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Signs You Have Obstructive Sleep Apnea

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Obstructive sleep apnea is a common and potentially dangerous condition caused by the throat muscles blocking the flow of air to the lungs during sleep. In this article, we discuss the signs of obstructive sleep apnea and why you should seek professional sleep apnea treatment.

 

Signs You Have Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Below, we list some of the most common symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea. However, remember that only your doctor can give you an accurate diagnosis after a comprehensive medical exam.

  • Snoring loudly
  • Periods of not breathing during sleep
  • Gasping for air or choking during sleep
  • Dryness in the mouth in the morning
  • Having headaches in the morning
  • Difficulties falling or staying asleep
  • Feeling sleepy and tired during the day
  • Difficulty concentrating during the day
  • Feeling irritable 

 

Complications of Sleep Apnea

If you experience any of the symptoms listed above, we recommend seeking professional medical help as soon as possible. This sleep disorder can cause life-threatening consequences, as it increases pressure in the heart and blood vessels. As a result, heart damage and heart failure might occur. Other complications of sleep apnea include:

  • Type 2 diabetes due to the increased risk of developing insulin resistance
  • Metabolic syndrome, which includes high blood pressure, sugar, and cholesterol levels
  • Liver issues because sleep apnea might increase the risk of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease
  • Sleep deprivation, fatigue during the day, and trouble concentrating
  • Potential complications during surgeries and sedation

 

What Causes Obstructive Sleep Apnea

In the back of our throats, muscles support the palate, the uvula, the tongue, the tonsils, and the walls of the throat. When these muscles relax and can no longer provide necessary support, the airway in the throat becomes too narrow for the air to pass freely. In some cases, the airway can become blocked entirely. This condition causes snoring, choking, and constant waking for up to 30 times an hour during the night.

 

Risk Factors for Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea can occur regardless of age or gender. However, there are several risk factors for this condition:

  • Excessive weight or obesity, which can cause fat deposits to accumulate near the upper airway, obstructing breathing at night
  • Having a naturally thicker neck structure and narrow airways
  • Enlarged adenoids or tonsils that block airways (an often cause of sleep apnea in children)
  • Advanced age
  • Being male (according to statistics, males have sleep apnea 2 to 3 times more often than women)
  • Family history of sleep apnea
  • Smoking (increases the inflammation and fluid retention in the throat and airway)
  • Consumption of alcohol or sedative drugs that increase muscle relaxation, including muscles in the throat
  • Trouble breathing through the nose due to anatomical structure or chronic nasal congestion 
  • Medical conditions, such as high blood pressure, congestive heart failure, prior stroke, diabetes type 2, hormonal issues, asthma, polycystic ovary syndrome, and others

 

Obstructive Sleep Apnea Treatment Methods

In general, there are two ways to treat sleep apnea: surgical and nonsurgical. Surgical procedures include:

  • Removal of some of the tissue from the top of the throat and the back of the mouth
  • Tonsils or adenoid removal
  • Maxillomandibular advancement (jaw surgery)—repositioning the upper and lower parts of the jaw by moving them forward and thus enlarging the area behind the tongue and soft palate
  • Surgical implantation of an impulse generator device under the skin in the upper chest for upper airway stimulation
  • Tracheostomy—surgically creating an opening in the neck and inserting a tube for air to pass to and from the lungs, avoiding the blocked area in the throat (this method is usually employed if other methods have failed and sleep apnea condition is life-threatening)
  • Nasal surgeries to improve the structure of the nose, thus allowing the air to pass freely through the nose (in cases when nasal structure or congestion issues cause sleep apnea)

The most common nonsurgical options for obstructive sleep apnea treatment include:

  • Using continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) masks and headgear. With this method of treatment, a machine delivers the air through a device that is placed in or over your nose or mouth while you sleep. CPAP devices are a common and effective method of treating sleep apnea.
  • Wearing a mouthpiece at night that keeps the airway in the throat open during sleep. Such devices can reduce the symptoms of sleep apnea by bringing the lower jaw forward or holding the tongue in a different position.

 

Make an Appointment Today

Do not postpone seeing an obstructive sleep apnea specialist in Los Angeles if you experience breathing disruptions and loud snoring at night or suffer from other sleep apnea symptoms during the day. We look forward to welcoming you to the Samaritan Dental office.

 

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6 Lifestyle Choices that Improve Dental Health

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Taking care of your oral health is an essential part of everyday life. If you are like most people living in this modern world, you have likely been taught the importance of brushing your teeth every day. While this is a good rule to live by, it’s often the case that people don’t do much else to care for their dental health.

