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Caring for your smile takes more effort than simply ensuring that your teeth are bright and well-aligned. Your gums take on a crucial factor in your dental health, including your overall wellness. Because most people might believe their gums are in good condition, they are usually alarmed if they are told something else. Gum disease, also called periodontal disease, is a harmful condition that affects the gums that surround your teeth. The disease’s signs typically occur without pain. A number of studies have discovered a connection with periodontal disease and various health concerns, like diabetes, cardiovascular disease, strokes, and forms of cancer, including tooth loss.

In spite of this, we have excellent news: Periodontal disease can be avoided with effective dental care. The simplest method to battle periodontal disease is to receive oral care from capable dental professionals, like the team at Dental Express in San Diego, CA. Our doctors have extensive know-how and training in the field of periodontal dentistry to diagnose various issues and manage gum disease.

THE IMPORTANT POINTS YOU MUST KNOW REGARDING PERIODONTAL DISEASE

Often called periodontal disease, gum disease is, in simplest terms, an infection in the gums. Your gumline is the internal tissue that serves to keep your teeth in their ideal placements. Bad dental health may cause a fuzzy-feeling substance known as plaque to attach itself to and calcify along the gum tissue. Although brushing and flossing can reduce a portion of the bacteria, plaque that’s not eliminated will turn into tartar and settle onto your teeth. Only a thorough cleaning provided by a dentist or dental assistant can totally eliminate tartar.

While accumulating on the enamel, tartar and food particles work in tandem to cause a moderate form of gum disease that we call gingivitis. Gingivitis forms when plaque builds up on the enamel and encourages the nearby gums to become inflamed. Bacteria produces toxins that aggravate your gum tissues, making them red and swollen and, usually, causing bleeding.

When gum disease worsens with no management, more damaging phases of periodontal disease will often cause sensitive and bleeding gum tissue, problems chewing, and even missing teeth. That’s why it’s vital to detect and address periodontal disease before it spreads all through your oral structures.

GUM DISEASE SIGNS TO BE AWARE OF

Well cared for gums should be firm, pinkish, and fit tautly around your teeth. The primary indicators of periodontal disease are commonly hard to detect by the average adult. It is important to arrange regular appointments with our dentists at Dental Express in San Diego. Our team will work to detect the tell-tale signals of periodontal disease during biannual cleanings and dental checkups. Signs of affected gums include puffiness, bright red tissue, sensitivity, bleeding, detachment from the tooth, additional spaces between your teeth, halitosis, missing teeth, issues with chewing, and inconsistencies with your dental alignment.

PATIENTS WITH PERIODONTAL DISEASE CAN RECEIVE A NUMBER OF SURGICAL THERAPY OPTIONS

When patients reach the more intense levels of gum disease, they could require surgical treatments. The dental professionals at Dental Express in San Diego, CA provide several surgical gum treatments.

Periodontal disease frequently leads the gums to recede, which will reveal a section of the tooth’s roots. To address your gumline, our dental practitioners may provide a gum graft treatment. Most often, autografted connective tissue is used for this procedure. The grafted sample is taken from the upper part of your mouth and placed with your gumline, which will address the root exposure.

Gum surgery should benefit people in San Diego, CA who have late-stage periodontitis. Based on the degree of your periodontal disease, there are a few techniques we will likely implement: gingival flap surgery, gingivectomy, and gingivoplasty. Gingival flap surgery pulls the gumline away from the teeth to expose the roots and allow our dental practitioner to evaluate your situation. From there, we will carry out a periodontal scaling and root planing treatment to eliminate plaque and excess inflamed tissue. The separated tissue will then be moved and stitched in the proper location. In contrast, a gingivectomy removes and reshapes a portion of the badly diseased gum tissue. This procedure is commonly done for those whose situation is more intense. Lastly, a gingivoplasty is thought of as an aesthetic dental operation that improves and reshapes your gums after your gum disease has been dealt with, returning their proper function and appearing more attractive.

FIGURE OUT HOW YOU CAN EVADE PERIODONTAL DISEASE BY IMPLEMENTING THESE EASY HABITS

The best way to evade periodontal disease is to learn an excellent at-home oral hygiene regimen. Obeying this comprehensive checklist can help guarantee that your shining smile lasts for years to come:

Flossing is important for excellent dental care.
Flossing your teeth at least once every day can help eliminate germs that could be stuck in between your teeth. Cleaning your teeth is a necessary part of everyone’s oral care routine, but it still won’t polish every crevice.

