You already know that saliva is important for chewing, breaking down food into smaller particles and providing them with moisture that makes swallowing easier. What you may not know is that it plays an important role in your overall wellness. In fact, it is considered one of the most important fluids in the body, a kind of bloodstream for the mouth. See the breakdown below with the help of our Panorama City dentist!

Saliva is Composed of Many Helpful Minerals

Saliva consists of water, proteins, digestive enzymes for protein, fats, and carbohydrates, minerals like calcium, fluoride that keeps teeth hard, antibodies, and other substances. It is even checked in medical emergencies to help determine whether someone is going to survive and used to diagnose periodontal (gum) disease, as well as test for HIV and COVID-19. Research has been promising for using saliva in diagnosis of oral and breast cancer and viral hepatitis.

If your mouth is dry it generally means you are not drinking enough water, but are likely indulging in caffeinated or alcoholic drinks that cause dry mouth. Chewing more thoroughly will help generate more saliva and chewing gum can also stimulate production (ideally sweetened with Xylitol, which is low calorie, safe for diabetics, and actually fights oral bacteria). Chewing also helps clean the teeth and gums. Our Panorama City dentist highly recommends finding chewing gum that has the ADA logo on it, which means it is dentist approved!

Increasing Mouth Moisture

According to Johns Hopkins University, other ways to increase mouth moisture include having a humidifier where you work or live, spraying water into the mouth periodically, adding more liquid to foods such as soup, switching to alcohol-free mouthwashes, keeping nasal passages moist, taking laxatives (which draw water into the intestines and mouth), taking prescription medications to reverse dryness, and even acupuncture.

Schedule Your Visit to Our Panorama City Dentist

Our Panorama City dentist is, of course, an expert on all aspects of oral health. The American Dental Association strongly recommends that you have a full dental examination twice a year, since small problems can become big ones if not detected early in their development. About a third of Americans, however, do not even have a dental exam once a year, often because of unnecessary fear about dentistry being painful. In fact, there is a wide array of anesthetic options for any procedure, but the sooner you know the status of oral health, the quicker any problems can be addressed. If you have not had an exam recently, call us to set up an appointment as soon as possible.

The post Why Is Saliva Important to Your Dental Health? appeared first on Panorama City Dentist.

The sentence everyone dreads hearing from their dentist.

The truth is, cavities are very common, and when caught early enough – they can be easily treated. But when left alone, cavities can be painful and cause further damage. So most dentists recommend removing any decayed parts of your tooth and restoring it with filling.

But what you might not expect is tooth pain that comes after.

Tooth sensitivity (or pain) after a filling

A cavity filling is a very common procedure. But depending on the level of tooth decay, it’s still somewhat invasive. Even before your filling, any discomfort from a cavity is typically related to exposed nerves.

There are a couple of reasons you may experience pain or sensitivity in a tooth after a filling:

• Impacted nerves and inflammation: You may be sensitive to hot or cold temperatures and have a sensitive bite after a filling. This typically will resolve itself in a few days or weeks.
• Changes to your bite: Your dentist will do their best to restore your tooth to its original shape, but even minor changes to your bite can cause some sensitivity when you bite.

Your dentist should be able to provide you with some solutions for managing the discomfort following your filling, including taking over-the-counter pain medication, avoiding certain foods, and avoiding irritation.

Some sensitivity post-filling due to the above reasons is normal. However, you should not be experiencing severe pain.

When should you be concerned about tooth pain after a filling?

While most fillings do not result in long-term issues, extreme pain or pain for prolonged periods should be diagnosed immediately. This can be a sign of a bigger issue. 

Fortunately, even if you’re experiencing longer-term pain, there are treatments, like root canals which can help get you back to being pain-free.

As a general rule of thumb, if your pain is interfering with your daily activities like eating or working, you should have it looked at. If you’re not sure if the discomfort or pain you’re experiencing is a cause for concern, it’s best to visit your dentist.