6 Lifestyle Choices that Improve Dental Health

While we certainly want to see you at our downtown LA dental office for regular checkups and cleanings, we don’t want you to suffer from poor dental health that results in cavities or tooth loss. That’s why we are using today’s article to list the top 6 lifestyle choices that improve dental health.

Eat More Vitamins and Minerals

The things you put in your body can greatly determine your overall health. Food is the most powerful drug, and your gut has a great effect on the calcium and bone in your teeth. In particular, vitamins C, A, D, and K all promote a healthy mouth while strengthening your immune system overall. These vitamins can come from leafy green vegetables, salmon, nuts, and some dairy products.

Drink More Water

You may have heard about the importance of drinking at least 8 cups of water per day. Not only is water necessary for keeping you hydrated and healthy, but it also promotes a healthy mouth by allowing you to wash away bacteria that would otherwise get stuck on the teeth. Water also contains fluoride, which is a helpful ingredient for strengthening your enamel against harmful bacteria and decay.

Visit Your Dentist Often

Even if you are struggling to maintain good dental health habits on your own, you can still invest in oral healthcare by taking regular trips to your dentist’s office. We typically suggest that patients visit us once every 6 months, getting a deep cleaning twice a year while being screened for possible oral health issues. This is also a great time to get treatment for cavities before signs of decay transform into a full-on infection.

Balance Out Your Diet

Back to the topic of food, it is important that you are balancing your diet by eating more healthy foods and cutting down on unhealthy options. Items high in processed sugar contain harmful bacteria that can infect your teeth and gums, leading to serious dental health issues as time goes on. Certain sticky foods can make it difficult to remove these bits of bacteria from the teeth as they quickly stick to the enamel. If you are craving something sweet, try a piece of fruit or a sugar-free snack instead.

Stop Drinking Soda, Too

In addition to sugary foods, sugary drinks should also be reduced in your daily life. Soda pop, fruit juice, sports drinks, and wines can all contain way more than the recommended amount of daily sugar intake. Not to mention, sugar in liquid is easily delivered straight to your teeth, where it will stay and build up until you brush it off. Save these kinds of drinks for special occasions.

Quit Smoking and Drinking

Cutting tobacco or alcohol out of your life is probably much easier said than done. You don’t need to be preached about when it comes to the negative effects of these drugs, but a reminder to cut back on these harmful substances can help you shift focus back to your dental health. Smoking increases the likelihood that you will develop gum disease, cancer, and other oral health issues. Alcohol makes it more difficult for your body to heal, allowing infection to spread more rapidly.

Improve Your Lifestyle with Our Family Dental Services Today

Whether you want to prevent falling into a cycle of poor health or you are trying to come back after years of neglecting your teeth, you can find the perfect treatment with us at Samaritan Dental Arts. Get top-notch testing and treatment for cavities while we work with you to establish a lifelong plan of care. Turn your life around and feel better about your oral healthcare options when you contact us today!

What Causes Sore or Swollen Gums?

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When you engage in regular dental hygiene, it can be normal to see a little pink in the sink every so often. This means that sometimes when you brush and floss, there’s a little bit of blood. There are many reasons why you may be bleeding and some of them are health reasons. But when it comes to your gums, it’s important to listen to the signs your mouth is telling you.

A little blood is no big deal. But if that blood also comes with sensitive, sore, or painful gums, it might be time to assess the issue. Our friendly professionals at Samaritan Dental want you to know about the warning signs your gums might be giving you. If you’re dealing with irritated or swollen gums, here are some reasons why that may be happening. Be sure to contact our office for a consultation ASAP!

It’s All About Bacteria

If you don’t practice daily dental hygiene as adamantly as you should, you may experience a variety of dental problems down the line. One such problem is the formation of bad bacteria on your teeth and gums. When this bacterium doesn’t get brushed or flossed away every day, it causes a buildup of plaque and tartar on the teeth. This is a dangerous substance which makes the gums infected, creating those sore and swollen symptoms you may be used to. This is a gateway to gum disease, and it’s important to make a dentist appointment right away.

Look at the Way You Brush

Sometimes, the reasons for the soreness and swelling in your gums aren’t as serious as something like gum disease. Often, the way we brush or floss maybe just a little too harsh for our mouths to handle. It’s important to invest in healthy brushing and flossing techniques so that we can be the right amount of gentle yet firm. Your teeth and gums shouldn’t be bleeding every time you brush; that is a sure sign that something is going wrong. Instead, be gentler with your floss, letting it slide itself between your teeth on its own, rather than forcing it.

Gingivitis

Gingivitis is a diagnosis that is typically given to someone who is experiencing swollen, irritated, and receding gums. This is a condition that often leads to gum disease; in fact, it is simply a milder version of it. Gingivitis is a serious issue that can be treated but requires a lot of dental attention and your best care.

