Thursday, December 25, 2008
$1.50 for a Cavity?? - Dr. Ray Partovy
Every time you chow down on that chocolate bar the bacteria in your mouth have a party feasting on the sugar. The sugar quickly turns into acid; that’s right, ACID!!! The acid sits on your teeth and eats away at the tooth’s natural enamel (the stuff that protects your tooth from decay). When this enamel is eaten away by the acid on your tooth, you get a cavity! Brushing your teeth after eating a sugary treat can help prevent cavities; but before you indulge remind yourself: “can’t brush? Hold the sugar!”
When choosing a snack, consider these nutritional options that will not only satisfy your hunger and that “sweet tooth”, but won’t cause acid build up resulting in cavities:
• Fresh Fruits (berries, oranges, melon, pears, etc)
• Raw Vegetables (broccoli, celery, carrots, etc)
• Bread
• Pretzels (low salt)
• Milk (low or non-fat)
• Cheese (low or non-fat)
• Nuts and seeds (pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, etc)
• Sliced meat
Thursday, December 18, 2008
When Is Thumb-Sucking a Cause for Worry? - Dr. Ray Partovy
In most cases, no. Sucking is a natural reflex for an infant, and can provide security and contentment as well as relaxation for your little one. It’s a habit that most children grow out of between the ages of 2 and 4.
However, if your child keeps sucking after he’s gotten his permanent teeth, it’s time to take a closer look. If your child sucks his thumb aggressively, putting pressure on the inside of his mouth or his teeth, it could cause problems with tooth alignment and proper mouth growth. If you’re worried, give us a call and we will help assess the situation, and provide tips for how to help your child break the habit.
Thursday, December 11, 2008
Chewing Gum
This being said, gum does not have any dietary benefits, so while it’s not harmful to swallow, you still want to avoid swallowing it. If you are a gum-chewer, make sure you chew sugarless gum, because gum with sugar can lead to cavities. Sugarless gum still has the same amount of flavor, but with less cavity causing ingredients. You see, when the bacterium in your mouth breaks down sugar, what’s left behind is acid. This acid eats away at the enamel coating of your teeth, causing holes that we call cavities. Cavities can lead to other long term mouth problems if they are not treated in time, so it is best to try and avoid overexposing your teeth to too many harmful substances!
Happy (sugar-free) gum chewing!
Thursday, December 4, 2008
Are There Teeth Grinders in Your House?
• Sensitivity in the teeth
• Tightness or pain in the jaw
• Dull headaches, earaches, or facial pain
• Chipped, worn down, or loose teeth
People frequently grind their teeth in response to stress, so taking measures to reduce or eliminate stress can help solve the problem. Here are some things you can try to stop grinding:
• Cut back on caffeine and alcohol
• Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration
• Relax right before bedtime with a warm bath or shower
• Help your jaw learn to relax by quitting any chewing habits (pens, pencils, gum)
• When clenching or grinding happens during the day, place your tongue between your teeth to serve as a reminder to avoid the habit
If grinding goes untreated, it can lead to chipped teeth, worn enamel, chronic pain, or even TMJ, a painful jaw disorder. If the teeth-grinder in your house can’t stop, make an appointment to see us by calling (310) 776-9537 (Marina del Rey) or (818) 921-3447 (Tarzana). Dr. Partovy can help determine the cause of the problem and possibly even prescribe a custom mouthpiece to help break the habit.
Thursday, November 20, 2008
Gum Disease Can Sneak Up on You
Signs to watch for:
• Gums that appear red or swollen
• Gums that feel tender
• Gums that bleed easily (during brushing or flossing)
• Gums that recede or pull away from the teeth
• Persistent bad breath
• Loose teeth
• Any change in the way teeth come together in the biting position
• Any change in the way partial dentures fit
If you or someone in your family is showing these signs, make an appointment right away by calling 310-776-9537. We can diagnose the problem and begin treatment to save your teeth and give you back a healthy mouth!
Thursday, November 13, 2008
Smoke Screen
It’s true! Smoking is responsible for almost 75% of gum disease in adults; and, similar to smokers, adults who smoke pipes and cigars, as well as those using smokeless tobacco, are just as susceptible to gum disease and other tobacco related health problems.
As soon as you use tobacco products, you become more likely to experience any of these oral-health problems:
• Oral cancer
• Gum disease
• Tooth loss
• Loss of bone in the jaw
• Gum recession
• Delayed/impaired healing process after oral surgery or any other treatment
• Decreased success rate of dental implant (tooth replacement) procedures
• Mouth sores
• Loss of your sense of taste and smell
• Bad breath
• Tooth and tongue stains
If you are interested in protecting your oral health we strongly recommend you quit using tobacco products! The following steps are recommended by the Surgeon General to help you quit smoking and using tobacco:
• Get ready – set a quitting date and remove all materials from your home, car and office
• Get support
• Learn new skills and behaviors
• Get medication and use it correctly
• Be prepared for relapse or difficult situations
For support, start at Dr. Partovy's office! We can help by recommending different options to help you quit, and above all we will support you throughout the quitting process. We are dedicated to helping you protect your oral health – and quitting smoking is significant step in the right direction.