Patients should clean their teeth a minimum of two times every day.
Patients who brush their teeth after meals help to eradicate tartar and bacteria lodged in between their gum tissue and teeth. It’s equally important to not overlook your tongue. Utilize your smooth-bristled brush to scrub your tongue. Doing so will eliminate excess bacteria.

Utilize toothpaste and mouth rinses with fluoride.
People find it hard to figure out which oral care products are the most effective. When browsing, select a fluoride toothpaste and mouthwash. If used in conjunction, the two products can impact the time it takes for food particles and tartar to gather on the enamel.

Be sure you see your dental practitioner twice annually.
Set up one-on-ones with your dental care provider twice each year for an oral health evaluation and cleaning. Oral exams enable the team at Dental Express in San Diego to identify issues like gum disease when they first occur. To help patients with dental fears, our San Diego facilities can implement sedation options to calm your nerves. This way, you can have your evaluations and professional cleanings with ease.

Cease your tobacco product usage.
Adults who consume tobacco products (including chewing, cigarettes, or vaping) are at a higher risk to be diagnosed with gum disease and various cancers. Tobacco consumption negatively impacts your immune system, making it tougher for your body to fight off inflammation and heal afterward.

SHELTER YOUR GUM TISSUE FROM POTENTIAL DANGER AND DETERIORATION

Preventive dental care is needed for the battle against gum disease. Look for a dental professional you trust, and be sure to stop by their office two times a year for checkups and cleanings. At Dental Express in San Diego, our staff is skilled at preventing, detecting, and eliminating periodontal disease and many other oral health disorders. Get in touch with our facility today to arrange a session and begin your journey toward your best dental health.

Common Brushing Mistakes To Avoid:  A person’s smile is many times the initial thing people notice about someone. A healthy smile is often one of your most distinguishing characteristics. We typically see media plugs and advertisements that present picturesque people who have striking white smiles reminding us to brush at least twice every day. Even though you might be doing this, do you really pay attention to how you care for your pearly whites?

You have around 300 – 700 kinds of bacteria residing in your mouth. If you fail to clean your teeth correctly, the bacteria can stick to food particles and debris, which, later on, causes tooth decay and many other oral concerns. If you don’t brush your teeth often, or if you forget to pay attention to your method of brushing, you may elevate your chances of developing tooth decay, gum disease, as well as jaw and gum loss between the teeth.

Proper dental hygiene begins with figuring out the right methods. As intuitive as brushing your teeth sounds – after all, you’ve probably been achieving it since you were very young – very few people take care of their teeth as well as they should to preserve their dental health. Although you may be making errors while you brush and floss, there are things you can do to fix them. To help avoid oral health problems before long-term conditions can arise, patients should arrange a dental appointment with our dentists at Dental Express in San Diego, CA at least one time per year.

If you stop for a minute and think about your tooth brushing techniques, is it likely that you might be making numerous brushing mistakes without even being aware of it? If any of these mistakes sound like you, Dental Express in San Diego, CA can help you learn good dental practices for the long term.

NEGLECTING TO CHANGE OUT YOUR TOOTHBRUSH REGULARLY

Our experienced team of dentists at Dental Express encourages men, women, and children in San Diego, CA to change their toothbrush after 3 – 4 months. Aged and broken toothbrush bristles will do little to keep your teeth healthy. After a while, these bristles lose pliability and aren’t fit to efficiently remove the food particles in your mouth. Additionally, bacteria and plaque can accumulate on your toothbrush after long-time use, which can bring about numerous dental issues. Be careful to remind yourself to change out your toothbrush at least every few months.

TRY NOT TO CLEAN TOO FAST

Taking only one minute to clean your teeth is a big mistake. The average amount of time most patients take brushing their teeth is forty-five seconds; this is just not at all an acceptable length of time. The qualified dentists at Dental Express urge their patients in San Diego, CA to clean their teeth for at least two minutes, two times every day. Any amount below that does not allow the fluoride in the toothpaste enough time to soak into the enamel. To guarantee that you’re devoting a good deal of time to cleaning your teeth, open the stop watch on your smart device each time you brush.

IT’S DETRIMENTAL TO CLEANSE YOUR MOUTH AFTER BRUSHING

Most of us are likely guilty of cleansing our mouths when we are through with brushing. In fact, it is a normal practice for most patients. Nevertheless, it tremendously decreases the efficiency of the fluoride in your toothpaste, as well as its ability to guard your teeth. In place of water, use a mouthwash consisting of fluoride to wash out your mouth when you’re done brushing.

