Category

General Dentistry

Aug 31 2018
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Dental Exams and Cleanings Blog

The Importance of Keeping Your Dental Exams and Periodic Cleanings

By | General Dentistry, Oral Hygiene

Many adults balk at the idea of visiting the dentist when they aren’t having any problems with their teeth. They assume that visiting the dentist just to receive a clean bill of health is just a waste of money.

But, in fact, keeping your regular dental check-ups and cleanings can actually save you money in the long-run by making sure small problems don’t turn into expensive ones.

Keeping Your Exams Saves Your Money in the Long Run

If you don’t keep up with your oral health cleanings and exams, costly dental problems might occur.

Maintaining good oral health is also an important part of keeping your whole body healthy. While daily brushing and flossing is essential for a healthy mouth, regular check-ups and cleanings are also very important. Good oral health is also linked to good overall health.

When to Get a Checkup

For most adults, it is recommended they get a dental checkup and cleaning every six months. However, depending on your individual needs and personal dental history, your dentist may recommend more frequent visits.

What Happens During an Exam

During a typical dental exam, patients go through two important preventative treatment processes: cleaning and evaluation. Exams often begin with a deep clean performed by a dental hygienist. These are dental professionals who have been trained to use special equipment and techniques to remove the tartar and plaque that daily brushing and flossing might miss.

Once your teeth have been cleaned and polished, the dentist will come in to evaluate your neck, throat, tongue, teeth, and gums for any signs of damage, disease, or decay. X-rays may also be taken. If any troubled spots are found, your dentist will recommend a treatment plan and subsequent visits will be scheduled.

Even though the American Dental Association has invested millions of dollars in educating the public on the importance of maintaining good oral health, 50% of Americans do not visit their dentist regularly. This is a disturbing statistic considering that nearly the same percentage of adults have some level of gum disease and nearly three-quarters of adults are estimated to have at least one cavity.

By regularly monitoring your oral health and keeping up on necessary preventative care, dental disease and decay is less likely to occur. If a problem is found during your regular check-up, it is often easier to fix because it was spotted quickly. As a result, the need for expensive intervention and treatment is virtually eliminated, and any threat to your overall health has been removed. When it comes to keeping your dental exams and periodic cleanings, remember the old saying: “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.”

If you haven’t been in the office in a while, we’d love to see you. Contact Manhattan Dental Care today to schedule your consultation.

Sep 05 2017
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Preventive Treatments from a Manhattan Beach General Dentist

By | Family Dentist, General Dentistry

The dental needs of your entire family are very important when selecting the right dentist. A dental professional who offers services to family members of all ages is really the best option. You can enjoy the benefits of one-stop convenience for yourself and your children at the Manhattan Beach general dentist office while ensuring that everyone’s oral health is being monitored regularly.

How Prevention Helps

The simple truth is that the key to optimum oral health is prevention. The types of services that family dentistry includes are those that address prevention as the first step in dental care. These include regular cleanings, sealants, fluoride treatments, routine x-rays and other basic dental work. The American Dental Association suggests at least twice-yearly visits to your family dentist for checkups.

Semi-Annual Dental Visits

During your semi-annual visits with the Manhattan Beach general dentist, you will receive a routine oral examination including an oral cancer screening and a professional dental cleaning. The professional cleaning is important in order to get rid of stains and plaque buildup, which in turn prevents tooth decay and gum problems. Your dental team will provide recommendations for proper at-home brushing, flossing and rinsing in order to help reduce the buildup of plaque between regular appointments.

Benefits of Visiting a Family Dentist

An important benefit of seeing a family dentist is that they can effectively monitor the oral health of your family from early childhood into adulthood. This establishes an important ongoing relationship with your family. Young children need to be introduced to dental care in a welcoming and comforting setting to develop a trusting relationship with dentists that will last into adulthood.

It is especially important to schedule regular appointments for checkups so that problems can be identified as early as possible before more extensive and costly dental work becomes necessary. Take the stress out of making and keeping your regularly scheduled appointments by selecting a family dentist who can see to all your oral health needs.

Aug 08 2017
0
Wisdom Teeth

Why Back-to-School Dental Exams Are Important

By | General Dentistry, Oral Hygiene

It’s that time again where moms and dads everywhere are making plans for the first day of school. You have supplies, backpacks, plenty of healthy lunchtime snacks – but did you remember to schedule your child’s back-to-school dental exam by the Manhattan Beach general dentist?