Some of the symptoms of gingivitis include:

  • Tender or painful gums
  • Constant bad breath despite brushing
  • Pockets forming between the teeth and gums
  • Changes in your bite
  • Loose teeth
  • Bleeding gums every time you brush

Even if you don’t necessarily feel any discomfort, you still may be suffering from gingivitis. In order to prevent yourself from developing periodontitis, a more serious condition that wears away at your bone and gums, be sure to contact your friendly professionals at Samaritan Dental right away.

Get Your Gums in Good Health ASAP!

When it comes to the health of your gums, you can’t afford to wait until it’s too late. Each day you show the symptoms of gum disease, gingivitis, or periodontitis, your condition might be progressing. Ultimately, having your gums in bad shape can also affect the integrity of your entire mouth. You will be more prone to cavities, tooth loss, biting difficulties, and even bone loss.

These problems can be corrected once they’re caught, but it takes effort on both parts; the patient must invest in good dental hygiene in order to stay consistent with a treatment plan. Our dentists at Samaritan Dental can come up with a treatment solution that works best for you. If you are interested in making an appointment with us, please contact us online or give us a call at (213) 986-2933 to start your consultation.

Why Do Our Teeth Get Sensitive?

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It’s not uncommon for people with sensitive teeth to avoid eating cold food or drinking hot beverages. If hot, cold, sweet, acidic foods cause your teeth to be sensitive or painful, then you understand what we’re talking about. According to the Academy of General Dentistry, roughly 40 million U.S. adults experience tooth sensitivity, which can come and go over time. Read on to learn more about proper oral health from your downtown Los Angeles dentist Samaritan Dental Arts.

Causes

Tooth sensitivity happens when the enamel, which is supposed to protect our teeth, gets thinner or our gums recede, and the underlying surface is exposed and there is not a strong layer of protection over the tooth and root. There are a variety of dental issues that can cause teeth to become sensitive. A common habit that can cause sensitivity is worn tooth enamel that comes from using a hard-bristled toothbrush and brushing much too aggressively. Tooth erosion can also be caused by eating a lot of acidic foods and beverages.

 

A more significant issue, tooth decay can happen when previous fillings erode or if you have broken teeth that expose the dentin of your tooth. Receding gum lines can also cause problems because the root surface of your teeth becomes exposed. If you have the bad habit of grinding your teeth at night, this can cause sensitivity and some people develop a temporary sensitivity right after major dental work such as crowns or tooth bleaching.

Treatment Options

If you haven’t been to the dentist in a while, the first step is to make an appointment right away and tell them about your tooth sensitivity. Make sure you describe exactly what you are feeling, what types of foods or drinks trigger the pain, and when the pain first began. Once your dentist determines the cause of your sensitivity, treatment may be as easy as filling a cavity or replacing a broken or worn filling. If you have a more serious issue like significant gum loss, you might require a gum graft. If you are experiencing pain, and need immediate relief, you may need emergency dentistry.

 

There are many over-the-counter type remedies for tooth sensitivity as well, including using a toothpaste specifically for those with tooth sensitivity. Use it each time you brush, and you should notice a difference in as little as two weeks. In severe cases, your dentist might advise rubbing some of the toothpaste directly onto the sensitive area of your teeth.

 

If toothpaste isn’t enough, your dentist can also use a fluoride gel to strengthen the tooth enamel. This can help to ease the pain as you look to treat the cause of the sensitivity.

Dentist in Downtown Los Angeles

If you are looking for a dentist in downtown Los Angeles, contact our professionals at Samaritan Dental Arts. We are open on Saturdays and offer evening appointments. You can easily schedule an appointment online. You can also fill out the necessary forms, meet the team of professionals and view a complete list of services. They offer flexible payment options and a caring staff ready to help ease your fears.

 

Don’t take your dental health for granted and don’t set a bad example for your kids. It might seem like a minor inconvenience now, but if left untreated, you could develop serious issues that could impact your overall health or that of your children. For the best dentist in downtown Los Angeles, make your appointment with Samaritan Dental Arts today.

Fun Ways to Get Your Children to Care About Brushing

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Starting your children out with proper oral hygiene habits is a valuable tool in setting them up for success as they grow up. Poor oral hygiene can lead to other health issues later in life, so you want to get your kids excited about brushing and taking care of their teeth in general. But how can you convince your kids that brushing is fun? Read on to learn some fun tips from downtown Los Angeles dentist Samaritan Dental Arts.

Establish the Why of Brushing Early

Dental experts recommend establishing consistent oral hygiene routines as early as possible. Some kids will gravitate to the process with no complaints, while others just may hate having something like that in their mouth. There are training toothbrushes you can get to introduce your toddler to the process but for many toddlers who constantly ask, “Why?” just explaining the reasoning behind what you’re doing just might do the trick. Don’t scare your child but, in an age appropriate way, let them know the importance of taking care of their teeth so they last a lifetime.