AVOID CLEANING TOO HARD

“Rougher” is in no way beneficial when it comes to cleaning your teeth. A soft technique is the what you need to clean your teeth effectively. Even though you may be under the impression that brushing your teeth harder will remove more of the germs and plaque that lead to cavities and other dental issues, the truth is that brushing roughly will often lead to harm. Extra pressure may in reality cause gum recession. Rather than scrubbing roughly, cleaning your teeth should be similar to a relaxing massage.

LEAVE YOUR TOOTHBRUSH IN THE OPEN TO AIR OUT WHEN YOU’RE DONE BRUSHING

The dental professionals at Dental Express urge their San Diego, CA patients to keep their toothbrushes standing up and let them get plenty of air. If you place a recently used toothbrush in a covered jar, it could gather harmful germs.

TRY NOT TO USE BRISTLES THAT ARE TOO FIRM

Some men and women believe that stiffer toothbrush bristles are ideal for brushing teeth because these are what expel dangerous bacteria and food particles from the teeth. Despite this, stiff bristles are not right when it comes to cleaning your teeth. Firm bristles can wear down the structure of the teeth by removing the protective coating of your enamel. Due to this, you may wind up with heat and cold sensitivity. Heat and cold sensitivity refers to when your teeth feel discomfort if you drink something too hot or cold. Stiff bristles will also eventually deteriorate your gum tissue. Our knowledgeable dentists at Dental Express in San Diego, CA, are always happy to recommend the right products for your dental wellness.

STOP PRACTICING INCORRECT BRUSHING HABITS

Appropriate brushing technique is very important when you are brushing your teeth. To achieve a thorough clean, you need to address numerous places, such as the front, back, top, and bottom surfaces of the teeth. Furthermore, the gum tissue, tongue, and the palate of your mouth should be gently brushed.

YOU SHOULDN’T OVERLOOK THE SIGNIFICANCE OF FLOSSING YOUR TEETH EACH DAY

To maintain your dental health, it’s important to floss every day. Flossing your teeth daily helps to eliminate the tartar in between your teeth, especially in spots where your toothbrush is not able to reach. Tartar that is not cleaned out morphs into solid deposits along your teeth and gumline, which often will result in all sorts of oral issues.

BEGIN LEARNING PROPER TOOTHBRUSHING HABITS NOW

On average, it takes several weeks to get used to improved habits. Making an effort to incorporate one meaningful habit to your brushing technique every week could prove productive in the long run. Utilizing good toothbrushing habits along with biannual visits to Dental Express in San Diego, CA will ensure your future oral health, as well as decrease your chances of needing expensive dental work in the future. Contact our team of exceptional dental professionals at Dental Express. We offer a comprehensive spectrum of general care and restorative treatments for your entire family.

Help Your Oral Health With Skilled Stain Removal Techniques: Many people dream about having a prettier smile. Dentist-performed teeth whitening is a popular corrective dental technique because of its multiple advantages. Store-bought tooth-whitening bundles cannot equal the spectacular after-effects of dental teeth whitening.

Custom Care And Outcomes

Typically, in cosmetic dentistry, a one-size-fits-all system will not work for every patient. The professional staff at Dental Express in San Diego, CA, understand that patients’ goals and needs are extremely varied. Our dental specialists make use of their training and knowledge while inspecting teeth to determine the source of any stains.

Also, the dentist will review previous and future Cosmetic Dentistry San Diego treatments you plan to pursue that might influence your radiant outcome.

For example, it might be wise to wait before receiving new dental crowns and Porcelain Veneers Teeth. This can allow the dentist to design silver dental crowns and veneers that match the tone of your newly lightened, beautiful teeth.

Tooth lightening can be somewhat harder for patients who already have dental restorations. Since whitening treatments cannot eliminate stains on dental restorations, it could be necessary for your dental practitioner to use numerous techniques to make sure that all of your teeth are an even color.

During your consultation, the dentist will determine an individualized whitening process that is most effective for you. She or he should also let you know the amount of whitening rounds needed to achieve your most effective outcomes.

In-office Bleaching Products

At-home teeth whitening tools typically contain a smaller amount of lightening agents compared to lightening systems employed in most professional teeth whitening.

Also, difficult trays and annoying gel may cause inconsistent results and ordinarily only lighten teeth one shade per session. Prior to an in-office teeth whitening session, individuals can pick the color of whiteness they would like to obtain.

At Dental Express in San Diego, CA, our team offers quick and effective in-office teeth whitening using Boost Teeth Whitening.

Boost Teeth Whitening consists of a whitening gel that is administered to each tooth individually. This unique hydrogen peroxide gel is chemically activated by an LED light that whitens the teeth by several shades in just under an hour. We suggest that people who receive in-office whitening procedures have in-office cleanings twice annually. This cleaning will help get rid of additional exterior discoloration and ensure your teeth continue to stay healthy.

