What a Dental Cleaning Involves?

Ever wondered why dental cleaning is so important? Is dental cleaning required even if your brush and floss your teeth daily? Why do dentists recommend dental cleaning? One of the significant reasons behind dental cleaning is that the dentist gets a chance to examine your teeth and gums so that any dental issue can be diagnosed and treated on time. The appointment will be followed by dental cleaning by dentist or the dental hygienist.

Why You Should Have Your Teeth Cleaned Professionally

Our saliva contains calcium which protects the teeth. Though saliva has useful properties, it can also lead to calcium deposits on the teeth which can be brown, black or tooth-colored. These deposits transform into calculus over the time, which is also known as tartar. Tartar allows the bacteria to grow and infect your gums. The tartar may be invisible to you, but it gave appropriate environment for the bacteria to grow and affect your gums. Thus, it becomes important to visit a dentist for dental cleaning every few months.

What Should a Professional Teeth Cleaning Involve?

The professional cleaning also known as prophylaxis consists of:

  • Flossing
  • Removing tartar and plaque
  • Polishing
  • Applying Fluoride

Here’s a Look at the Steps:

  • The first step is just like flossing where the ultrasonic instrument is used for removing large pieces of tartar and scalers and curettes are used for removing small pieces of tartar.
  • The next step is teeth polishing. It is done with a hand device with rubber tip that spins. The tip will be loaded by prophylaxis paste and it will run on the back and front of the teeth. It will make the teeth smooth and shiny.
  • Some dentists may also apply fluoride as tartar weakens the surface of the teeth.

It is advised not to eat or drink for at least 30 to 40 minutes after the fluoride treatment. The dental cleaning may take around 30 to 60 minutes but may take longer depending on the tartar deposit. A dental cleaning is never painful or uncomfortable.

Helping Your Child Overcome Dental Anxiety

The dentist office can be an intimidating place for many patients, and even more so for children, who can be scared by the gloved hands, bright lights, and strange equipment. Very young children might also be scared because they don’t know what to expect. Fortunately, parents can do a lot to soothe these fears so that when the time comes to visit your dentist at Carlsbad Coastal Dental in Carlsbad, CA, your little one might not be so nervous.

Start early

According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD), children should have their first dental visit by their first birthday. Getting your child to the dentist early introduces them to the dental environment and gives them a chance to understand what the dentist office is for and what happens there; it helps them get more comfortable in that environment to prepare for future visits. Early visits have an added benefit of allowing you, the parents, to become more comfortable with the dental team as well.

Make it fun

To prepare for the first appointment, consider doing some role play at home. Pretend to be the dentist and go through the “routine” at the dentist office, showing your child what it might feel like in the dentist chair, with someone poking around in their mouth. You can even switch roles and let him or her play dentist as well. Because the experience is being introduced to them in a familiar and comfortable place, their home, it should make them feel more at ease when they go through the real thing.

Keep secrets

If you have dental fears or anxieties of your own, keep them to yourself for now. Often, if a parent is afraid of something, their child will be, too. In addition to this, try to avoid making the dentist sound scary or intimidating – don’t use words like “shot” or “pain” and don’t share any bad experiences you may have had.

Talk about it

If your child’s first dental visit didn’t go very smoothly and he or she is now apprehensive about returning, let us know ahead of time at Carlsbad Coastal Dental. That will help us prepare for your visit and work with your child to overcome their fear.

Visit regularly

Like with anything else, the more often you visit the dentist, the easier each visit will get. By keeping the recommended two dental visits a year, you will not only be aiding your child’s oral health, but you will be getting them more comfortable with visiting the dentist and fostering good habits.

Schedule your appointment at Carlsbad Coastal Dental in Carlsbad, CA today.

Preparing for Dental Bridges: What to Expect

Have you been told that you may need a dental bridge to restore your smile but have questions about the procedure? If so, keep reading to learn what you need to know to best prepare for this effective dental restoration procedure.

Understanding the Initial Dental Bridge Consultation

When a patient is missing a tooth or multiple teeth, an in-person consultation is critical to determine the best possible treatment plan. During this consultation, the dentist will examine the extent of tooth loss, evaluate the health of your remaining teeth, and determine whether or not a dental bridge is the right treatment option for your individual needs.

Next Step: Determining the Ideal Bridge to Use

There are three types of Dental Bridges that are most commonly used; a traditional dental bridge, a crown-supported dental bridge, or an implant-supported dental bridge. The names pretty much describe the differences between them. A traditional dental bridge is fixed in place to bridge the gap between the missing teeth; a crown-supported dental bridge incorporates the use of dental crowns on both sides of the bridge; and an implant-supported dental bridge is held in place with dental implants.