Cavity treatments at Parthenia Family Dental

Whether you’re experiencing pain post-filling or think you may have a cavity, Parthenia Family Dental can help! Tooth decay can leave you with long-term issues and should be treated as soon as possible. We can provide consultations and education to make sure that you get the treatment you need. 

With state-of-the-art facilities and emergency dental services, our team of dental experts are here to help you achieve the smile you deserve.

The post Are You Experiencing Tooth Pain After a Filling? appeared first on Panorama City Dentist.

Let us explore why this is so important.

1. Avoid gum disease

It is important to take gum care seriously to avoid gum disease, a common dental issue that causes inflammation and infection of the gums, resulting in various symptoms and potential dental problems. It is simpler to prevent gum disease than it is to treat it once it has developed, as it can affect your overall health. You can help protect yourself from gum disease and other dental issues by following good oral hygiene habits, eating a nutritious diet, and scheduling regular exams and visits with a dentist.

2. Avoid other serious health conditions

Additionally, the bacteria responsible for gum disease can get into your bloodstream and elevate the chances of heart disease, stroke, and other health issues. Taking proper care of your gums can assist in blocking these dangerous bacteria from entering your bloodstream, thus helping to maintain overall health and well-being.

3. Avoid bad breath

Bad breath is embarrassing and affects one’s confidence. To prevent this condition, it is essential to take gum care seriously. Bacterial buildup and inflammation due to inadequate gum care cause bad breath, as well as the release of foul-smelling gasses. Good oral hygiene is key for removing bacteria: Brush and flossing regularly can help remove food particles and bacteria that contribute to halitosis (bad breath).

Moreover, brushing and flossing can help eliminate plaque and tartar buildup that can cause bad breath. Healthy gums promote fresh breath by providing a seal around the teeth that keeps harmful bacteria from accumulating, as well as preventing food particles from getting stuck between teeth.

So, how can you take better care of your gums?

Regular dental visits are key to good gum health. Your dentist can detect early signs of gum disease and give the right treatment before it worsens. They can also suggest suitable products to keep your gums healthy. Brushing twice daily, daily flossing, and rinsing with an antiseptic mouthwash can help eliminate plaque and bacteria. Quitting tobacco, cutting down on sugar, and eating a balanced diet can also improve gum care.

Brush, floss, and visit your dentist regularly for healthy gums and a radiant smile. At Parthenia Family Dental, we believe in providing exceptional dental care for your entire family. Contact us today to schedule your appointment and take the first step towards better gum care.

The post Why Is It Important to Take Gum Care Seriously? appeared first on Panorama City Dentist.

1. Tooth Decay

Tooth decay is a widespread dental issue that causes pain and distress. Bacteria in the mouth produce acids that corrode the enamel, leading to cavities. If left untreated, these cavities can become bigger and deeper, resulting in increased pain and suffering.

2. Gum Disease

Gum disease is an infection of the gums and tissues that support the teeth, caused by plaque and tartar buildup. In its early stage, known as gingivitis, symptoms may include redness, swelling, and bleeding of the gums when brushing or flossing. If not treated, it can progress to periodontitis, which can result in bad breath, receding gums, loose teeth, and pus between the teeth and gums, causing further pain and discomfort.

3. Tooth Sensitivity

Tooth sensitivity is characterized by a sudden, sharp pain when teeth are exposed to hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods and beverages. This is due to the protective enamel on the tooth’s surface wearing away, exposing the dentin, which contains tiny tubes that lead to the nerves in the tooth. Possible causes of this sensitivity include brushing too hard or using a hard-bristled toothbrush; receding gums, which can expose the tooth roots, grinding or clenching of teeth (bruxism); and some teeth whitening treatments, which may cause temporary sensitivity but usually subside after treatment.

4. Impacted Teeth

Impacted teeth are those that have not emerged properly into their designated place in the mouth, or when a tooth fails to break through the gumline. This can lead to pain, swelling, and infection if left untreated. Additionally, it can be caused by insufficient space in the jaw for the teeth to grow correctly or when they grow at an angle. The most common type of impacted teeth are wisdom teeth, which usually appear during the late teenage years or early twenties.