Additional Comfort

Every now and then, those who try store-bought teeth whitening for sensitive teeth solutions might experience tooth discomfort after they use them. This could develop when the hydrogen peroxide penetrates the exterior of the teeth or when implementing whitening systems with poorly sized strips and trays irritate the soft oral tissue. The knowledgeable dentists at Dental Express in San Diego, CA take fastidious steps to head off such issues.

In each Boost Teeth Whitening session, patients’ gums and lips are protected to make sure that the whitening ingredients affect just the teeth. Next, the dentist will administer the whitening gel to every single tooth as the LED light activates the gel. Even though the technique is very comfortable for many people, a topical anesthetic can be prepared to decrease any worry or to calm the gag reflex.

Healthier, Accelerated Treatments

Even though pharmacy lightening systems usually do not pose health issues for the majority of people, numerous attempts to lighten and illuminate teeth without instruction from a qualified and professional dentist, such as those at Dental Express in San Diego, CA, might lead to increased tooth pain from sensitivity to heat and cold.

Because it might take multiple weeks or conceivably months to see obvious outcomes with store-bought tooth whitening solutions, for example, gels, strips, and toothpaste, sensitivity could become a concern. Certain types might fail entirely to create a glowing smile. Professional teeth lightening techniques are administered by dental professionals to let patients feel relaxed and ensure that the teeth and gums stay protected during the procedure.

Enduring Results

Over and above the numerous other advantages, the outcomes of in-office teeth lightening techniques stay much longer relative to at-home tooth whitening solutions. At Dental Express in San Diego, CA, after a Boost Teeth Whitening procedure, patients can maintain their results with custom-made trays that are to be used with take-home treatments to use after your in-office teeth whitening session.

At Dental Express in San Diego, CA, our team recommends implementing excellent oral hygiene habits by regularly brushing and flossing any time you have a meal and before sleeping.

Just after your treatment and for approximately 24 hours, we ask patients to avoid eating and drinking any stain-inducing foods, for example, tomato sauce, and drinks, such as dark wines. Anytime it’s possible, use a paper straw for beverages that could potentially dull the teeth.

Enhanced Self-confidence and Outlook

Newly bleached teeth can make more than a pretty smile. Most people have heightened self-confidence following their procedure, which allows them to grow progressively extroverted and function stronger in professional contexts and in other social meetings.

Plus, research regarding the outcomes of tooth whitening has proved that men and women with healthier gums are inclined to have stronger mental ability in comparison to those with chronic periodontitis (gum disease). Bleached teeth may also take years off of your look and help you look more youthful.

Rely On Trained Dental Professionals to Boost Your Smile’s Beauty

The positive results produced by in-office teeth lightening procedures like Boost Teeth Whitening are unparalleled in their abilities to noticeably alter a person’s appearance and simultaneously boost self-assuredness. We urge you to contact Dental Express and request an appointment with our skilled San Diego, CA aesthetic dentists, who are excited to assist you in developing a positively dazzling smile.

Uncover Why Your General Dentist Is Essential For Great Dental Wellness: Having access to a gorgeous smile is certainly something all people seek for their family. Even though going to the dentist isn’t most people’s most treasured commitment, maintaining the well-being of your family’s mouths with the help of a knowledgeable, primary care dental practitioner is vital for your total health. Current developments in the oral care field, including how patients now access care, have made it more convenient than ever before to make sure your smile is in decent health. Our general dentistry staff at Dental Express in San Diego, CA, asks you to discover what you can receive when you partner with a general dentist to help you gain a long-lasting, healthy smile.

ENSURING THAT YOUR DENTAL HEALTH STAYS IN TOP SHAPE
Akin to a primary care practitioner for medical dentist San Diego Health, a general care dentist is needed to help you attain and keep a healthy, shining smile. Our general care dentists provide a varied catalog of procedures to address dental issues, maintain the integrity of your enamel and gum tissue, and enhance the total visual look of your mouth. To improve your dental wellness and have your teeth in great shape, our primary care dental practitioners may work with other specialists as certain treatment needs arise.

