Category Archives: General Dentistry

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Can a Cavity Cause Jaw Pain?

General Dentistry,

Cavities, otherwise known as dental caries, are one of the most common dental problems around the world and one of the most common reasons people visit a dentist. Cavities develop when the acids produced by bacteria in plaque erode the enamel of your teeth. People usually associate cavities with tooth sensitivity and tooth pain. But can a cavity cause jaw pain as well? Continue reading to learn about the intricate connection between cavities and jaw pain.

 

Can a Cavity Cause Jaw Pain?

A cavity is a damaged area in the hard surface of your teeth. These areas become tiny holes that can cause extreme pain, infection, and tooth loss. Cavities start as small areas of enamel demineralization. If not addressed in a timely manner, the cavity progresses to the dentin and the pulp. When the cavity reaches the pulp, it can cause significant pain and discomfort because the pulp contains nerves and blood vessels.

So the question is, will this pain travel to the jaw? To answer this, one must understand the anatomy of the teeth and their relationship with the jaw.

 

The Link Between Cavities and Jaw Pain

Nerve Irritation

Each one of your teeth is connected to the jawbone by the nerves that run through the roots of your tooth and into the jaw. When a cavity reaches the pulp, the nerves of the tooth will become irritated and inflamed. This pain can then radiate to the jaw and its surrounding areas.

 

Infection and Abscesses

Without treatment, bacteria in the cavity can infiltrate the pulp and cause an infection. This infection can spread to the surrounding tissues, including the jawbone, and create a dental abscess, a pocket of pus that forms as a result of bacterial infection. Abscesses cause intense throbbing pain in the affected tooth, gums, and jaw.

 

Referred Pain

Because the nerves in your mouth are interconnected, inflammation in one area can send pain signals in another. This is why pain from a cavity may not be localized to that tooth but is “referred” to other areas of the face or jaw.

 

Bruxism or Teeth Grinding

Cavities can cause a misaligned or uneven bite, which can lead to unknowingly and unintentionally grinding teeth. This grinding is known as bruxism. It can occur while one is awake or asleep and stresses the jaw muscles and joints, eventually leading to pain and discomfort.

 

Temporomandibular Joint Involvement

The temporomandibular joint connects the jawbone to the skull. You have two temporomandibular joints, one on each side of the jaw. Severe tooth pain or infection can affect your jaw movement. In turn, this restricted movement may strain the temporomandibular joint and cause jaw pain, stiffness, and even headaches.

 

Symptoms to Watch For

You may notice some of the following symptoms when you have a cavity and are experiencing jaw pain.

  • Persistent, dull, or sharp toothache
  • Painful biting or chewing
  • Swelling in the jaw or gums
  • Tooth sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks
  • An unpleasant taste in the mouth (a sign of an abscess)
  • Difficulty opening and closing your mouth

If these symptoms persist or worsen, or if jaw pain is accompanied by swelling or fever, immediately visit your dentist for proper treatment.

 

How to Prevent Jaw Pain from Cavities

The best way to avoid cavity-related jaw pain is to practice good dental hygiene and visit your dentist regularly. Follow the tips below to protect yourself from cavities and ensure your oral health.

Brush and Floss Regularly: If you cannot brush after every meal, at least brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste. Do not go to sleep without having brushed your teeth.  Floss once or twice daily to prevent plaque buildup, tooth decay, and cavities.

Use Mouthwash: A good antibacterial mouthwash can help reduce plaque and kill harmful bacteria.

Maintain a Healthy Diet: Avoid sugary and acidic foods. Eat foods rich in calcium and vitamins to strengthen your teeth.

Visit Your Dentist Regularly: Regular dental checkups and cleanings can ensure your teeth are healthy and free from plaque buildup. Your dentist can also catch dental issues early on and address them before they become full-blown problems.

 

Consult a Dentist in Los Angeles

Cavities can cause jaw pain, especially if the decay has reached the deeper layers of the tooth or if an infection is present. By practicing good oral hygiene, regularly visiting your dentist, and promptly addressing tooth pain, you can protect your teeth and prevent cavity-related jaw pain from disrupting your daily life.

Whether your tooth pain is accompanied by jaw pain or not, a reputable dentist can help you manage your pain and address the problem. Schedule a consultation with Samaritan Dental today to relieve your dental pain.