When impacted, they can induce pain, swelling, redness, and trouble opening the mouth due to pushing against adjoining teeth and tissue, resulting in inflammation and infection. Furthermore, impacted wisdom teeth may cause other dental issues like gum disease, tooth decay, and infections as it is hard to clean the adjacent teeth and gums due to the buildup of plaque and bacteria.

5. Trauma

Trauma to the teeth or jaw can cause pain and discomfort, the extent of which depends on the type and severity of the trauma. In some cases, it may even lead to tooth loss. Common types of dental trauma include fractured or chipped teeth, dislodged teeth, jaw injuries and injuries to the soft tissues of the mouth such as the tongue, lips or cheeks.

Don’t wait if you’re having trouble with your teeth or any other dental issues – reach out to Parthenia Family Dental. Our experienced dentists can identify the source of your pain and deliver the right treatment.

The post My Tooth Hurts: 5 Possible Reasons appeared first on Panorama City Dentist.

Brushing or Flossing Habits can Affect the Risk of Missing Teeth

The primary reason for missing teeth is simply inadequate brushing and flossing. That’s not surprising because few people grew up knowing that cavities were not the worst result of not being thorough. Periodontal (gum) disease is and is caused by bacterial film that develops around food particles that have not been cleaned off. This eventually causes the gums to pull away their support from the teeth. A quarter of all Americans over 74 have lost all their teeth largely as a consequence.

Dental Implants can Effectively Replace Lost Teeth

The ideal replacement for a lost tooth is a dental implant and Parthenia Family Dental uses the best: a biocompatible titanium screw that anchors a porcelain crown (the visible part of a tooth) into the jaw. This is actually stronger than a natural tooth and prevents the misalignment of the bite that starts when any teeth are missing. Properly cared for, implants can be a permanent solution. 

The key requirements for qualifying to be a candidate for an implant are:

• Over 16 for girls and 18 for boys, since their jaws are still developing and an implant could interfere with normal bone growth.
• Having an adequate amount and density of jawbone. This can be determined by a digital x-ray (which involves minimal radiation) or a CT-Scan. If yours is not sufficiently healthy, you may need a bone graft from a choice of sources.
• Committing to quit or significantly reduce smoking (or chewing tobacco), if you do, since it interferes with the implant fusing with the bone and healing of the socket.
• A commitment to do a better job of brushing (twice a day for a full two minutes) and flossing (after your last snack). You should also have your dental hygienist do a professional cleaning at least twice a year.  

If you believe you would benefit from dental implants, call Parthenia Family Dental today to set an appointment for a full dental exam and discussion about how to best restore your smile.

The post How Do I Know If Dental Implants Are Right for Me? appeared first on Panorama City Dentist.

The Causes of Dry Sockets

Pressure changes within your mouth can dislodge the clot. Pressure changes occur due to suction or excessive breathing. Infections can break down the clot. Not being gentle with the extraction area can remove the clot. Another cause of dry sockets are medications and other substances that reduce the chance of clots forming. 

How To Avoid Dry Sockets

Now that you know the causes, what activities should you avoid to prevent dry sockets? 

Do Not Use Straws for at Least a Week

The suction that occurs when using a straw can easily remove the clot. 

No Strenuous Activities Like Working Out or Running

Exercise involves heaving breathing. Deep inhales and exhales can dislodge the clot, similar to the way suction through a straw can dislodge the clot.

Don’t Smoke or Use Tobacco

Of course, not smoking is always good advice. But it’s especially important when preventing dry sockets. Studies show patients that smoke are three times more likely to experience dry sockets. 

Like using a straw, smoking involves suction that can dislodge the clot. But cigarette smoke and other tobacco products also contain chemicals that can slow your healing and encourage infection. It’s best to use nicotine patches for the first few days after a wisdom tooth extraction.

Use Proper Oral Hygiene

Infections can break down the clot. Keeping your mouth clean is necessary to avoid infection after oral surgery. 