Thursday, November 6, 2008
Moooooooove Over Gum Disease!
Gum disease is caused by a bacterial infection in the mouth that affects the gums and jaw. Gum disease results in a loss of teeth and bone, and has been connected to certain cases of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, respiratory disease and osteoporosis.
Results of the study show that adults who consume at least 55 grams of lactic acid a day are less at risk for gum disease. Eating dairy is not just healthy for building strong bones, but is essential for maintaining a strong, healthy mouth. Next time you reach for a quick snack, choose some cheese, or a glass of milk, and remember with each bite, and every sip you are preserving your teeth for a lifetime of smiles and good oral health!
For more information about keeping your teeth healthy, call us at 310-776-9537 or visit www.makingusmile.com.
Thursday, October 30, 2008
Regular Checkups Are Important!
• Check for problems that might not be seen or felt
• Detect cavities and early signs of decay
• Treat oral health problems early
• Show your child how to properly brush and floss their teeth
During an oral exam the doctor will check the health of your child’s mouth, teeth, gums, cheeks and tongue. Checkups will also include a thorough teeth cleaning and polishing. If your child has not been to the dentist in the last six months, it’s time for you to schedule an appointment!
Thursday, October 23, 2008
Toothbrush Trivia!
The first toothbrush with bristles – similar to today’s toothbrushes – was invented in 1498 in China. Brushes were made out of bone or bamboo with bristles made from the hairs on the back of a hog’s neck.
It wasn’t until 1938 that the first nylon bristle toothbrush was introduced and people quickly became aware of practicing good oral hygiene.
Here are some other interesting facts about your toothbrush (and toothpaste):
• Most people are said to use blue toothbrushes over any other color
• The first toothpaste was used in 500 BC in China and India
• On average, children smile about 400 times per day
• Your toothbrush should be replaced every two months
• The first known toothpaste was used in 1780, Crest was introduced in the US in 1955 and Colgate in 1873
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
Is Invisalign® Really Customized for Each Patient?
Next we use special software to map out the exact path your teeth will take from the beginning of your treatment to the end. Based on the results, a set of custom aligners are created just for your teeth. Throughout the course of treatment, you will be required to wear these clear, removable aligners one at a time; each one moving your teeth closer and closer to their final, perfectly aligned position. And since the aligners are virtually invisible, nobody around you will even know you are wearing braces!
Dr. Partovy is a certified Invisalign provider. If you have questions about Invisalign, or would like to find out if you are a candidate for Invisalign treatment, give us a call at 310-776-9537.
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
Zoom!® Whitening
While Zoom!® Smile Whitening is a great way to enhance the appearance of your smile, it's not always for everyone. Those with deep, dark stains that remain unaffected by whitening treatments and patients with regular tooth sensitivity may not be good candidates. Find out more about Zoom!® Smile Whitening at our web site; and when you are ready to have a whiter, brighter smile contact Dr. Partovy for an evaluation!
Monday, September 29, 2008
Inlays & Onlays
Inlays & Onlays
Inlays or onlays are lab made restorations that are placed on teeth when the cavity or lost tooth structure is too large to be restored by a simple filling. The process of making an Inlay is very similar to a crown. After the tooth is prepared it is cemented or bonded to the tooth
There are different materials that inlays are made of, gold, porcelain and composite resins are among them. Porcelain and composite inlays and onlays are cosmetic alternatives to fillings and are very strong compared to regular white fillings. Gold inlays and onlays are also good alternatives but their appearance has made them less popular.
Your dentist will explain to you when an inlay or onlay is a good treatment option for you. In general, inlays and onlays can replace most of back teeth fillings and provide a better alternative to conventional filling. At the same time they are more conservative than crowns.
As far as the cost is concerned, because the process of making an inlay or onlay is similar to a crown, its cost is also comparable. When long-term longevity of inlays and onlays are considered,
Monday, September 22, 2008
Teeth Sealants
Teeth Sealants
Sealants are thin layers of resin that are placed on the pits and fissures and grooves of (usually) molars to prevent decay on these surfaces
Majority of decays on back teeth starts on grooves and pits of chewing surfaces, especially during the first few years after their eruption. Sealing these surfaces with composite resins prevents these kinds of decay.
Sealants are one of the most effective methods of preventing decays on the surfaces where they are places. Although it is still a possibility that decay may happen on surfaces in between the teeth, sealants significantly reduce the overall chance of having cavities.