How Poor Oral Health Affects Kids

Dental decay (caries) are the most common childhood illness, and research shows that 23% of children have untreated cavities. Your child deserves to get the most out of every moment of their school day. Their focus should be on learning and socializing, and not getting sidelined from the fun with a toothache.

Untreated caries put children’s future oral health at risk but the problems do not stop there. Dental problems can also have a dramatic effect on your child’s quality of life:

  • Difficulty chewing and getting the nutrition they need
  • Poor concentration because of tooth pain
  • Reduced academic achievement
  • Problems speaking clearly
  • Missed time from play and athletic activities
  • Poor self-esteem

Prevention for a Healthy Smile

When kids are young, we have an opportunity to start your child with good oral health practices that last a lifetime. As a dentist, Dr. Erick Guttierez does his part by encouraging routine dental exams and checkups and correcting problems as they occur. As parents, your job is to make sure your kids are brushing properly and eating a healthy diet.

If you haven’t yet scheduled a back-to-school dental exam for your child, please call the Manhattan Beach general dentist to arrange an appointment. It is far easier to ensure that your children enjoy excellent oral health than it is to deal with more painful, costly, and complicated dental conditions in the future. Please call our office and we will be happy to arrange an appointment at your convenience.

May 30 2017
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Root Canal Q&A

By | General Dentistry, root canal

Root canal therapy is no more complicated than most other dental procedures such as fillings or crowns. Unfortunately, though, the process has developed a reputation for being difficult and uncomfortable.

If the Manhattan Beach general dentist recommends a root canal, don’t let misinformation about the procedure keep you from seeking a root canal. We offer gentle treatment from a caring team, and if you need a little help with relaxing, we also provide calming sedation options as well.

Why Do I Need a Root Canal?

Root canal therapy is used to remove the infection or extensive decay from the interior of the tooth. The space inside the tooth where the pulp and main nerves are located is called the root canal.

If you already have an infection in the root of your tooth, delaying a root canal can allow the infection to spread to your jawbone or nearby teeth. If the tooth continues to decay, there will not be enough hard tissue left for a successful root canal, and we will probably need to remove the tooth.

How Does the Procedure Work?

The root canal procedure includes removal of the infected, decayed or damaged pulp, as well as the nerve of the tooth. The dentist then sterilizes the space and uses medication to speed healing. We then place a crown over the tooth for protection and stability.

How Do Root Canals Help My Oral Health?

Root canal therapy allows the structure of the tooth to remain intact, even though we removed the nerve. Although the tooth no longer contains nerve tissue, it is still usable for chewing. Also, because the tooth is left intact, it maintains its proper position, helping to preserve proper spacing between remaining teeth and keeping your bite alignment correct.

Please Call Our Office to Learn More

If you suspect you need a root canal or have a question that’s not answered here, please contact the Manhattan Beach general dentist for additional information or if you have any questions about root canals and how they can help save a damaged tooth.

Apr 04 2017
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Oral Cancer Awareness

By | General Dentistry

April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month and is designed to make people aware of the seriousness of the disease and the need for routine screenings by the Manhattan Beach general dentist.

While oral cancer makes up only a small portion of annual cancer cases, it is still a serious problem. Oral cancer cases that are diagnosed in the early stages of development have a significantly improved survival rate — up to 80% after five years

Risk Factors for Oral Cancer

The following risk factors can’t be changed, but the Manhattan Beach general dentist knows that awareness raises your vigilance so potential problems can be addressed early when treatment options and positive outcomes are greatest.

Aging – More than 90% of all oral cancers occur in individuals over 40. However, the incidence among younger people has been on the uptick recently, perhaps related to lifestyle behaviors.
Race – African-Americans have a higher incidence of oral cancer than Caucasians.

The following are risk factors that you can and should address:

Alcohol – Moderate to heavy drinkers are at three to nine times higher risk; the higher the alcohol content, the greater the risk
Diet – A high intake of fruits/vegetables, which are high in antioxidants, has been found to have a protective effect against a variety of cancers, including oral.
Chronic sun exposure – Often connected with lip cancers.

As part of your routine oral hygiene, you should carefully monitor any changes in your mouth that don’t diminish in a few days, e.g., ulcers, sores, or white or red patches on the tongue. We care about your overall wellness, so our dentist always performs an oral cancer screening as part of your regular check-ups.