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How to Know If You Have a Cavity Between Two Teeth

General Dentistry, ,

Cavities are one of the most common oral health issues. In fact, around ninety percent of adults between the ages of 20 and 54 have had tooth decay in their teeth. Cavities can impact any part of your teeth, including the visible surface or between your teeth. Cavities between your teeth can be a little harder to detect. However, there are several signs that indicate the presence of cavities. Below, you will find out how to know if you have a cavity between two teeth.

How to Know If You Have a Cavity Between Two Teeth

Cavities are often associated with several symptoms. If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your dentist right away. Early detection and treatment are key if you have cavities. It can reduce the risk of further damage to your oral health. Consider the following symptoms that indicate you may have a cavity between your teeth.

Pain or Discomfort

Pain or discomfort when you are biting down on or chewing food is an indication of trouble. It could mean that you have a cavity between your teeth. The pressure from biting and chewing can aggravate the area around the cavity. The pain can vary in severity. It can also feel dull or sharp. Tooth pain can indicate cavities or worse, so it is important to contact a dentist right away.

Temperature Sensitivity

Temperature sensitivity is a common symptom of cavities. It is an early symptom, so heading to the dentist right away is helpful. You may notice sensitivity when you consume hot or cold foods or beverages. However, you may also notice sensitivity when you eat sugary foods. The pain is often sudden and sharp. Sensitivity can also be a sign of more serious oral health conditions. Because of this, it’s advisable to schedule a dental appointment right away.

Bleeding Gums

Bleeding or irritated gums are a sign of cavities between your teeth. However, issues with your gums also indicate more advanced oral health issues. One of the more common oral health issues is gum disease. This can lead to serious oral health issues, including tooth loss in severe cases. If you notice bleeding, inflammation, or sensitivity around your gums, it is necessary to get it treated right away. Avoid irritating the area, as it can cause discomfort.

Visible Spots or Stains

Cavities in between your teeth are harder to see. However, you may notice stains or dark spots in between your teeth. These are often black or brown in color. You may also notice greyish shadows. If you notice anything in between your teeth that cannot be removed with flossing, it is time to go to the dentist. Cavities between your teeth can cause serious damage to your oral health.

Cavity Diagnosis and Treatment

If you experience any of the symptoms associated with cavities, schedule an appointment with the dentist. They can effectively diagnose the issue to determine if you have cavities or any other oral health issues. Cavities are diagnosed using a combination of diagnostic tools. These include X-rays, a visual exam, or a floss test. If you just have a cavity, it can be easily addressed in the same appointment in many cases.

The most common treatment for cavities includes fillings. More extensive cavities or more serious oral health issues may require different treatment. This includes crowns or a root canal. This is why early intervention is essential. You can easily avoid more aggressive treatment options if you address cavities early on. If you are concerned you may have a cavity, contact the team at Samaritan Dental Arts to schedule an appointment today!

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The Importance of Regular Dental Checkups

General Dentistry,

Any reliable general and cosmetic dentist in Los Angeles will stress the importance of preventive dentistry. In fact, a good doctor will always encourage you to undergo by-yearly checkups and professional cleanings to help you avoid costly and complicated procedures. But why is preventive dentistry so crucial? In this article, we discuss the importance of regular dental checkups and cleanings.

 

The Importance of Regular Dental Checkups

We all know that brushing and flossing teeth twice a day is essential for our oral health. However, more is needed, even for people who are very dedicated to their dental hygiene at home. The reason for this is that we all have hard-to-reach areas in the mouth that usually need to be cleaned more thoroughly. The issue is even more significant for people who have misaligned or crooked teeth. Food residue and bacteria linger in those crevices, turning into plaque and tartar over time—the leading causes of cavities and gum disease.

Regular dental checkups can help you maintain good oral health in several ways:

 

Dental Checkups Prevent Serious Oral and General Health Issues

Small cavities can be painless and often do not signal their arrival. As a result, you might not notice the moment when a simple cavity turns into severe tooth decay. Often, tooth decay needs complicated treatments such as root canal therapy. Also, if tooth decay is left untreated for a long time, it can lead to tooth loss or infect the surrounding teeth. In addition, the infection can spread to the gum tissue and the jawbone and result in periodontal disease, which is difficult and time-consuming to treat.

Furthermore, infections in the mouth are closely associated with illnesses of other organs in the body. For example, gum disease can lead to heart, lung, and joint issues. It also can cause changes in the blood sugar levels. Oral infections can harm the gastrointestinal system and even impede cognitive function. 