Removal of a Tooth or Teeth Might Be Required

In order to prepare for a dental bridge, additional teeth may need to be removed in certain situations, especially when there is decay present or the need for the bridge has arisen due to some type of trauma.

Prepping Teeth for a Fixed Bridge: What You Need to Know

If your dentist has determined that you will need a crown-supported bridge, it’s important to prepare the teeth that will be capped with crowns. This preparation will involve removing some of the tooth enamel to accommodate the crown., but you can rest assured that every effort is made to ensure the process does not negatively impact your overall dental health.

Pre-Op Concerns for Patients Getting Dental Implants in Carlsbad

There are a few factors that will be taken into consideration by your dentist. Suitability for surgery is important, for one. And since each procedure is unique, your dentist will provide you with pre-op instructions that are appropriate for your situation – whether it’s a traditional dental bridge, a crown-supported dental bridge, or an implant-supported dental bridge.

Looking for a Second Opinion? Consider Carlsbad Coastal Dental

At our Carlsbad dental office, we utilize the latest, most advanced technology such as CEREC technology, digital imaging, and even intraoral cameras. Using state-of-the-art technology and the latest treatment options allows us to provide safer, healthier and more effective care to our patients. Please consider us for all your dental needs.

Why Partial Dentures Are Still a Reliable Choice

Innovations with medicine and in the dentistry field have allowed for more successful and effective treatments. Partial Dentures have been used for several years by dentists in the area as a method in restoring individual or a set of missing teeth. Our team at Carlsbad Coastal Dentist in California provide high quality and custom care to each of our patients and partial dentures have given us additional opportunities to show this. Why are partial dentures still a reliable choice? Keep reading on to find out more!

How Does a Partial Denture Work in Carlsbad, CA?

Partial dentures can benefit individuals who are missing a single or multiple missing teeth in their mouth. Our Carlsbad Coastal Dentist team can fit the partial dentures around the existing teeth for a perfect fit. The new restoration can be set on a metal or plastic base that is secured by the surrounding teeth.

When Is a Partial Denture the Right Choice?

Your dentist may recommend a partial denture for several different reasons, including one of the following:

  • If several teeth are missing, then partial dentures may be a more affordable option and do not require any surgical procedures or healing periods.
  • Teeth missing in the lower jaw can also benefit as some people find it harder to get accustomed to complete dentures.
  • Partial dentures can help to preserve the health and aesthetic of your smile as it lowers the risk of shifting teeth.

Is a Partial Denture Your Best Option?

There are several different methods for tooth replacements. Each come with their own list of pros and cons. Therefore, it is up to each individual to speak with their experienced dentist and decide with restoration is best for their specific situation and needs. If you are looking for the best way to replace your missing teeth, then we encourage you to contact our Carlsbad Coastal Dental office for more information on treatment options. Call our clinic today to set up a consultation with a member of our experienced staff and see how we can restore your smile and boost your confidence.

5 Common Misconceptions About Porcelain Veneers

If your teeth have suffered the effects of decay, trauma, or just daily wear and tear or staining, Porcelain Veneers can offer your smile a fresh start. Veneers do an excellent job covering discoloration and concealing those teeth that are slightly misaligned.

Despite all porcelain veneers can offer, many are hesitant to consider them as a real solution to their dental issues. At Carlsbad Coastal Dental in Carlsbad, CA 92008 we want you to make an informed decision based on the facts! Read on to discover some of the most common misconceptions about porcelain veneers.

Misconception #1: Application is Painful

As with any major dental procedure, your dentist will administer a local anesthetic before getting started. This means that you won’t feel any pain during the application process.

Misconception #2: Veneers Are Only Needed For Front Teeth

While it is common for veneers to be placed on the most visible teeth- the front six on the top, they can also be placed on bottom teeth and premolars.

Misconception #3: The Entire Tooth Must Be Filed Down For Veneers To Be Placed

Only minimal reshaping is usually needed to place a veneer, maintaining the integrity of the body of the tooth.

Misconception #4: Veneers Are Only For Aesthetics

Though most individuals get veneers to enhance the appearance of their smile, veneers can also be used to give the cheeks a fuller, more youthful appearance and to rebuild damaged molars.

Misconception #5: Veneers Always Look Unnatural

Modern technology has improved veneers to look indistinguishable from a natural tooth in both texture and color. The shape can also be modified to match existing teeth.