Please Contact Us for More Information

We want to do everything possible to keep your oral health and your general health on track. Please contact our office to arrange your next exam, including an oral cancer screening by our dentist.

Mar 07 2017
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Tips for Finding the Right Dentist

By | General Dentistry

In the past, it didn’t matter too much which dentist you chose. Now there are so many new options for services that finding a dentist who can handle all your needs may be a challenge.

At our Manhattan Beach dentist office, we pride ourselves on providing our patients with a wide array of services to fit the needs of just about any patient. But we understand that choosing a dentist is a personal thing. After all, you don’t want just anyone poking around in your mouth!

Care and Compassion is Important

A dentist may be highly trained and educated, but great dentistry is not just about training. Being a compassionate and understanding dentist develops through years of practice, hours of continuing education, and the ability to listen and respond to your needs. You have a right to expect nothing less!

Don’t Be Afraid to Ask Questions

Don’t hesitate to ask questions! While dentists are highly-trained professionals, you have a right to know what to expect if you sign on as a patient. If you feel that the dentist is not being communicative or accommodating about answering your questions, you should probably keep looking!

One of the first things you should look at is the extent of practical experience the dentist has.

  • What are other patients saying about his or her treatment approach?
  • What kind of results did he or she achieve with a procedure similar to yours?
  • Can you be sure that you’ll get the same positive experience?

Many people overlook these questions, and although all dentists were rookies at one time, you’ll feel a lot more comfortable trusting your oral health to a professional like the Manhattan Beach dentist who has many years of experience and an impeccable track record with patient care.

Call Us for a Consultation

Now that you know the qualities to look for, you have the information you need to choose a dentist who meets your needs and can help you achieve a smile that is both healthy and beautiful! We are always happy to answer your questions, so please don’t hesitate to call us for more information!

Feb 21 2017
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National Children’s Dental Health Month

By | General Dentistry

February’s here, and it’s time again for the American Dental Association’s annual National Children’s Dental Health Month. This month-long event was established to raise awareness about the importance of looking after children’s oral health.

The Manhattan Beach general dentist stresses the importance of getting your child’s oral health off to a good start with regular exams and other preventive services. The most common question among parents is about the timing for their child’s first dental visit. We recommend that your child’s first exam takes place when the first baby tooth appears, but no later than age one.

Take the Steps to Stop Decay Before it Starts

Prevention is an essential part of any dental treatment plan, especially for young children. The sooner we see your child, the better chance we have to detect potential problems. Protecting your child’s baby teeth is critical, because problems with the baby teeth at this stage can impact the development of your child’s permanent teeth.

Once your child reaches the age of two or three, they most likely have all their baby teeth. This is the ideal time to schedule regular exams with the Manhattan Beach general dentist and discuss preventive treatments like fluoride and sealants.

These preventive treatments are necessary, because the premature loss of a baby tooth can change the way the permanent teeth develop, potentially leading to crowding, misalignment, and the need for orthodontics.

Please Contact Us for Your Child’s Appointment

Establishing a routine of dental care when your child is young sets the stage for great oral health throughout their lives. Positive experiences with a caring family dentist at an early age are the key to keeping them on the road to a lifetime of excellent oral health. Please contact us, and we will be happy to schedule a convenient appointment for your child’s dental exam.

Dec 27 2016
0

Family Dentistry for All Ages

By | Family Dentist, General Dentistry

When looking for a new dentist, it is important to take into account dental needs of your entire family. The dental professional who offers age-appropriate services for your family is the best choice. You can enjoy the benefits of one-stop convenience for you and your children at the Manhattan Beach, CA dentist office, while ensuring that everyone’s oral health is being monitored regularly.

We Start With Prevention

The simple truth is that the key to optimum oral health is prevention. The types of services that family dentistry includes are those that address prevention as the first step in dental care. These include regular cleanings, sealants, fluoride treatments, routine x-rays and other basic dental work. The American Dental Association suggests at least twice-yearly visits to your family dentist for checkups.

During your semi-annual visits to the Manhattan Beach, CA dentist, you will receive a routine oral examination, including oral cancer screening, and a professional cleaning. The professional cleaning is important in order to get rid of stains and plaque buildup, which in turn prevents tooth decay and gum problems. Your dental team will provide recommendations for proper at-home brushing, flossing and rinsing in order to help reduce the buildup of plaque between regular appointments.