If you visit a dental office every six months, your doctor will be able to spot any small cavities or other potential issues and offer you a plan of treatment right away. Treating a cavity with a dental filling is also quicker and cheaper than treating severe tooth decay. What is more, having a healthy mouth at all times will help boost the health of your whole body, your energy levels, and your quality of life.

 

Dental Checkups Can Include Professional Dental Cleanings

Dental checkups are often combined with professional cleanings that are necessary to maintain the perfect condition of your teeth. Your dentist uses professional instruments to effectively remove plaque and tartar (which can not be removed with a toothbrush at home) from all areas of the mouth, even those that are hard to reach. Thus, professional cleanings prevent cavities, decay, and gum disease. In addition, by undergoing cleanings every six months, you can prevent plaque on your teeth from hardening and turning to tartar.

You can also opt for a fluoride treatment as a part of your dental cleaning. Fluoride effectively remineralizes the teeth, strengthens the enamel, and makes your teeth move resistant to harmful bacteria, further preventing cavities.

Also, by regularly cleaning your teeth at a dental office, you can boost the effectiveness of fluoride toothpaste you use at home since there will not be a film on your teeth that prevents the ingredient from penetrating the enamel.

 

Regular Dental Checkups and Cleanings Save Money in the Long Run

Treating teeth with severe issues can be expensive. For example, the cost of a root canal treatment is approximately 1500 to 2000 dollars without insurance. The price of replacing a decayed tooth with a dental implant can be as much as 5000 dollars. Gum disease treatments can include multiple costly procedures and end up costing a small fortune.

In addition, in many cases, dental insurance only covers part of the price of major procedures, typically only 50 percent. On the other hand, most dental insurance policies cover the total price of preventive procedures, such as checkups and cleaning. Even if you pay for these procedures out of pocket, they will be much cheaper than any complicated, multi-step treatments.

 

Make an Appointment Today

At Samaritan Dental, we provide student discounts for dental care. Do not hesitate to call our office and make an appointment for a dental checkup and a professional cleaning today. We look forward to welcoming you to our dental office.

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How Do General and Restorative Dentistry Differ?

General Dentistry, Restorative Dentistry,

Our patients often ask: How do general and restorative dentistry differ? Even though these two fields of dentistry often overlap, there are differences in the spectrum of the procedures they employ. Please read our article to learn more about these two branches of dentistry.

 

How Do General and Restorative Dentistry Differ?

Restorative dentistry deals primarily with broken, missing, or decayed teeth. The main goal of this branch of dentistry is to restore the health, function, and appearance of teeth and gums or to replace missing teeth. General dentistry focuses on overall oral health, examinations, preventative measures, and education. 

 

Restorative Dentistry Procedures

Restorative dentistry includes a variety of procedures, depending on a patient’s needs:

 

Dental Fillings

Dental fillings treat cavities in teeth. They typically involve using resin composite material to fill in the cavity after removing the decay from the tooth. 

 

Root Canal Therapy

Root canal treatment deals with more extensive tooth decay that infects the pulp chamber within the tooth. During the procedure, dentists remove the infected pulp, clean the canals, and fill them with a special dental material that seals them and prevents reinfection. 

 

Dental Crowns

A dental crown covers, reinforces, and protects a tooth weakened by decay. For example, it is often employed after a root canal treatment.

 

Inlays and Onlays

Inlays and onlays are used in cases when the decay is not extensive enough to justify using a dental crown but big enough for a simple dental filling. They are custom-made in the shape of a piece of the tooth that needs to be replaced.

 

Dental Bridges

Dental bridges replace individual missing tooth or multiple teeth in a row. They are supported by the remaining natural teeth on both sides and hang over the gap.

 

Dental Implants

Dental implants consist of a metal post that fuses with the jawbone and acts like the roots of natural teeth, as well as a dental crown. Implants are one of the most sophisticated and reliable methods of replacing missing teeth.

 

Dentures

Dentures are artificial teeth that rely on the gums or the existing natural teeth for support. There are full and partial dentures, and the choice depends on the number of missing teeth. 

 

Dental Veneers and Dental Bonding

Dental veneers and bonding restore chipped, cracked, or broken teeth. Veneers are porcelain shells that cover the entire outer surface of a tooth, while dental bonding typically covers only a part of it. 