Make it Fun

One of the easiest things you can do is let your child choose a fun toothbrush. Whether it’s Disney characters, cars, dinosaurs or other cartoon characters, there are a variety of children’s toothbrushes to choose from. Let your child choose one that interests them, and you might even find some fun toothpaste to match. Give them some ownership of the process and the complaints about having to brush might disappear.

 

Kids are competitive, especially with their parents. Try making a game out of brushing and setting a good example at the same time. Challenge your child to see if they can brush better than you and you just might get them motivated enough to try to “beat” you.

 

In making it a game, you can also set up a rewards system that directly draws them back to good oral hygiene. It’s not a good idea to try and pay your kids but maybe give them a little wiggle room at bedtime if they brush before bed. For example, maybe let them stay up an extra 15 or 30 minutes. You can set larger goals as well. For example, maybe offer something important that they want after a consistent 30 days of quality brushing. Choose a reward that really means something to your child that will reward them for establishing this important lifelong habit.

Lead by Example

If making it fun just doesn’t work, then you might just have to make brushing your teeth at the same time the routine of the night. Lead by example and model good brushing habits to your children. Young children want to be like mom and dad so make sure you are teaching them right!

Finding the Right Dentist

If you are looking for a dentist in downtown Los Angeles, contact the professionals at Samaritan Dental Arts. They are open on Saturdays and offer evening appointments. You can easily schedule an appointment online. You can also fill out the necessary forms, meet our team of professionals and view a complete list of services. We offer flexible payment options and a caring staff ready to help ease your fears.

 

Don’t take your dental health for granted and don’t set a bad example for your kids. It might seem like a minor inconvenience now, but if left untreated, you could develop serious issues that could impact your overall health or that of your children. For the best dentist in downtown Los Angeles, make your appointment with Samaritan Dental Arts today.

Most Common Swollen Gum Causes

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Swollen Gum Causes

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.

Is it Snoring or Sleep Apnea?

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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

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Father and daughter brushing their teeth in the bathroom

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.

unhappy woman suffering toothache over dental office background

Why are Root Canals Done?

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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.

Rapidly Remove Years of Stains with Teeth Whitening

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One of the most popular cosmetic dental procedures in cosmetic dentistry Los Angeles is  teeth whitening. Plenty of cosmetic dental patients may show pay extra special attention to their smile, but they still find their smile to be covered in yellow. Many Los Angeles patients fail to remember that a dazzling smile requires proper oral hygiene as well as regular in-office visits and when it comes to stained teeth, the best solution is in-office teeth whitening treatment. Even if you are one of the 78 percent of Americans who have had at least one dental cavity by age 17, you are likely longing for a brighter and whiter smile.

Teeth whitening can change your overall image like nothing else imaginable. Teeth whitening procedures from a cosmetic dentist are the safest form of tooth bleaching that provides the fastest results compared to over-the-counter products. Los Angeles teeth whitening is a powerful solution that removes organic stains and discolorations caused by natural aging, consumption of certain foods and tobacco use. Ideal teeth whitening candidates are patients who have healthy teeth and show a deep interest in having a brighter smile.

Which Foods Discolor Teeth?

There are three common factors that contribute to food related tooth discoloration – chromogens, acidity, and tannins. Chromgens are intensely pigmented molecules contained in food and beverages that latch on tooth enamel. Highly acidic food and beverages are capable of eroding and staining teeth by facilitating the latching of chromogens. Tannins are a group of phenol compounds found in plants that we mix in with certain foods, which are known to enhance the ability of chromogens. Generally speaking, the more intense the color of a food or beverage item, is the higher the risk that it stains teeth. The top foods and beverages that cause tooth stains include:

  • Wine

  • Tea and coffee

  • Dark soda

  • Berries

  • Sweets and hard candy

In-office Teeth Whitening Most Effective

Having a brighter smile does come with a price, but having treatment from a CDA cosmetic dentist is your safest option. There are several over-the-counter products that your dentist can suggest, but they do not stand in comparison to in-office teeth whitening. As per the  California Dental Association, consulting with the guidance of a cosmetic dentist about the best available teeth whitening procedure serves as the safe and effective treatment that do not damage your teeth or gums. In-office teeth whitening products are regulated by an experienced dentist who dazzles your smile several shades brighter than you could ever achieve.

Make sure to contact Dr. Zabolian about your best options for teeth whitening and whether or not your teeth and gums are healthy enough a cosmetic dental procedure that removes the toughest teeth stains.