IT IS IMPORTANT TO SEE A COMPREHENSIVE CARE DENTIST TWO TIMES EACH YEAR
Visiting a credentialed dentist for regular care and treatment for certain dental problems is essential for getting the most ideal chance to show off a healthy mouth. The dental professionals and staff at Dental Express in San Diego, CA, are proud to perform a diverse range of dental services and place your family’s oral wellness as our primary focus. Receiving care from our team will allow you to experience the best level of dental health, as you’ll be provided with numerous dentistry procedures that include:

Annual dental evaluations are a necessary part of comprehensive care.
Regular oral checkups allow our team to have a detailed look at your gumline, enamel, jaw alignment, temporomandibular joints, and your various oral structures that play a role in a happy smile. During your appointments, oral cancer diagnostics are done to discern any possible areas that could be harmful as soon as possible. Oral scans are taken so our staff can review your jawbone support, tooth positioning, fillings, and various other restorations, and also search for decay between the teeth. Keeping up with annual oral examinations gives the valuable advantage of being ahead of any potential oral disorders and treating issues before they can have an unfavorable repercussion for your smile and dental wellness.

Professional oral cleanings help to keep your enamel clear of plaque and food particles.
If you set up one-on-ones at Dental Express in San Diego, CA two times a year for thorough teeth cleanings, you should reduce the accumulation of plaque, tartar, and discoloration and enjoy the beauty of a bright, clean smile. Teeth cleanings involve plaque and tartar elimination, shining the enamel, and flossing between them for a healthy glow. Useful dental care instructions can also be given to help you keep up a clean mouth between dental visits.

Advanced treatment is necessary for damaged or missing teeth.
General kids dentistry equally contributes in managing various areas of oral wellness. Deteriorating or cracked teeth are renewed by our primary care dental practitioners to reestablish their shape and function using services like tooth-colored fillings, dental crowns, or inlays and onlays. Bridges, false teeth, and Medicare dental implants as tooth replacement alternatives bestow renewed feeling, function, and radiance back into your smile if a number of teeth are in need of replacement.

Our staff provides advanced care options for each member of your household.
Building a connection with our primary care dental professionals at Dental Express in San Diego, CA, will help make sure that each person in your family has access to the best possible care when it’s most vital. Along with routine dental care and advanced options, family dentistry offers every one of your loved ones with a varied assortment of treatments to meet basic oral needs. Some of these services include solutions for periodontal disease natural treatment, sealants for kids & adults, and fluoride treatments to protect your mouth against tooth decay, as well as personalized mouth guards to keep you and your family’s smiles unhurt when participating in outdoor activities.

Innovative solutions for complex oral conditions.
In some situations, having access to overall oral treatment consists of treatments like endodontic therapy, teeth grinding treatment, teeth straightening, and surgical or simple tooth removals. Our primary care dentists are the pros to turn to when oral accidents place your overall wellbeing in danger. Although Dental Express aims to create a relaxing environment for all patients, anesthetic procedures could also be performed to make going to the dental office a great experience.

EARLY CARE ENCOURAGES BETTER WELLNESS
Brushing and flossing your teeth are essential to make sure your gum tissue, teeth, and various other dental structures are in their most ideal condition — but consistent dental care is just a small aspect of what’s required to retain good dental health. Receiving routine oral management from the skilled staff at Dental Express in San Diego, CA, who are dedicated to your family’s smiles, helps to diagnose and treat dental problems early on. This can help you steer clear of more invasive procedure needs and costs in the future. Gum disease, for example, has been shown to influence different aspects of physical dental wellness by raising the risks and consequences of conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and memory loss. Receiving the dental care you need can help your dental health and smile in the future.

YOUR TRUSTED DENTIST IS YOUR BEST ASSET FOR GOOD ORAL TREATMENT
Selecting a primary care dental practitioner you can trust to help your family’s dental health is important and as necessary as finding the best family doctor. Ranging from routine dental one-on-ones to more complex solutions, general dental care is definitely required to attain a bright, clean smile. At Dental Express in San Diego, CA, our caring team has years of knowledge in general dental care and is ready to help our patients achieve a lasting future filled with clean smiles. For those who are looking for a knowledgeable general dentist, contact our practice today and schedule your dental session.

Imagine being in a tiny space underwater for more than 50 days!

That was a regular part of Dr. Jamie Ferguson’s life during his 10-year tenure in the Navy, where he worked in the submarine division as a sonar technician. A veteran of Operation Desert Shield/Storm, he joined the Navy when he was 18 years old, and was even on station when Russia fell. During his military career, he completed multiple deployments onboard nuclear-powered fast-attack submarines.

So what was it like to be underwater for 50 to 70 days at a time? Ask Dr. Jamie and he’ll likely give you his trademark smile and crack a witty joke. “Submariners are real pranksters. When you’re underwater for that long, you have to have a thick skin and good sense of humor,” he said. “It’s like having a MENSA convention at a biker bar!” Comments like that are just one of the many reasons our staff and patients love Dr. Jamie.