 

Bone and Gum Grafting

Bone grafting involves using natural or artificial materials—grafts—to promote the regeneration of a jawbone that has lost its density. Gum grafting is a similar procedure, but it aims at gum tissue regeneration. The dentist will place grafts in the gum or bone, which subsequently begins regrowing around them. Both procedures are most commonly used in preparation for dental implants or as part of gum disease treatment.

 

General Dentistry Procedures

General Dentistry procedures include:

 

Dental Cleanings

Professional dental cleanings are an essential preventative measure. Accordingly, dentists recommend getting professional cleaning every 6 to 12 months to effectively maintain good oral health. In some cases, for example, during gum disease treatment, you might need to have dental cleanings more often, typically every four months. During the cleaning, your dentist removes plaque and tartar buildup from the teeth and gums, thus preventing cavities, tooth decay, and gum disease.

 

Physical Examinations

Dentists recommend physical examinations every 6 to 12 months to spot any potential oral health issues and establish effective treatment before serious problems develop.

 

Fluoride Treatments

Fluoride treatment is usually the last step in dental cleaning. Specifically, because it is highly beneficial for reinforcing the enamel of the teeth, making them more resistant to bacteria and decay.

 

X-rays and Scans

X-rays and scans are diagnostic methods that allow your dentist to effectively establish the cause of the issue and to either prescribe a course of treatment or refer the patient to an appropriate specialist. 

 

Dental Fillings and Root Canal Treatments

General dentists can effectively perform procedures such as cavity and tooth decay treatment with dental fillings and root canal treatments. 

 

Make an Appointment Today

If you need general or restorative dental services, do not hesitate to make an appointment with a dentist in Los Angeles today. We offer a broad spectrum of high-quality modern procedures to ensure our patients’ oral health. Our specialists look forward to welcoming you and your family to Samaritan Dental.

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

General Dentistry, ,

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

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

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

How Cavities Form

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

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

Common Signs and Symptoms of Cavities

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

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

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

Less Common Signs and Symptoms of Cavities

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

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

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

Treat Your Cavities ASAP

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

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Is a Dentist Available Late at Night?

General Dentistry,

Your mouth is a very complex and sensitive part of your body. Although you are likely taking steps to stay safe at all times, you never know when you are going to get hurt. Dental emergencies happen, and it is important to know when, where, and how you can access emergency dentistry for fast appointments and instant treatment when you need it the most. So is a dentist available late at night?

Is a Dentist Available Late at Night?

At Samaritan Dental Arts, many patients call us with the question, “Is a dentist available late at night? What about early in the morning when I have chipped my tooth?” Whether due to an injury after a sports game or a nasty fall, it is important that you have access to emergency dental services at all times. Learn more about what constitutes a dental emergency and find out how you can receive 24/7 care from our specialists at Samaritan Dental Arts.

What is Emergency Dentistry?

An emergency dentist is someone who is available outside of regular dental office hours to tend to urgent medical needs involving the mouth. Sudden injury or damage that leads to pain, bleeding, and inflammation will only worsen if not tended to right away. If you are in sudden need of dental care, you might be looking for a nearby emergency dentist.

However, not all instances of sudden pain or discomfort warrant an emergency. It is important to know what exactly is considered to be a dental emergency. And what issues might seem severe but can likely wait until the next available appointment.

What Makes a Dental Emergency?

The first thing you need to do when encountering any kind of dental emergency is to remain calm. Everything is going to be okay, and you will be able to find the care you need ASAP. It is time to assess the nature of the damage and your pain levels. You might need to visit an emergency dentist right away if you are experiencing:

  • Bleeding from the mouth, gums, or tooth socket after a tooth has fallen out
  • A missing, loosened, cracked, or broken tooth after physical impact
  • Excruciating amounts of pain that require emergency attention
  • A tooth infection that has spread so rapidly that it is causing too much pain and discomfort to tolerate

You might not need an emergency dentist if you are:

  • not missing a tooth
  • not bleeding
  • your pain is manageable enough to wait until the morning

You can always contact your trusted dentist to find out more about the type of care you need if you are unsure about your current symptoms.

Types of Emergency Treatments Available

Depending on the type of injury you have sustained and the type of care that you need, your dentist may be able to perform an immediate treatment to relieve symptoms of pain. Has your tooth has completely fallen out of your mouth? Then you might be able to save it by placing it in milk and bringing it to the dentist right away. Your tooth can be reattached to your gums. Otherwise, emergency bridges and crowns may need to be made for your mouth.