Monday, September 15, 2008
More on TMJ (Temporo-Mandibular Joint)
TMJ
TMJ is the joint that connects the lower and upper jaw (skull). The terms TMJ stands for Temporo-Mandibular Joint. This is one the most complicated joints of the whole body. One that allows forward and backward moves as well as rotations and side to side movements.
TMJ is the joint that connects the lower and upper jaw (skull). The terms TMJ stands for Temporo-Mandibular Joint. This is one the most complicated joints of the whole body. One that allows forward and backward moves as well as rotations and side to side movements.
TMJ is often referred to as the complications and problems with this joint. Some of the most common symptoms of TMJ problems are:
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Pain
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Limitation of movement of the lower jaw
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Clicking sounds
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Muscle spasm
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Locking of the jaw
Some causes of the disease are genetics, hormones, low-level infections, auto-immune diseases, trauma, and clenching or grinding of the teeth.
Diagnosis of such conditions and evaluation of causes are done by dentists experienced in TMJ problems and treatments. Some common treatments are Night Guards, Bite Guards and Bite Adjustments. Your dentist will be able to guide you toward the best treatment for you.
If you experience any TMJ problem or symptoms please let us know. The doctor will be happy to evaluate your situation and offer the best treatment possible.
Friday, September 12, 2008
Meet our Team!
Our staff is dedicated to patient comfort
Our Team
What separates us from other professional dentists is our extensive experience in cosmetic dentistry which allows us to utilize the latest techniques and materials to enhance the beauty of your smile while insuring the health of your teeth. Whether it's using a tooth-colored filling, whitening discolored or yellowed teeth, correcting worn or cracked teeth with porcelain veneers, or making sure your gums are as healthy as possible, our orientation is to make sure your smile is as beautiful as it is healthy.
Our goal is to always strive for perfection. We are only satisfied when we achieve excellence. We believe it is essential to really listen to the patients and understand their needs and desires. We work to educate all our patients so that they can take an active roll in their treatment; together as a team, we can accomplish the smile they desire. Maintaining their dental health is a commitment that both the patients and we make to each other. As colleagues, we understand and share a very high appreciation for the privilege of serving our patients. We do our very best to always provide the finest of care while maintaining sound ethics and integrity.
Teeth Whitening
Teeth stain during our lifetime due to consumption of a variety of foods and drinks (Coke, spicy food, coffee...) New technology of teeth whitening has enabled dentists to whiten teeth without any change or damage to the tooth structure.
Almost all the whitening methods are similar in concept but some are much more effective because of the way the whitening material is delivered to the teeth. The other factor in effectiveness of the method is the concentration of material, which is the reason why over the counter whitening systems usually don t give patients the result they are hoping for.
The two main methods of professional whitening are tray whitening and in office whitening. Tray whitening is when a custom tray is made for the patient after an impression is taken, then a supply of whitening gel is given to the patient and he/she will wear the tray for a few hours a day (techniques differ) for a period of time until an acceptable result is achieved. Sensitivity of the teeth is a normal complication of this method of whitening and is almost always transitional.
In office whitening on the other hand is the most effective method of whitening. There are a few different ways that are available for example, Britesmile, Zoom, Laser whitening....But in all these methods the process is similar and you can have your teeth whitened in one session with great results. Your dentist can give you more detailed information and tell you which method is more suitable in your case and which one is indicated for your teeth.
Dental Crowns
Dental Crowns
A crown (cap) is a restoration that is placed on teeth that have lost a lot of their structure. There are many different types of crowns, full porcelain, porcelain fused to metal, full metal crowns... Your dentist will explain the advantage and disadvantage of each kind for you.
The process of making a crown includes many steps that start in our office with preparing the teeth and taking impressions from the tooth/teeth involved. Then a temporary crown or bridge is placed on your teeth.
The impressions are sent to the lab. In the lab a mold of the teeth is poured and the work begins.
There are multiple steps and different technicians work on the mold to fabricate a crown or bridge. The completed work is sent back to the office and after necessary checks and adjustments it is cemented onto your teeth.
Monday, July 7, 2008
Electric Brush Versus Manual Brushes
There have been multiple studies comparing the effectiveness of manual brushes as opposed to electric brushes.
Although not all the electric brushes are the same, in conclusion of all these studies it is fair to say that in general electric brushes are more effective in controlling the plaque than manual brushes. Theoretically you could do a very good brushing with a regular hand brush but the movements of an electric brush makes the task easier and more efficient. Also, some electric brushes (Sonicare) have sonic vibration that is difficult to mimic with a hand brush! Other electric brushes like Oral-B and Rotadent have small heads that help you reach hard to reach areas of your mouth. This aspect is more important when you are talking about somebody with orthodontic braces or a history of gum disease.