If you suffer from embarrassing stains or the effects of trauma or decay, there is a solution! Veneers can restore your smile and your confidence. Please call us today at Carlsbad Coastal Dental in Carlsbad, CA. Dr. Thylin will be happy to answer any of your questions about veneers in a stress-free consultation. Your perfect smile can be a reality!

THE CONVENIENCE OF A SAME-DAY DENTAL CROWN

Carlsbad Coastal Dental offers you top-of-the-line same-day dental crowns. To deliver this convenience, we use CEREC (Ceramic Reconstruction) technology that lets us make your crown a perfect fit in one day. Our crown fabrication mill is in-house, meaning we do everything right under one roof. That’s a huge convenience.

What Is a Dental Crown?

A dental crown is a “cap,” or covering for your tooth. Crowns are placed by a dentist near you and restores a tooth to its best function, shape and size. Dental crowns make teeth function better and look great. Crowns replace damaged or worn away biting surfaces, cover discolored teeth, and add strength and support for decayed, cracked or severely eroded teeth.

The Advantage of Same-Day Dental Crowns

Same-day dental crowns are the latest in convenient dental care.

  • Same-day crowns prevent infection, decay and tooth damage
  • CEREC crowns will improve the color, shape, function and even the appearance of the affected tooth
  • CEREC crowns function and look just like a natural tooth.
  • Same day crowns are custom made to be a perfect fit and match the natural color shade of your teeth.
  • Our CEREC crowns can be designed and milled in just one appointment.

What’s the Process of Getting a Same-Day Dental Crown?

With CEREC at Carlsbad Dental Clinic, we don’t need to take an impression or fit you for a temporary solution. Sophisticated imagining equipment scans your tooth, while a computerized mill creates the tooth right in our office. We use computer-assisted design to get your crown to you on the same day.

How Much Does A Same-Day Dental Crown Cost?

A same-day dental crown costs between 500 and 2500 dollars for the crown and materials. We accept Care Credit and many insurances.

Experience the convenience of a same-day dental crowns at Carlsbad Coastal Dental, in Carlsbad Coastal Dental, CA, near Vista CA.

5 Things to Know About Topical Fluoride Treatment

Fluoride has slowly but surely been getting a bad reputation thanks to social media and news media outlets. Most dentists recommend using toothpaste with fluoride in it, and many over-the-counter mouth rinses are sold with fluoride as its main active ingredient. In the following article, we will discuss different types of fluoride, that are not available for purchase at your drug store or the grocery store, a professional fluoride Treatment. Fluoride treatments are prescription strength and applied only topically. Let’s take a look at five things to know about these fluoride treatments.

Fluoride is a Natural Mineral

Fluoride is a mineral that’s found in rocks, water, and soil. Many may not know, but fluoride is the 13th most abundant element in the Earth’s crust. Fluoride naturally appears in the ground at different levels, which is the answer to why certain cities or counties have fluoride in their drinking water while others have none.

Worth the Cost

The cost of fluoride treatment is worth it. Fluoride treatment can be significantly less expensive than the cost of repairing a tooth because of decay. Fluoride treats teeth to prevent this kind of softening of the tooth structure and is often used as a preventative therapy.

Not Just for Kids!

Fluoride treatments are not just for the kids in your family. Fluoride naturally improves the remineralization process of any tooth surface. You don’t have to be a kid to be prone to cavities, so anyone with high risk for tooth decay should go to their local dental professional for fluoride treatments on a regular basis. Patients that have special needs and are unable to keep their teeth clean also experience the greater possibility of cavities. These patients would do well in considering fluoride treatment on a regular basis.

Reverse Small Cavities!

At the earliest stage of a cavity also known as an incipient lesion, these early cavities can be stopped by professional fluoride treatments and good oral hygiene at home. In order to prevent a cavity, using a topical fluoride solution can hinder its progress to a stage that requires intense dental procedures.

Safe

First and foremost, fluoride treatments at prescription strength our safe. There is, however, a risk associated with fluoride intake, such as when it is ingested on a prescription strength fluoride toothpaste. Topical fluoride treatments done in our offices are closely monitored by a dental professional to ensure that nothing goes wrong.

At Carlsbad Coastal Dental in Carlsbad, CA our concern in making sure that all of our patients stay on top of the latest in dental news is made apparent here on our blog. By ensuring you know the most about possible dental treatments, we keep you from being worried about coming into our office. If you still have questions about topical fluoride treatments, send us an email or give us a call today to schedule a consultation.