Major infections can be treated by root canals and tooth extraction in worst-case scenarios. It is important to be in touch with your dentist when you are experiencing any kind of sudden dental pain.

Get 24/7 Emergency Services Today

Samaritan Dental Arts has an available emergency dentist who is available 24/7 to assist with any and all urgent dental care needs. You never want to be faced with an injury. But it is a good idea that you know what to do in the event that you are faced with a dental emergency on your own. Get in touch with us today to learn about how you can access our urgent care services ASAP.

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How Long Should Dental Cleanings Take?

General Dentistry, , ,

People of all ages know about the importance of annual dental cleanings. In fact, most dentists recommend that folks get their teeth professionally cleaned at least twice a year. Patients who visit their trusted dentist in downtown Los Angeles want to know more about how this process works and how much time it usually takes from start to finish.

How Long Should Dental Cleanings Take?

If you are like one of our excellent patients and have the question, “How long should dental cleanings take?”, this article is for you. Keep reading to learn more about the dental cleaning process and find out what’s involved so you can schedule your oral health checkup accordingly.

How Dental Cleanings Work

Depending on the results of your exam, your dentist should typically recommend a dental cleaning that works in a series of steps. These steps can be performed fairly quickly, giving you a smooth and easy process.

Step 1: Screening and Scaling

At the beginning of your dental cleaning, your dentist will first want to remove a layer of dirt and grime that is stuck between your gums and your teeth. They will use a process known as scaling, which uses a small tool to remove this dirt. While this part of cleaning doesn’t take long, the dentist may pause from time to time to ensure you are comfortable.

Step 2: Polishing

After the dirt has been cleaned from your teeth, your dentist will move on to the polishing phase, which is often one of the more enjoyable parts of the dental cleaning process. We can use a polishing paste that comes in a number of different flavors. Your dentist will polish each tooth individually to restore its bright shine. This will also break up plaque and tartar that might have been building up on your teeth over time.

Step 3: Flossing and Brushing

Your dentist will brush and floss your teeth for you. Then we show you the best way to take care of your teeth at home. Using dental-grade floss, they will remove dust and dirt. These might have shown up in between your teeth from the food you eat. If you have any signs of infection or decay, your dentist may go on to recommend that you get a cavity filling. This can typically happen in a separate session.

All that’s left is to rinse out your mouth and your teeth. Your dentist may give you a mouthwash with a pleasing taste to help you feel better after the cleaning process. If you have any more questions about your dental healthcare at this time, please reach out to your trusted dental specialist right away.

Average Treatment Times

Depending on your individual dental needs, your cleaning can take anywhere from 30 to 90 minutes. Your dental team will want to discuss the steps involved in a dental cleaning. This helps ensure that you end up prepared for this type of procedure. It remains a smooth and easy experience that should not cause lingering discomfort when the procedure wraps up. If you can schedule a little bit of time during your day for this important treatment, you should try to make it work for you ASAP.

Learn More About Dental Cleanings Today

At Samaritan Dental Arts, we invest in only the best for your overall health and well-being. Get in touch with our experts to learn more about how you can make the most out of top-notch teeth cleaning in downtown Los Angeles. We offer personalized treatments that center on your individual needs, from basic oral health checkups to individualized plans of care. Get in touch with us today to learn more about our friendly dental services!

concept of someone smiling brighter with inlays and onlays

Smile Brighter with Inlays and Onlays

General Dentistry, ,

If your teeth are damaged or broken, there are many options available. These procedures can make your teeth look better and restore their health. This procedure preserves your natural smile and restores your ability to chew and bite. Let’s see how you can smile brighter with inlays and onlays.

Smile Brighter with Inlays and Onlays

Depending on the severity of the damage, your dentist in Downtown Los Angeles may recommend an inlay or an onlay. These restorative dentistry procedures, which all have variations of the same idea are custom-made to protect your tooth and restore its function. We want to help you smile brighter with inlays and onlays so keep reading to see if this option can work for you!

What Are Inlays?

Dental inlays can be a revolutionary part of restorative dentistry and can be used to repair the tops or teeth. Inlays are natural-looking and can help strengthen your teeth as you chew and bite. Inlays are placed on your tooth’s surface between the bumps (or cusps). This allows you to fix a damaged or decayed tooth and protects your teeth from further damage.

