a little off in the mirror? Do your gums look inflamed around just one tooth? You’re not going crazy. There are many reasons why your gums may be swollen around a single tooth. Gums are incredibly good indicators of not just oral health, but overall general health. Our gums can tell us a lot. Continue reading to find out the most common swollen gum causes, especially only around just a singular tooth.

Flossing Abrasion

If you see just one part of your gums swollen around a tooth, it could be due to an aggressive hygiene habit. You could be flossing your teeth too hard and have irritated an area of your gums. If you press too hard into the gum with your floss, you can actually cut the gums.

This will usually heal on its own after a few says have passed. To prevent this kind of irritation from occurring in the future, make sure to pay special attention to managing your teeth with care and to floss thoroughly but gently. Your mouth will thank you!

Abscessed Tooth

Another reason your gums might be swollen around is due to an abscessed tooth. This health condition is a little more serious than the previously listed one. An abscessed tooth is at its core a tooth infection. If you feel sharp pains in your gum, increased sensitivity or tenderness, you may have an abscessed tooth. This kind of infection can be caused by untreated cavities and bacterial infections. If left untreated, the infection can spread throughout the mouth, causing excessive damage.

To treat this condition, you will need to go visit your dentist. They will be able to prescribe the appropriate course of action. Antibiotics or oral surgery might be necessary to fix the tooth.

Gum Disease

This last reason your gums could be swollen is far more serious which is why you need to ensure you are paying attention to your gums each and every time you are brushing your teeth. Gum disease is a condition in which your gums becomes dry, swollen and red. The disease is most dangerous because if not treated, it can destroy your jaw, when it spreads to the bone from the gum. If not treated immediately, this very severe consequence can occur. The moment you notice the symptoms of gum disease starting to occur, contact your dental professional immediately. Gum disease can occur when plaque builds up in the mouth and is left untouched. It can harbor bacteria and infect the gum. It is also a risk factor for heart and lung disease.

The best way to prevent gum disease is to practice healthy oral hygiene practices. Make sure you are brushing and flossing twice daily. Make sure you are doing so in a gentle yet effective way. It is also important to be visiting your dentist on a regular basis. Your teeth are key to your health so it is vital to properly take care of them.

Dentist in Los Angeles

Dedicated to the highest standards in medicine, Dr. Zabolian is the premiere cosmetic dentist. With years of experience and positive patient satisfaction, you are in the best possible hands. Contact Samaritan Dental Arts today if you have more questions about common swollen gum causes. Healthcare professionals await your inquiry and are ready and willing to help with all concerns.

Top Reasons to Smile More

August 17, 2017Teeth Whiteningdentist in Beverly hillsAlan Zabolian

Did you know that smiling not only puts out an inviting, good energy to those around you but can benefit your health? Children offer smiles all the time but as they enter adulthood it seems harder and harder to crack one out. Go to a playground and look at the kids running around and having fun! Then look at the parents sitting on the benches looking at phones or starting into nothingness because their mind is elsewhere. Adults would benefit from trying to disconnect from work and stress to join the children in their carefree day.

Research has found many health benefits associated with smiling. As well as having health benefits, smiling will have a positive effect on all areas of your life. When you smile, physiological changes in your body take place without you even being aware of them. If you don’t believe it for yourself, contact your dentist in Beverly Hills.

1. Endorphins are released when you smile

The muscles in your face trigger the release of endorphins when you smile. Endorphins are responsible for suppressing our stress and making us feel happy. Faking a smile can do the same thing since the brain does not know the difference – the release of endorphins will be triggered by the movement of the facial muscles and we will feel happier. The more often we can stimulate our brain to release endorphins, the more often we will feel happy and relaxed.

2. Endorphins boost our mood

Endorphins act as natural pain killers for our body. If you suffer from chronic pain, smiling can help with pain management. If you fall or bump your funny bone, smiling or laughing about it can ward off the pain.

3. When endorphins are released, cortisol (the stress hormone) is reduced

When we feel stressed or anxious, cortisol is more active and we experience higher levels of unpleasant feelings. When cortisol levels are reduced it helps to lower the instances of negative feelings.

4. Smiling attract people to you and helps you to be more social

When you smile, people will see you as approachable. Having positive interactions with others is no doubt, good for your health. Smiling is contagious and those around you will also feel better and start to smile more. Spread the love!

Happiness and positivity will serve you well in life. When you face a challenging situation, smiling will help you relax, feel more at ease, and get you through it. Smiling shows that you are confident and can send the stress on its way.

Tips for Smiling and Laughing More Often

1. Smile and laugh regularly

Smiling and laughing is habit forming. The more you do it, the more naturally it will happen on its own.

2. Get goof with your entertainment

Inject some humor into your life by watching sitcoms, comedic movies, or YouTube videos that make you laugh. It can be hard to avoid negative feelings when you regularly watch the news or dramatic programs. Make sure to balance your viewing.

3. Spend time with family and friends who lift your spirits

Make sure to surround yourself with people who are happy and people who make you happy.