Extra Smile Protection With Dental Sealants

Both dental professionals and patients are always looking for new ways to protect teeth and fight off the effects of decay. Our team at Carlsbad Coastal Dental offers a wide range of dental services that work as preventive and restorative options in keeping and restoring a healthy smile. Dental Sealants have been shown to be an effective method in protecting smiles, and our staff provides high-quality options. Continue reading on to see how you can have extra smile protection with the help of dental sealants.

What are Dental Sealants?

Dental sealants are individually applied to each tooth and provide an extra layer of protection as they help to seal out bacteria and other debris that could cause tooth decay or lead to infection. Plaque is that sticky biofilm made of bacterial buildup that attaches to teeth and leads to other dental issues. Investing in dental sealants helps to avoid procedures and costs down the line. They are painted on to the chewing surface of a tooth and typically used in the back molar teeth that are hard to reach. Sealants are biodegradable and will disappear on their own over time.

Who Can Benefit From Dental Sealants?

Dental sealants are recommended to individuals at any age and are not solely used for children. They are useful to any one individual that is looking for further protection and assistance in keeping their teeth healthy.

Paired with good smile care, dental sealants can last several years and a protective aid for smiles. Our dental team can frequently check up on the state of your dental sealants during your biannual dental exam and cleaning appointments. We encourage good oral hygiene habits that will help to keep your preventative treatments working well and your smile healthy. Dental sealants are recommended to individuals at any age and are not solely used for children.

If you are interested in receiving dental sealants for your smile, then contact our office at Carlsbad Coastal Dental for more information. Call us to schedule your next consultation and see what other services we offer!

Benefits of Single-Tooth Dental Implants

Most people will lose one or more teeth by the time they reach their senior years. Some might consider between teeth gaps a cosmetic concern. This is only part of the problem, failing to replace missing teeth can lead to a number of oral health issues. Patients with recent tooth loss or who will soon have a tooth extraction, one of the safest and most effective solutions are single tooth dental implants in Raleigh, NC.

Your Mouth After Tooth Loss

Besides eating and speaking, teeth serve a number of roles. The roots extend deep down into the jaw and stimulate healthy bone. When the root is no longer in place, the bone is no longer actively stimulated and becomes weak. Patients missing a single tooth or several, are at an increased risk for developing tooth decay, malocclusion, gum disease, and facial deformities. Removable dentures or a fixed bridge can help, but they don’t address all issues involved with missing teeth.

What are Single-Tooth Dental Implants?

Implants are a popular option for long-term tooth replacement near you. Dental implant treatment starts with a titanium post that gets inserted into the jaw bone. This prosthetic tooth root supports a custom-made dental crown that replaces the missing tooth.

The Procedure and Results

The process of inserting a single-tooth implant can usually be completed in about an hour. During this time, the post is surgically implanted into the bone. Once the treatment area has healed and the bone has fused with the implant, a dental crown is attached to the exposed abutment piece, restoring the patients smile.

With proper aftercare, the titanium post should last for the remainder of a patients’ life. The crown may last for about 15 or more years. Single-tooth implants restore mouth function, self-confidence, and quality of life. Patients can enjoy food again, smile freely and speak without hesitation.

If you are suffering from tooth loss, single-tooth dental implants may help you get your life back. At Carlsbad Coastal Dental we use CEREC technology in Raleigh, NC, in some cases, we can provide same-day dental implants.

How Does Bone Grafting Work?

Dental Implants are an incredibly effective solution for replacing missing teeth. Following a successful implant procedure, patients are able once again to talk, smile, and eat with the confidence that they did before their tooth loss. The procedure requires a healthy mouth and sufficient bone structure. Decay or disease must be addressed before undergoing the procedure, and a bone graft may be necessary to build up the jawbone.

The first step in a bone graft procedure is to obtain the graft tissue. This normally comes from bone in another part of the patient’s body, but it can also come from donors, animals, or be made synthetically. During the procedure, the gums are temporarily lifted from the underlying bone. The graft tissue is then attached with a screw or a special dissolving membrane to the bone. The gums are sutured back into place over the newly-placed tissue and the site is left to heal.

When are bone grafts necessary?

Patients who lack a strong and healthy bone structure will require a bone graft to build up the bone before an implant can be placed. If a tooth is replaced soon after it has been lost, the jawbone is usually sufficiently strong as it has not been affected by disease. However, if a significant amount of time has passed between the loss of a tooth and the attempt to replace it, it’s more likely that jaw health will have declined – without having to support a tooth, the jawbone gradually weakens and deteriorates, making a bone graft necessary.

If you have missing teeth and are considering having dental implants placed, contact our office today for a consultation.