What are Onlays?

Although they are different than inlays, dental onlays can still protect and strengthen your tooth. Restorative dentists also call them “partial crowns”, and they are usually meant to replace the entire tooth’s surface. They can be used to cover all or part of the chewing surface. They can be placed on top of the tooth and treated naturally. Once they are placed, they resemble a natural part of your tooth and will last for several years.

Can You Get Inlays and Onlays at the Same Time?

Both onlays and inlays have their benefits. Depending on the extent of tooth damage, inlays and onlays can be combined. An inlay is best when only a portion of the tooth’s chewing surface has been damaged. The inlay will be placed “inside” the tooth on the cusps. This is to allow you to chew. Onlays are great when the whole tooth is broken. Also, onlay, which covers the entire tooth, is a great option for restoring your smile. Inlays are more like fillings and onlays are like crowns.

Am I a Good Candidate for Inlays or Onlays?

You may be eligible for either inlays or onlays depending on the extent of tooth damage. Inlays and onlays are usually available for those who need a filling but the damage has spread a little too far for a single filling to treat.

You are good for the procedure as long as there is enough natural tooth structure to support the inlay/onlay. You may need a crown to restore your teeth if you have severe damage. Regular visits to the dentist are essential to maintaining your oral health. It is easier for your dentist to detect decay earlier, and it will be possible to have a small filling without causing too much damage.

Biggest Benefits of Inlays & Onlays

Inlays and onlays can be great alternatives for a filling or crown. Let us help you decide if an inlay or onlay is needed by reviewing these benefits for your health.

  • An inlay or onlay can raise the chewing pressure by between 50-75%
  • Fillings are less durable than inlays/onlays
  • Inlays/onlays can either be made of porcelain or resin to match your natural tooth color
  • Inlays and onlays are a type of restorative dentistry that can heal your whole tooth
    Sometimes an inlay or an onlay can be completed in one visit

These are the most crucial single-tooth restorations. These can be used to treat large areas of decay that need a filling or an inlay. An onlay covers only a small portion of the tooth’s cusp. An inlay fills the gap between the cusps. That’s the only difference!

Get the Best Restorative Dentistry Options at Samaritan Dental Arts Today

We offer a bunch of options to help you smile brighter ASAP. Dealing with dental decay becomes more dangerous over time as infection can spread throughout your mouth. Prevent this from happening with top-notch dental inlays and onlays in DTLA. Learn more about our services when you contact our dental experts today. Sign up now for a personal consultation!

Concept image of color-matched dental fillings

Can I Have Color-Matched Dental Fillings?

General Dentistry, ,

Composite dental fillings are tooth-colored fillings that match the color of your natural teeth. Composites can blend seamlessly with virtually any tooth color by custom crafting the color. Composites are a popular cosmetic option for treating your smile’s cavities. But can you have color-matched dental fillings?

Can I Have Color-Matched Dental Fillings?

A lot of patients who visit their dentist in Downtown Los Angeles ask, “Can I have color-matched dental fillings?” The short answer is yes. Dental professionals can match your tooth color with white fillings made of composite resin. Similar matching can be done for any other dental restoration procedure. Learn more about tooth-colored restorations with our helpful information below!

About Dental Fillings

Dental fillings with tooth-colored teeth are a popular alternative to metal. They have gained popularity among patients and dentists over the past decade. These types of fillings do not use metal and instead use acrylic or ceramic materials to repair damaged teeth. For optimal aesthetic results, the material is color-matched to each patient’s tooth. Because of their cosmetic benefits and other factors, younger patients are more likely than older patients to have tooth-colored fillings. However, these fillings are widely available and can be made with one easy office visit.

Why Patients Like Tooth-Colored Fillings

Composite fillings have become the modern choice for fillings. Composite fillings are custom-made to match the natural color of your tooth, making them almost invisible. They are attached to the tooth by bonding the material to it so that they don’t fall off. Composite fillings are a popular choice for patients who want to replace old gold and silver fillings. There are other benefits:

  • Beautiful in appearance
  • All completed in one visit
  • No leaks over time
  • There is less chance of teeth cracking

Composite resins can be color-matched to natural teeth to make white fillings virtually invisible. Composite tooth-colored fillings bond to the tooth, unlike silver or gold fillings. This helps prevent tooth fractures and protects the tooth from extreme temperature changes. Composite fillings are less likely to fall out than metal ones, making them a preferred choice by patients young and old.

