Understanding the Why's and How's of Root Canal Therapy

Here is a brief to do list in preparation for your first visit to Dr. Arias: Prepare Your Dental History: If you have visited a dentist before, gather your dental records and bring them to your appointment. This includes information about past treatments, surgeries, x-rays, or any dental issues you've had. List Down Your Current Medications: If you're on any medication, make a list of it, including dosage and frequency. Don't forget to include vitamins or supplements. This information is vital as some medications can influence dental treatment decisions. Prepare a List of Questions and Concerns : Write down any questions or concerns you have about your oral health. This might include issues like tooth sensitivity, bleeding gums, or cosmetic dentistry queries. Understand Your Dental Insurance: If you have dental insurance, bring the necessary documentation and know what your plan covers. Check if the clinic accepts your insurance. Arrive Early: Plan to arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled appointment. This will give you ample time to fill out any necessary paperwork and relax before your appointment. Practice Good Oral Hygiene: Brush and floss your teeth before your visit. This is not only polite but will also help the dentist assess your oral health more accurately. Mentally Prepare Yourself : If you have dental anxiety, try to find ways to calm yourself before and during your visit. This might involve practicing deep breathing exercises, listening to calming music, or discussing your fears with your dentist. Follow-up on Your Next Appointment: Before leaving the dental office, schedule your next check-up. Regular dental visits (typically every six months) are essential for maintaining good oral health. Remember, your dentist is there to help improve and maintain your oral health. The more prepared you are for your first visit, the more efficient and beneficial the appointment will be.

Dental Inlays, Onlays, and Crowns: What Are They and How Do They Work? If you've ever needed dental work beyond a simple filling, you may have heard the terms inlays, onlays, and crowns. But what exactly are these dental treatments, and how do they work? In this article, we'll explore each of these procedures and explain when they might be recommended. What Are Inlays and Onlays? Inlays and onlays are dental restorations that are used to repair teeth that have moderate to severe damage, such as a large cavity or a broken tooth. They are similar to fillings, but they are custom-made in a dental laboratory and then bonded to the tooth with a strong adhesive. An inlay is used to repair damage to the inside of the tooth, while an onlay is used to repair damage to the inside and outside of the tooth. In other words, an inlay sits inside the tooth, while an onlay extends over the tooth's surface. Both inlays and onlays can be made of porcelain, composite resin, or gold. How Do Inlays and Onlays Work? The process of getting an inlay or onlay typically involves two appointments with your dentist. During the first appointment, your dentist will remove any damaged or decayed tooth material and take an impression of your tooth. This impression is sent to a dental laboratory, where your custom restoration will be made. In the meantime, your dentist will place a temporary restoration on your tooth to protect it while you wait for your permanent restoration. Once your custom restoration is ready, you'll return to your dentist's office for the second appointment. Your dentist will remove the temporary restoration and bond the permanent restoration to your tooth. What Is a Crown? A dental crown is a custom-made restoration that completely covers a damaged or decayed tooth. Crowns are typically recommended for teeth that are too damaged for an inlay or onlay, or for teeth that have undergone a root canal. Crowns can be made of porcelain, ceramic, or metal, and they are custom-made to fit your tooth perfectly. They are designed to look and function like your natural tooth, and they can be used to improve the appearance of a misshapen or discolored tooth. How Do Crowns Work? Getting a crown typically requires two appointments with your dentist. During the first appointment, your dentist will prepare your tooth by removing any damaged or decayed tooth material and shaping the remaining tooth to fit the crown. Your dentist will then take an impression of your tooth, which is sent to a dental laboratory to create your custom crown. In the meantime, your dentist will place a temporary crown on your tooth to protect it while you wait for your permanent restoration. Once your custom crown is ready, you'll return to your dentist's office for the second appointment. Your dentist will remove the temporary crown and bond the permanent crown to your tooth. In Conclusion Inlays, onlays, and crowns are all effective dental restorations that can help repair damaged or decayed teeth. Your dentist can help determine which restoration is right for you based on the extent of the damage and the location of the tooth. With the right dental care and maintenance, these restorations can provide lasting protection for your teeth and help you maintain a healthy, beautiful smile.