Be Gentle With the Extraction Area

You need to keep your mouth clean, but you can’t brush in the way you usually do. Brushing the extraction site can dislodge the clot. Your dentist will instruct you on how to clean your mouth during the crucial healing days following the extraction.

You also need to avoid using the area for chewing until it has healed. And follow your Panorama City dentist’s instructions regarding the foods to eat while healing. It’s likely they’ll recommend soft foods like yogurt for the first day. 

Avoid Substances That May Prevent Clot Formation

It’s important to discuss any medications you’re taking with your dentist or oral surgeon before wisdom teeth surgery. Medications such as blood thinners make it difficult for the clot to form. Your dentist or oral surgeon will provide instruction on how to handle this issue.

It’s best to avoid non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) such as ibuprofen as they affect clot formation. You also need to avoid alcohol since it makes it more difficult for the clot to form. 

By taking it easy and using these tips to prevent dry sockets, you should have a relatively pain-free recovery after a wisdom tooth extraction.

The post Preventing Dry Sockets After a Wisdom Tooth Extraction appeared first on Panorama City Dentist.

Before discussing the signs of when you may need a root canal, it’s important to know what a root canal is. While the outer layers of teeth are hard, the core is a soft tissue with blood vessels and nerves. This soft tissue is called pulp. It’s when bacteria infects the pulp that root canals are necessary. Without the root canal, the infection can spread. 

Your dentist may perform the root canal. But in the most severe cases, they may refer you to an endodontist for the root canal treatment. Endodontists are dentists specializing in issues affecting the pulp of your teeth. 

The American Association of Endodontists (AAE) lists the following six signs you may need a root canal:

• Sharp pain while chewing
• Pimple on the gum
• Cracked tooth
• Ongoing teeth sensitivity to hot or cold 
• Swollen gums
• Darkened gums

Here, we’ll discuss these symptoms and why they may mean you need a root canal. These can be symptoms of other oral issues, so you’ll need your dentist’s expert diagnosis to know if a root canal is the correct treatment.

Ongoing Pain — Especially While Chewing

The pulp of your teeth contains nerves. An infection inflames this soft tissue, causing painful sensations to radiate out from the affected tooth.

Pimple on the Gum

Infection of the pulp can lead to a puss-filled pocket on the root of the tooth. This can expand into a pimple on the gum.

Cracked or Chipped Tooth

Cracks, chips, or untreated cavities may allow an entry point for bacteria to reach the pulp. When pulp becomes infected, you’ll need a root canal to remove the infection and prevent its spread.

Sensitivity to Hot or Cold Temperatures

Dull pain within a tooth while consuming hot or cold foods and drinks is a sign of nerve damage within the pulp. This is especially true if the sensation remains for a while after you’ve finished consuming the food or beverage. 

Swollen Gums or Darkened Gums

Similar to the way a tooth infection can lead to a pimple on the gums, your immune system’s inflammatory response to the infection can cause gum swelling. Changes in the coloration of the gums may show the infection is spreading into the gums.

If you notice any of these issues, it’s a good idea to contact your dentist today. Waiting will only allow infection to spread. That means more treatments will be necessary. 

The post Notable Signs of When a Root Canal Is Needed appeared first on Panorama City Dentist.

Your teeth can start to shift, the top tooth can drift down, and other teeth can start leaning into the gap. When you don’t have well-aligned teeth, there is a lack of proper stress distribution, which forces the teeth to get over-stressed and overworked.

Not sure if partial dentures are right for you? At Parthenia Family Dental we offer multiple options for those who have missing teeth. Such as getting partial dentures, dental implants, fixed bridges, etc. But, one of the most common questions we get is what makes partial dentures stand out. Here are the perks of partial dentures.

Affordable Up-Front Cost

If you need to replace 3 or more missing teeth, partial dentures are the most cost-effective option. The cost will vary depending on the product you get and the number of teeth gaps you have. For example, cast metal partial dentures are more expensive than plastic.

Quick Adjustment Period

Partial dentures are ideal for individuals who have difficulty adapting to new teeth. In a couple of days to weeks, you should be comfortable enough wearing them.