Are Color-Matched Fillings Affordable?

Prices for every procedure vary, but generally white fillings are more expensive than metal ones. We have found that white fillings are more appealing than metal because of their unique ability to bond with the teeth and natural appearance. Fortunately, most dental insurance plans will cover the cost of dental fillings since they are a preventative treatment that gets rid of cavities in your mouth.

Replacing Your Metal Fillings with New Color-Matched Options

For cosmetic reasons, white fillings can be more beneficial than metal fillings. Many patients don’t want any brightly colored metal parts to be visible when they smile and eat. White fillings will not cause people to spot your fillings, even when you are pointing them out. Sometimes, even trained dentists can’t see composite fillings!

Metal fillings can also require more tooth removal and replacement. This can lead to issues down the road, as the metal expands or retracts at different temperatures. Some patients still want to have their mercury fillings removed as they can cause different health symptoms including mercury poisoning and chronic infection. Tooth-colored fillings don’t just look better; they are better for your dental health, too!

Get Natural-Looking Fillings with Your Dentist Today!

Samaritan Dental Arts offers a variety of services and treatments that will help you achieve your best smile. You can get professional dental treatment for your dental health, including dental fillings and cosmetic bonding. Contact our experts today to schedule a consultation for your oral health concerns, and see how you can benefit from the best dental fillings in Downtown Los Angeles that support a long life of good dental health.

Dental fillings vs dental bondings 3d concept.

Dental Fillings vs Dental Bonding

General Dentistry, ,

Cosmetic and restorative dentistry offers endless opportunities to improve the health and look of your teeth. If you are dealing with a crack, chip, breakage, or even a cavity, you should reach out to Samaritan Dental in DTLA for a filling or bonding procedure. But what exactly are the differences between dental fillings vs. dental bonding?

Dental Fillings vs Dental Bonding

One procedure is effective against breaks, while the other can help you if you have developed a cavity. Keep reading to find the important details on both of these procedures and find the differences so you know how to best take care of your dental health.

What are Dental Fillings?

Dental fillings are used to fill holes that are caused in your teeth from cavities. Sugar and bacteria can cause decay in the mouth, damaging the teeth over time. The longer you wait to visit the dentist for a cavity, the more the infection can spread. If the signs of decay are small enough, your dentist can carve out the infected part of the tooth and fill it with a composite resin that resembles the look of your natural tooth.

How Dental Fillings Work

Your dentist must first prepare your tooth by giving it a full examination. He ensures the healthy parts of your tooth are strong enough to support a filling procedure. Once the tooth is ready and the material is picked out, your dentist will drill a small hole in the affected area to get rid of the decay. This new hole will be filled with the material. This material prevents further decay from spreading.

What is Dental Bonding?

There are quite a few differences between dental fillings and dental bonding. In fact, they are treatments used for two completely different reasons. Fillings are used to stem the tide of cavities and decay. But dental bonding can be applied when you have a chipped or cracked tooth. While the composite material used to fill in these cracks and breaks can be the same as the filling used for a cavity, they are still different procedures.

How Dental Bonding Works

During the dental bonding process, your dentist will use a small amount of the composite material to fill in the spots of your tooth broken by chips or cracks. Then, a non-contact laser light will be held up to the composite material to dry it in place. You’ll be able to enjoy new cosmetic fixes that restore your teeth back to new while preventing further damage from breaks and cracks.

Fillings and Bondings – What to Expect

Dental fillings and dental bonding use the same materials, but they are applied to your teeth in different ways. Dental bonding is usually seen as a cosmetic dentistry treatment. Also, dental fillings are used to prevent the spread of decay. Both procedures have health and aesthetic benefits that you can take advantage of when you schedule an appointment with your local dental experts.

Your teeth may feel a little sensitive after the procedure, although you should not feel any pain. Make sure to eat soft foods that are not hot or cold as your teeth adjust to these new changes.

Find the Best Dental Treatment for Your Teeth ASAP

At Samaritan Dental Arts, we offer a wide range of services and treatments to help you bring out your very best smile. From dental fillings to cosmetic dental bonding, you can invest in professional dental treatments for the betterment of your health. Get in touch with our experts today. You can schedule a one-on-one consultation so you can address your oral health needs as quickly as possible. Call us today!