The Essentials of Simple Tooth Extraction: Purpose and Procedure

Introduction: In recent years, dental technology has advanced rapidly, and one of the most significant developments has been the advent of digital scanning and X-ray technology. With state-of-the-art equipment and highly trained dental professionals, digital scanning and X-rays provide a range of benefits that traditional methods simply cannot match. Precision and Accuracy: One of the most significant advantages of digital scanning and X-rays is their precision and accuracy. Digital scanning allows dentists to create highly detailed 3D images of teeth, gums, and other oral structures, providing a much clearer picture of a patient's dental health. Additionally, digital X-rays use less radiation than traditional X-rays, making them safer and more comfortable for patients. Efficiency and Convenience: Digital scanning and X-rays are also more efficient and convenient than traditional methods. The images can be captured quickly and easily, and the results are available almost instantly. This means that dentists can diagnose and treat dental problems more quickly and accurately, resulting in better patient outcomes and a more pleasant overall experience. Improved Communication: Digital scanning and X-rays also make it easier for dentists to communicate with patients about their oral health. The highly detailed images allow dentists to show patients exactly what is happening in their mouths, making it easier for patients to understand their dental health and the treatments they may need. Conclusion: Digital scanning and X-rays are a game-changer in the world of dentistry. With their precision, accuracy, efficiency, and convenience, they provide a range of benefits that traditional methods simply cannot match. At our practice, we are committed to providing the highest level of care to our patients, and we are proud to offer state-of-the-art digital scanning and X-ray technology. Experience the difference for yourself – schedule an appointment with us today and see how digital scanning and X-rays can exceed your expectations.

Introduction: Preventive dental services are essential for maintaining optimal oral health and preventing a range of dental health issues. From cavity prevention to early stage gum disease treatment, these services are designed to help patients avoid more extensive and costly dental work down the road. In addition to general preventive care, patients with certain medical conditions require specific care instructions to maintain good oral health. In this blog, we will explore some of the preventive dental services that we offer at our practice, including specific care instructions for patients with diabetes, heart disease, and during pregnancy. Cavity Prevention: One of the most important preventive dental services is cavity prevention. At our practice, we use fluoride treatments and sealants to protect teeth from decay and cavities. Patients with diabetes or heart disease may be at a higher risk of developing cavities and other dental health issues due to their medical conditions. For these patients, we may recommend more frequent dental cleanings and exams to monitor their oral health. Early Stage Gum Disease Treatment : Another critical preventive dental service is early stage gum disease treatment. Patients with diabetes and heart disease are at a higher risk of developing gum disease, which can lead to tooth loss and other health problems. We work with our patients to develop a personalized treatment plan that may include more frequent cleanings, antibiotic therapy, and improved at-home oral hygiene practices. Pregnancy: Pregnant women also require specific dental care instructions to maintain good oral health. Hormonal changes during pregnancy can increase the risk of gum disease and other dental health issues. We recommend that pregnant women schedule a dental exam during the second trimester and continue to practice good oral hygiene, including brushing at least twice a day for at least two minutes, flossing daily, and using antibacterial rinses and toothpaste. Conclusion: Preventive dental services are essential for maintaining optimal oral health and preventing a range of dental health issues. Patients with certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease, and during pregnancy, require specific care instructions to maintain good oral health. At our practice, we work with our patients to develop personalized treatment plans that address their unique needs and help them achieve and maintain healthy, beautiful smiles for years to come. Don't wait until you experience pain or discomfort to visit your dentist – schedule a preventive dental appointment today and take control of your dental health.