Inspiration to Study Medicine & Dentistry

While in the Navy, Dr. Jamie was in a bad accident that ultimately inspired him to go into medicine. After he was honorably discharged from the Navy, he completed his undergraduate degree at San Diego State University and later received his dental training at the University of the Pacific School of Dentistry—one of the most prestigious dental schools in the U.S. He graduated in 2003 and owned his own dental practice until 2009. While he loved working with patients, he didn’t like being isolated, and he wanted to work with other dentists as a part of a dynamic health care team. When he learned that Dental Express was looking for a new dentist to join the team, he applied. He had a working interview, and we were so impressed by his dedication, knowledge and his love for the profession that we immediately hired him! So, after a career change and a life aboard a submarine, what is the next adventure for Dr. Jamie?

Dr. Jamie’s Bucket List

At the top of his bucket list is a dream 10-city whiskey/barbecue tour around America. (Is it any wonder he enjoys watching the Food Network?) Dr. Jamie loves his barbecuing, so please help us convince him to cook up a wonderful batch for all of the staff here at Dental Express. Dr. Jamie has been married for 25 years and has three sons, ages 13, 18 and 23. His oldest son just got out of the Marine Corps and his 18-year-old is enrolled at San Francisco State. Dr. Jamie is a member of several professional organizations, including the San Diego County Dental Society, the California Dental Association, and the American Dental Association. In addition, he’s also Chief of Academic Affairs for California Dental Certifications, a San Diego-based dental assistant training program. He volunteers as a lecturer for the San Diego State Pre-Dental program. In his spare time, he coaches Little League, enjoys sailing – and is in the process of getting his skipper’s license. He’s also a huge fan of paddle boarding. We’d like to take a moment to thank Dr. Jamie and his family for serving our country. We are also sincerely appreciative of all that he does to help make our community a healthier, more vibrant place to live. As for his barbecue adventure, we’ll keep you posted. Maybe we can convince him to write a blog about his “bucket list tour,” so stay tuned…

Dr. Michelle: You can take the dentist out of California, but you can’t take California out of the dentist.

A Huge Fan of the Golden State

Dr. Michelle is a huge fan of the Golden State. Originally from Redondo Beach, she completed her undergraduate degree from the University of California at San Diego. She received her dental training from the UCLA School of Dentistry.

However, for her general dentistry residency, she traveled to the East Coast where she worked at a Trauma 1 Center in New York. This meant she saw a lot of emergency patients. While it was very valuable training, it also made her realize how much she missed the relationship-building that is the hallmark of family dentistry.

After her residency, she headed back to the West Coast to focus on family, especially pediatric dentistry. Dr. Michelle is very familiar with family dentistry: both her dad and her brother are orthodontists!

A Fun & Enthusiastic Dentist for Kids

“I’m a California girl!” she says enthusiastically. “I also love treating kids—and as they’ll tell you, I also like hearing and telling silly jokes.”

She is a huge fan of the hiking and biking trails that wind throughout the San Diego area, which she enjoys with her boyfriend of five years.

“My favorite hiking trial is the Kwaay Paay Peak, a one-hour loop that takes me above the clouds,” she says.

Dr. Michelle speaks English, Spanish and Vietnamese. Visit her at our Downtown location…and be sure to tell her your favorite silly joke!

Want to know more? You can learn more about Dr. Michelle and our other Dental Express care providers. _____ Dental Express offers dental care for the entire family, including SmileCorrect, implants, emergency dental care and maintenance services. With four convenient locations in San Diego, our practice features compassionate care coupled with state-of-the-art technology. Contact us to schedule an appointment today. _____

Top 10 Questions You Should Ask Your Child’s Dentist: “Why?” If you have a little one, chances are you’ve heard this word 700 times a day. Children are full of questions, and sometimes adults are too. We always want our patients to feel free to ask us any questions—we’re dedicated to providing the highest-quality dental care for your entire family. Check out these top ten questions you should ask your child’s dentist. Remember, you can always ask your Dental Express dentist for more detailed information.

Ten questions you should ask your child’s dentist

1. What should I use to clean my child’s teeth?

The journey to a healthier smile starts when your child is young. Good oral health is so important at this age because you’re setting the stage for good habits that will hopefully continue throughout your child’s life. We recommend using a small, soft-bristled toothbrush that is specifically designed for children or infants.

2. Does thumb sucking hurt my child’s teeth?

If your child loves to suck his or her thumb or the pacifier is a regular favorite, you should speak with one of our dentists. Whether it damages teeth depends upon how long it continues. In general, if these habits don’t continue for too long, thumb sucking is not a problem. However, past age three, your dentist may have some recommendations to protect your child’s teeth. If you’re concerned, please ask us, and we’ll be glad to discuss it with you.