4. Look for things that you can smile and laugh about

When you consciously look for things to smile and laugh about, you are more likely to find them. You become more in tune with things that make you happy and are more likely to find a smile on a regular basis.

If you are among those who avoid smiling because you do not find your smile attractive, do something to improve those pearly whites so that you can lead a happier and more fulfilling life. Visit your dentist in Beverly Hills who can give you a brighter, whiter smile will be good for your dental health and your overall wellbeing.

At Samaritan Dental Arts, we can give you the smile that you dream of. Book an appointment for an assessment with your qualified dentist in Beverly Hills who can assess your needs and give you a smile that will last a lifetime.

Is it Snoring or Sleep Apnea?

July 21, 2017Uncategorizedsnoring or sleep apneaAlan Zabolian

Sleep Apnea

“I have sleep apnea, I snore!”…..a claim made by many and they may just be correct. Snoring and suffering from sleep apnea are two different things. So, are you experience snoring or sleep apnea?

Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea may make it sound like you are snoring. It is a disorder which causes abnormal pauses in breathing (apneas) or very low breathing (hypopneas) during sleep. Apneas may occur if there is a lack of respiratory effort, there is a physical blockage obstructing airflow, or a combination of the two things. Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is most common.

People with OSA may not even be aware that they experience difficulty breathing when they sleep. Often, the problem is noticed by someone who sleeps in the same bed or the same room as the affected individual. If you suffer from OSA you will often feel extreme fatigue during the day and may be quite sleepy in the middle of the day.

Those with sleep apnea may take naps during the day trying to catch up on lost sleep. They may also fall asleep watching television or sitting in a car. With more extreme cases, individuals may also fall asleep in the middle of a conversation. Sleep apnea is bound to affect work performance, concentration, and motivation as well as be the cause of other behavioral of cognitive effects.

Snoring

Snoring has a different cause. Respiratory structures vibrate if there is restricted air movement during breathing while you sleep. It can be caused by the uvula, an elongated soft palate, a large tongue, or obstructions in the nasal passage.

While as many at 50% of adults snore, one in 15 will be affected by sleep apnea. Someone who snores may also have sleep apnea but not all patients with sleep apnea snore. So even if you do not snore, you may suffer from sleep apnea. A sleep study can help to determine if you suffer from sleep apnea. If you often don’t feel like you have had a good night’s sleep and you suffer from daytime sleepiness and fatigue you can go to a sleep center and stay overnight where they will connect you to a variety of devices to monitor your body. They will look at brain activity, eye movements, muscle activity, heart rhythm, and oxygen saturation. You may also use a home testing device that will do the same thing in the comfort of your home.

Treatments

There are a variety of treatment options for those suffering from snoring and obstructive sleep apnea. Snoring treatment may include positive airway pressure devices, or dental appliances and surgeries that will be customized for your needs. The Pillar Procedure is a surgery in which three to six woven polyester strips are inserted into the soft palate. This surgery is done under general anesthesia. This will help the soft palate become more rigid which will reduce vibrations and also snoring. Treatments will vary depending on the cause of the snoring or the sleep apnea.

If you have obstructive sleep apnea you may use a Continuous Positive Airway Pressure Device (CPAP) which will keep your airway open during sleep. The machine delivers a continuous flow of pressurized air into the throat. Another option is to get a custom-made mouthpiece that will help to move the lower jaw forward which will open your airway.

Whether it is snoring or sleep apnea, there are also surgery options to open your airway to make nighttime breathing easier. Surgery is individualized for each patient depending on the cause of the issue. For further information on the treatment options for snoring and sleep apnea, you can contact Samaritan Dental Arts where our team of professionals are available to help seek the best option for you.

The Importance of Children’s Oral Health & Dental Care

June 15, 2017Uncategorizedchildren’s oral healthAlan Zabolian

With everything we teach our children, good oral hygiene should be high on the list. When you start your children off with healthy oral hygiene habits, you are investing in their future. They will have bright smiles and maintain good health and health habits.

Because baby teeth fall out, many forget the importance of taking care of them. However, you want to establish good habits from the start so that they last a lifetime. An early start will help protect a child’s teeth and teach them the importance of an oral regimen from the start.

Children’s oral health is important even before a baby gets teeth. Bacteria build up can be prevented by cleaning your baby’s gums with a warm, wet cloth every day. Baby teeth are susceptible to decay and other problems and need to be taken care of right from the start.

The American Dental Association recommends a trip to a pediatric dentist before your child’s first birthday. A dentist will review the parent’s dental history, examine the condition of the baby’s teeth, check bite alignment, and assess the possibility of future dental problems. A pediatric dentist may also review a healthy diet plan with you and make some suggestions about preventative care and healthy oral habits. This first visit will help set the stage for healthy oral habits and provides the family and the dentist an opportunity to connect and get to know each other.