Dental Hygiene Dental hygiene comes in the form of regular cleanings and is the best investment in your smile. At your initial appointment and regular check-ups every six months, a trusted dental hygienist will gently and thoroughly clean your teeth. Cleanings help prevent cavities, tooth decay, gum disease, and other conditions. A regular cleaning includes the removal of plaque, calculus, and stains from teeth using ultrasonic and hand instruments. A fluoride treatment will also be applied to maintain the benefits of each dental cleaning. Our exceptional care, knowledgeable staff, and pleasant, comfortable surroundings are a few reasons why patients love us. Our hygienists perform thorough dental cleanings as well as teach you how to keep your smile healthy. Your dental cleaning appointment will typically include: Removal of Plaque – When you eat, naturally occurring bacteria in your mouth produce acids that form plaque. This filmy substance coats the surfaces of your teeth, eventually dissolving the outer layer called enamel. Regular cleanings at home and at the dentist can keep plaque from permanently damaging your teeth. Tartar Removal – Also known as calculus, tartar is a hardened plaque that is firmly attached to the tooth. This substance is above and below the gum line, and can only be removed during a trip to the dentist. Teeth Polishing – While a dental cleaning removes plaque and tartar from your teeth, polishing makes the surfaces of your teeth smooth. This technique removes the stains from substances like coffee, tea, and wine that build up over time. Fluoride Treatment – Fluoride helps prevent tooth decay by making your teeth more resistant to acid attacks from plaque, bacteria, and sugars in the mouth. Fluoride will help remineralize teeth that have been affected by decay, stopping cavities from forming. Periodontal Therapy Dr. Jonathan Arias treats gum disease by carefully removing the bacteria and substances that form in the pockets around the teeth. The removal of this material occurs on a microscopic level and requires great skill. Dr. Arias’ dental team has had advanced training to effectively remove all of the bacteria. For two to three days after the treatment, you may have some soreness and be sensitive to hot and cold temperatures. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help alleviate discomfort. You may be asked to use an antiseptic mouth rinse after scaling and root planning. This is especially likely if your gums are very sore. However, you should continue brushing and flossing as usual. You can expect some minor bleeding in the first days after scaling and root planning. This usually stops within a week.

If you've ever needed dental work beyond a simple filling, you may have heard the terms inlays, onlays, and crowns. But what exactly are these dental treatments, and how do they work? In this article, we'll explore each of these procedures and explain when they might be recommended. What Are Inlays and Onlays? Inlays and onlays are dental restorations that are used to repair teeth that have moderate to severe damage, such as a large cavity or a broken tooth. They are similar to fillings, but they are custom-made in a dental laboratory and then bonded to the tooth with a strong adhesive. An inlay is used to repair damage to the inside of the tooth, while an onlay is used to repair damage to the inside and outside of the tooth. In other words, an inlay sits inside the tooth, while an onlay extends over the tooth's surface. Both inlays and onlays can be made of porcelain, composite resin, or gold. How Do Inlays and Onlays Work? The process of getting an inlay or onlay typically involves two appointments with your dentist. During the first appointment, your dentist will remove any damaged or decayed tooth material and take an impression of your tooth. This impression is sent to a dental laboratory, where your custom restoration will be made. In the meantime, your dentist will place a temporary restoration on your tooth to protect it while you wait for your permanent restoration. Once your custom restoration is ready, you'll return to your dentist's office for the second appointment. Your dentist will remove the temporary restoration and bond the permanent restoration to your tooth. What Is a Crown? A dental crown is a custom-made restoration that completely covers a damaged or decayed tooth. Crowns are typically recommended for teeth that are too damaged for an inlay or onlay, or for teeth that have undergone a root canal. Crowns can be made of porcelain, ceramic, or metal, and they are custom-made to fit your tooth perfectly. They are designed to look and function like your natural tooth, and they can be used to improve the appearance of a misshapen or discolored tooth. How Do Crowns Work? Getting a crown typically requires two appointments with your dentist. During the first appointment, your dentist will prepare your tooth by removing any damaged or decayed tooth material and shaping the remaining tooth to fit the crown. Your dentist will then take an impression of your tooth, which is sent to a dental laboratory to create your custom crown. In the meantime, your dentist will place a temporary crown on your tooth to protect it while you wait for your permanent restoration. Once your custom crown is ready, you'll return to your dentist's office for the second appointment. Your dentist will remove the temporary crown and bond the permanent crown to your tooth. In Conclusion Inlays, onlays, and crowns are all effective dental restorations that can help repair damaged or decayed teeth. Your dentist can help determine which restoration is right for you based on the extent of the damage and the location of the tooth. With the right dental care and maintenance, these restorations can provide lasting protection for your teeth and help you maintain a healthy, beautiful smile.