3. How do I keep my child from being afraid of the dentist?

We don’t ever want anyone—child or adult—to be afraid of the dentist. We understand that sometimes the noises and smells may make children uneasy. That’s why we really would like a chance to get to know your child before he or she is scheduled for the first dental visit. This gives him or her a chance to meet our team. We have created a relaxing environment, and we honestly feel like our patients are a part of our extended family. You may want to check out our earlier blog on how to make your child’s visit to the dentist more fun.

4. Is it safe for my child to have dental X-rays?

Dental X-rays pose very little risk. We go a step further and use faster film and digital X-rays, which means that you and your children are exposed to even less radiation than you would during a “normal” X-ray.

5. What if my child knocks out a permanent tooth?

Dental emergencies can happen any time. The first order of business is to find the tooth. When you find it, gently hold it by the crown (not the root) and try to slide it back into the socket. If that’s not possible, put it in a glass of milk and get to us as soon as possible. We’ve also compiled a complete guide to dental emergencies you might like to have on hand for future reference.

6. Is my child getting enough fluoride?

To a large extent, this depends upon your primary source of drinking water. If your child drinks a lot of bottled water without fluoride, your dentist may consider fluoride supplements. One of our providers will be happy to speak with you and make recommendations.

7. How often does my child need to see the dentist?

In general, once every six months (the same as adults) is adequate. However, this isn’t a hard and fast rule. We understand that different patients have different needs and your dentist will give you information about how often would be the most beneficial.

8. What do I do when my child has a toothache?

Rinse the area with warm salt water. If your child’s face is swollen, place a cold compress on his or her face. Give your child an appropriate pain reliever, but do NOT place aspirin on the teeth or gums. Call us to schedule an appointment as soon as possible. There are several potential reasons for a toothache and we want to be sure there are no problems. Remember, we offer walk-in appointments as well.

9. What are dental sealants and how can they help my child?

A sealant is a thin coating of BPA-free plastic that “seals” back teeth to keep them cavity-free. Think of it as a clear layer of fingernail polish for your teeth that protects them from the acid that causes tooth decay. We do recommend dental sealants for kids certain ages.

10. If my child has a loose tooth, should we pull it?

Ah! The great debate: It’s tempting to look at that loose, waggling tooth and want to help your child remove it, but we do not recommend it. Pulling it yourself can easily damage sensitive tissue. (We look at the topic more in depth on our blog.) We want to be partners in your care! Of course, this isn’t an exhaustive list. We know how important it is to tailor each treatment plan to meet the needs of every patient, no matter what age. We’re dedicated to taking time to answer any questions or concerns you have. It’s just another way that our family is pleased to serve your family. Dental Express offers dental care for the entire family, including SmileCorrect, dental implants San Diego, emergency dental care and maintenance services. With four convenient locations in San Diego, our practice features compassionate care coupled with state-of-the-art technology. Contact us to schedule an appointment today.

How Early Americans Took Care of Their Teeth: Imagine if, instead of brushing and flossing, you had to fill your mouth with charcoal to clean your teeth. It’s an unappealing thought, yet it was reality for many early Americans who didn’t have the benefit of toothbrushes and toothpaste, let alone family dentistry. Early Americans — from Native Americans to the Pilgrims to the Founding Fathers — found creative ways to help prevent tooth decay, even if those methods would make us cringe today. They were unpleasant and often ineffective, which explains why so many of these early residents, like our first president, had to have dentures.

How did people clean their teeth before toothpaste or toothbrushes?

If you are thinking about when was toothpaste invented, you must first know the reason behind its invention. Salt, rough cloths and charcoal don’t fit the definition of gentle dentistry, yet that was the way people would care for their teeth. Often, they would use water and a rough cloth, scrubbing their teeth. Salt and charcoal were often rubbed across the teeth and then rinsed away. However, the most common way of taking care of teeth involved taking a birch twig and fraying the end, making a primitive brush. Dental powders were also used. They were made from strange concoctions of burned eggshells ashes and animal hooves.

What did they do for dental emergencies?

Today, when you have a dental emergency, you can take advantage of the latest first-aid techniques, easily access a dentist on-call or have a walk-in appointment. However, if you were some of the first American settlers, emergency dentistry didn’t remotely resemble what we have today. Often, there was a town surgeon (in some cases, this was also the barber) who would pull the tooth or possibly try to fight the infections by applying cabbage worms that would eat away at the damaged tissue. This may have been a common treatment because there was a pervasive belief that dental pain was caused by a worm traveling through the mouth. This theory was not debunked until the 1700s.