Good Investment

If you need a more permanent solution, then fixed partial dentures can be a viable choice. They stay in the mouth at all times, so there is no need for you to remove them.

They Are Minimally Invasive

There is no need for a surgical procedure to get partial dentures.

They Keep the Jaw Esthetics & Structure

Partial dentures use arms called clasps that wrap around the tooth to remain in place. They can also be attached to a plastic or metal frame specifically designed to fill the empty area and offer a solid grip. This set of artificial teeth looks natural and helps you chew and talk with ease, improving your overall oral health. These are simple solutions for regaining self-confidence and proper dental function.

Anyone can lose a tooth, but it is up to you to give your teeth the treatment they need. Partial dentures are a budget-friendly solution with a quick adjustment period. They don’t require surgery to use, and they keep your jaw in excellent shape. If you need partial dentures, book an appointment with Parthenia Family Dental today! Our expert team is always at your disposal.

The post The Advantages of Partial Dentures appeared first on Panorama City Dentist.

It is Important to Treat Missing Teeth Promptly

Missing teeth cannot be ignored because the body will no longer send nutrients to the socket and causes the neighboring teeth to lean in to “close the gap.” This not only results in those teeth becoming looser, but sets up a chain reaction of misalignment that can lead to more teeth falling out or needing to be extracted.

The good news is that dental implants, especially those made of titanium as at Parthenia Family Dental, can actually provide a stronger and healthier mouth than real teeth. Teeth are vulnerable to the bacteria that thrive on any food particles and produce acids that eat at the hard surface enamel, causing cavities. They also infect the gums, with periodontal disease leading to the loss of more teeth.

Titanium is the go-to material for medical procedures because it can bind to bones  without complications and is the strongest metal known. Our implants consist of a titanium implant screw which is embedded into the jaw and allowed to integrate for a few months, replacing the root of the tooth. It is then attached by a titanium abutment to what looks like a real tooth, made of dental porcelain (which is vulnerable to chewing and grinding, but does not decay).

Dental Implants are Durable

This implant is solid and does not move, while teeth are always a bit wobbly because of the ligaments and roots attached to the gums. 

The process of doing an implant often needs to start with a bone graft where there has been a loss of jawbone, which also needs a few months to heal, but once the implant process is completed it can last 25 years, provided dental hygiene has been good.

Not everyone can qualify for dental implants, such as smokers, those suffering from diabetes, and those with severe osteoporosis. Call Parthenia Family Dental today to make an appointment for a full dental exam and discuss what your best options are for missing teeth.

The post Comparing Dental Implants to Natural Teeth appeared first on Panorama City Dentist.

Dental implants can replace or work alongside both full and partial dentures. You can use a combination of both until you achieve the results you’re looking for.

How Dental Implants Can Replace Full Dentures

Full dentures are only necessary if you are missing entire rows of teeth. They are relatively easy to manufacture and convenient, since you can slip them in and out as needed. They are also much less costly than a full set of dental implants.

Nevertheless, the greatest advantage of implants is that they keep your jawbone healthy and strong. The human jawbone is strengthened by the constant pressure of teeth pushing on it. When teeth are missing, that section of the jawbone starts to atrophy, which actually changes the shape of your face.

With a bone graft and dental implants provided by a Panorama City dentist, we can reverse that deterioration. The major factors to consider are cost and time. It is even possible to place only a few implants and craft partial dentures to fit around them.

How Dental Implants Can Complement Partial Dentures

Dental implants and partial dentures can function alongside each other. If you’re missing one tooth on each side of your mouth, it’s even possible to replace one with a dental implant and the other with a bridge, depending on your preferences.

We usually recommend the placement of implants rather than dentures since implants are a long-term oral health solution that keeps your jawbone strong. Nevertheless, if you prefer partial dentures, we can honor this request as well.

Dentures and dental implants can complement each other. There is no reason why you can’t have both at the same time. If you already have dentures, switching to dental implants can improve your oral health even more. To discuss your options for missing teeth, contact Parthenia Family Dental.

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