Ongoing Dental Care

An important benefit of seeing a family dentist is that they can effectively monitor the oral health of your family from childhood into adulthood. This establishes an important ongoing relationship with your family. Young children need to be introduced to dental care in a welcoming and comforting setting to develop a trusting relationship with dentists that will last into adulthood.

It is especially important to schedule regular appointments for checkups so that problems can be identified as early as possible before more extensive and costly dental work becomes necessary. Take the stress out of making and keeping your regularly scheduled appointments by selecting a family dentist who can see to all your oral health needs.

We would be happy to discuss your family’s dental needs and the ways we can help. Please call our office to make an appointment for your next dental exam.

Nov 29 2016
0

Tips for Finding the Right Dentist for You

By | General Dentistry

Very few people look at dental visits as a pleasant experience. Maybe the bad press surrounding procedures like root canals affects your feelings about dentistry. Or maybe you’ve had a bad experience with a dentist who just didn’t seem to care much about your comfort.

If you are looking for a Manhattan Beach family dentist and aren’t quite know where to start, here are a few of qualities to look for before you choose a dentist.

Even though a dental professional may be highly trained and educated, it’s important to remember that great dentistry is not just about training. A compassionate and understanding dentist develops a unique “bedside” manner based on years of practice, hours of continuing education, and the ability to listen and respond to your needs.

Experience Counts When Choosing a Dentist

One of the first things you should look at is the extent of practical experience the dentist has.

  • What are other patients saying about his or her treatment approach?
  • What kind of results did he or she achieve with a procedure similar to yours?
  • Can you be sure that you’ll get the same positive experience?

Many people overlook these questions, and although all dentists were rookies at one time, you’ll feel a lot more comfortable trusting your oral health to a professional who has years of experience and an impeccable track record with patient care.

You Have a Right to Ask Questions

The Manhattan Beach family dentist offers a wide range of dental treatments for your family’s convenience. This is an important area to explore, because you want to be sure that the treatments are available when you need them.

Don’t hesitate about asking these questions – dentists are highly-trained professionals, but you have a right to know what to expect if you sign on as a patient. If you feel that the dentist is not being communicative or accommodating about answering your questions, you should probably look for another dentist.

Now that you know the qualities to look for, you have the information you need to choose a dentist who meets your needs and can help you achieve a smile that is both healthy and beautiful! We are always happy to answer your questions, so don’t hesitate to call us for more information!

Nov 15 2016
0

General Dentist Suggests Regular Teeth Cleanings

By | General Dentistry

The American Dental Association recommends dental cleanings twice a year for patients with no serious ongoing dental needs. When you visit our Manhattan Beach General Dentist, our dental hygienist will conduct an examination to evaluate and identify signs of inflammation and disease. We will discuss the findings with you to identify underlying issues that could compromise your oral health.

Your Personalized Treatment Plan

A plan for treatment will then be developed based on your dental needs. Keep in mind that every patient is unique with their own specific needs and risk factors for gum disease. As a result, more frequent cleaning and a more intense cleaning regimen may be established for at-home oral hygiene.

Staying a Step Ahead of Gum Disease

During a routine cleaning, your hygienist or dentist will remove plaque and tartar buildup above and below the gum line. If plaque and tartar debris are allowed to build up and remain around and below the gum line, it may lead to gum disease or periodontitis. Periodontitis is more advanced than gum disease, or inflammation of the soft tissues.

Periodontal disease is caused by the overgrowth and accumulation of dental plaque, which causes disintegration of the bone around the teeth, forming pockets between your teeth and under your gums. These pockets become infected and will continue to deepen, causing the underlying bone structure to gradually disintegrate. Ultimately your teeth become loose, putting you at great risk of losing teeth.

Schedule Regular Dental Visits

General dentistry and a routine of regular visits to our Manhattan Beach General Dentist office or cleanings can help prevent periodontitis through the removal of soft plaque and hard calculus (tartar) during a cleaning.

Over time, the cumulative staining effect of certain beverages and foods can cause your teeth to become discolored. Routine dental cleanings also include polishing of your teeth, improving the appearance of your smile by reducing surface staining.

Please Contact Our Office to Arrange an Appointment

If it’s time for your next dental cleaning and exam, please call our office to arrange your next appointment.