The first “official” toothbrush in America

Are you curious to know when did people start brushing their teeth? American innovator H.N. Wadsworth held the first patent for a toothbrush in 1857, but it wasn’t until the 1930s that nylon bristles made toothbrushes look more like the ones seen today. In fact, it wasn’t until after WWII that Americans developed the habit of brushing their teeth regularly. This was a habit that American G.I.s brought back with them from Europe.

Thank goodness for modern dentistry!

At our office, you’ll find no twigs, no charcoal and no burned eggshells! You’ll find only the most advanced technology practiced by our wonderful, enthusiastic healthcare family. The last decade has seen revolutionary advancements in dental care, and we implement these latest techniques to create the highest level of care from 3D printing to advanced pediatric dentistry to digital imaging to how to properly brush your teeth. Contact us to learn more about how we can serve you and your family. ___ Dental Express offers dental care for the entire family, including SmileCorrect, Dentures and Implants, emergency dental care and maintenance services. With four convenient locations in San Diego, our practice features compassionate care coupled with state-of-the-art technology. Contact us to schedule an appointment today. ___

Sources:

Scholastic. (Teacher Educational Resources.) Daily Life in the 1620s Online. Strauss, Valerie. “Ever Wondered How People Cleaned Their Teeth Before They Had Toothbrushes?” The Washington Post. Online. University of Michigan School of Dentistry. “A Timeline of Dental Hygiene.” Online.

Maybe it starts with a dull, throbbing pain. Or perhaps your child complains that it hurts when she bites down on something hard or opens her mouth really wide. These are all indications that your child could have a cavity. Obviously, getting that child’s first cavity filled might create anxiety in your little one; but you can help your child establish a healthy relationship with the dentist — even in these younger years — by taking care of this child’s first cavity in the best way possible. Our own Dr. Casey provides a few tips for parents.

First and foremost: Stay calm

Some of us are still anxious about going to the dentist well into our adult years; but it’s important to keep in mind that your child will pick up on your anxiety. You can be confident that our Dental Express staff and dentists will go the extra mile to make sure your little one is comfortable. Feel free to call us ahead of your child’s cavity filling to let us know if you have concerns about her anxiety.

Avoid telling your child that a filling is a punishment

It’s a simple tip, but easy to overlook: timing. Now is not quite the best time to admonish your child for not brushing her teeth or flossing every day! Hold off on having that conversation until after the procedure has been completed.

Talk about the procedure ahead of time

Explain what will happen – but be careful of providing too many details. It’s important for your child to understand what to expect in age-appropriate vocabulary. Explain what she’ll see and hear, so she’s not surprised by the “whirring” sound of the drill, but steer clear of using clinical words like “needles” and “drills.” Watching a few videos ahead of time will help! Check out “Dudley the Dinosaur,” the American Dental Association’s ambassador for good dental health. Dudley and his friends learn a lot about going to the dentist in their animated adventures. Sesame Street also has a classic Elmo’s World video about visiting the dentist.

Speak to us about the possibilities of laughing gas or sedatives

Sometimes, a sedative is needed to help younger children when they are having a cavity filled. However, this is not the right choice for everyone. We’ll carefully evaluate your child’s unique situation. Ask me or any of our dentists your questions about using them for this procedure.

Use this opportunity as time to get to know our staff

Hopefully, your child has already met members of our health care team. However, if you’re new to the area, we want you to know that you and your child are always welcome in our office. We find that it’s often useful to have a “getting to know you” meeting with your child before treatment. We’ll show your child the dental chair, the ones who will be caring for him or her, and help ease the anxiety of being in a new place with funny smells and a lot of noises. This way, your child will have a better idea of what to expect. Of course, if your child’s cavity requires immediate attention, we’ll schedule an appointment as soon as possible. As always, we welcome walk-in appointments from both new and established patients.

A trip to the dentist shouldn’t be frightening

Do you remember your first trip to the dentist? What were some of the thoughts or feelings you had? If you were nervous or apprehensive, realize that your child may be experiencing the same thing. It’s natural to be uneasy when facing a new experience; that’s why it’s so important to establish a great relationship with the dentist before a cavity appears. We’ve even compiled a list of 5 ways to make your child’s trip to the dentist a fun experience. Just remember: we’ve helped children of all ages through the experience of getting their first cavity filled. We want to be partners in your care and serve your whole family. Questions? We welcome the opportunity to provide any information you need. ___ Dental Express offers dental care for the entire family, including SmileCorrect, implants, emergency dental care and maintenance services. With four convenient locations in San Diego, our practice features compassionate care coupled with state-of-the-art technology. Contact us to schedule an appointment today. ___