Children and Tooth Decay

Baby teeth are not in the mouth for a long period of time but they need to be properly cared for. The baby teeth help with the following important developmental goals:

• Aid in the development of clear speech
• Help with effective chewing
• Help to guide permanent teeth into position as they emerge

Once baby teeth come in, tooth decay can begin if proper oral hygiene is not practiced. Permanent teeth underneath can be damaged if there are cavities and infection in the baby teeth. Cavities in infants often occur due to contact with drinks that contain sugars such as milk, juice, or formula. This is known as “baby bottle decay.”

Tooth decay is preventable but it is still a prevalent issue for children. Research has shown that in the United States, the number of children between the ages of five and nineteen who have untreated dental carries (cavities) is around 17.5%. The effects of tooth decay can be painful and, if left untreated, it can lead to an infection and affect eating and speaking. Children who are at risk of cavities should have a fluoride varnish applied to help protect their teeth.

What You Should Do

Good children’s oral health is important from the start. Here are some things you can do at home:

• Help young children (3 and under) with the brushing of their teeth. Use a soft toothbrush and a rice-sized smear of fluoridated toothpaste. Brush in the morning and again at night.
• Help a child floss as soon as he has 2 teeth that are next to one another.
• At about the age of three, increase the toothpaste to about the size of a pea. Continue brushing twice a day. Ensure the child does not use too much toothpaste and that he does not swallow it.

Samaritan Dental Arts has pediatric dentists who care about children and their health. They are committed to providing quality care for your whole family. Contact them to book an appointment today.

Why are Root Canals Done?

May 18, 2017Uncategorizedwhy are root canals doneAlan Zabolian

If you’ve been told that you need a root canal, don’t panic – root canals are not as scary as they seem. Know that this procedure will ultimately alleviate any pain you’re feeling and preserve the problem tooth. Why are root canals done?

Why You Might Need One

By the time you need a root canal, it is too late to save the tooth completely. Your dentist, however, can preserve it by performing a root canal so that you don’t need to have it removed. If left untreated, you might need to have the tooth completely taken out.

The tooth is dying from infection, so a root canal is needed to cut out the infected tissue inside the tooth. This will also keep it from potentially infecting other parts of your body.

You also might need a root canal to relieve any pain you’re feeling as a result of the infection. Remember, you should not feel any pain during the actual procedure; the dentist will numb your mouth. Once the root canal is completed, you might be sore from the procedure, but the major pain you might be experiencing will be gone.

First, the dentist will numb your mouth so you shouldn’t feel any pain. Once the numbness has settled in, the dentist will completely remove the infected part of your tooth. They will shape the inside of the tooth as they do this, allowing space for a filler. Once the tooth is cleaned and shaped, a filler is placed in the tooth. It is then sealed, closing it off to infection and bacteria. You will then need to come back to the dentist to get a crown placed on the tooth so that it can function like a regular tooth. When the whole process is done, your tooth will be back to normal; you can bite, chew and use it normally. You might feel some pain or soreness after the root canal, but expect to be mostly pain free within a few days.

Do You Need a Root Canal?

The next question you may be asking yourself after “why are root canals done?” is “Do I need one myself?”. Your dentist will ultimately decide whether or not you need a root canal based on a multitude of factors.

• Different types of pain: First, you will be asked to consider how your tooth does with hot and cold and how long the pain lasts. Your dentist it trying to determine if you have lingering pain. If the pain goes away and doesn’t linger, it might mean that the pulp inside the tooth can recover. If you drink a glass of cold water and your tooth hurts for over an hour, then the nerve is likely dead. Then the dentist will ask about positional pain. If your tooth suddenly hurts when you lie down or run in place, it likely means there’s an abscess, or a dead tooth. Then you will be asked about spontaneous pain. If the pain comes on suddenly without a clear trigger, then you probably have a dead tooth.
• Fistula: This will appear on the gum and looks like a white, yellow or red little pimple. A fistula is a sign of infection, and it tells your dentist that your body is looking to rid itself of the infectious materials.
• Abscess: Typically seen on an x-ray, an abscess is basically a hole in your jawbone. It shows up as a dark spot on an x-ray because bone will not grow in the surrounding area of an infection.
• Referred Pain: If you are feeling pain not just in your tooth but other places in your body (jaw, ear, surrounding teeth), this could also mean that you have an abscess.

Dr. Alan Zabolian at Samaritan Dental Arts provides general dentistry services like teeth whitening, veneers, dental implants, mercury-free fillings, root canal therapy and more. His goal is to provide his patients premium, quality care.

The Best Teeth Whitening for a Perfect Smile

April 19, 2017Teeth Whiteningbest teeth whiteningAlan Zabolian

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

What You Can Do for a Whiter Smile

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

Dairy Products

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

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

Whitening Toothpaste

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

Take Care of Your Enamel

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

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

A Superior Whitening

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

Bleaching

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

Whitening Kits

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

Choosing the Right Dental Care

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

How to Avoid Cavities

April 18, 2017Preventive Dentistryhow to avoid cavitiesAlan Zabolian

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

Regular Brushing & Flossing

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

Avoid the Bad Foods

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

Cavity Friendly Treats

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

Preventative Dentistry

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

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