FAQ on Gingivitis

Suffering from red swollen gums that easily bleed when you brush or floss? You may have gingivitis.

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What is gingivitis?

Gingivitis is a gum disease that happens when tissues encasing and supporting your teeth becomes inflamed. Gingivitis is quite common, and since can be mild, you may not know that you have this.

What causes gingivitis?

Poor dental hygiene is the cause of gingivitis. It starts with tiny food leftovers that mix with your saliva, which then forms bacteria filled plaque. If you do not brush this off the surfaces of your teeth, it then becomes tartar. Tartar is hard and can only be removed with a visit to the dental clinic.

Is gingivitis contagious?

The answer is a simple yes. If you have gingivitis be warned that your saliva carries bacteria that may be easily transferred to other people.

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What is the treatment for gingivitis?

Go to the dental office to have an initial evaluation of your gum disease. She will also do an oral prophylaxis. Ask your dentist for advice and directions on how you can properly care for your teeth. Your dentist might recommend medications and even dental procedure.

What happened if I don’t get gingivitis cured?

Gingivitis causes other gum diseases such as periodontitis, and even lead to tooth loss. 

Dr. Cecilia Lontoc DMD is one of the best dentists. For more information or to schedule your dental checkup, please call (310) 782-6155  or visit our website at www.cecilialontocdmd.com

Crown or Filling, what takes the cake?

A dental filling for a crown? If this was the age of the Spanish Armada, kings and queens would all yearn for a crown.

However, we are talking about your tooth, and in this case, it all is a matter of your tooth problems. How do you decide which dental procedure should you get?

First off, you need to identify the problem. The reason why you need this dental procedure done is because you have a cavity within your teeth.

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The size and shape of the cavity is a big factor in determining what dental restoration works best for you.

A dental filling will work to simply seal that hole and restore your tooth to its original shape.

But, if the cavity is large and has caused decay and breakage, this is when you will need a dental crown.  Dental crowns are stronger as compared to fillings. They are made in a dental laboratory, which will make another visit to the dental clinic necessary.

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A dental crown may come off, but when compared to a large dental filling, a crown’s hold on your tooth is more secure.

Whatever choice you make will depend on you and your dentist. Keep in mind however that getting a filling is not a preventive measure for a dental crown, which is a bit pricey. So, better take care of your teeth.

Dr. Cecilia Lontoc DMD is one of the best dentists. For more information or to schedule your dental checkup, please call (310) 782-6155  or visit our website at www.cecilialontocdmd.com

What is Dental Bridge?

Just like a bridge that connects one point from another, a dental bridge links one tooth with another. Dental bridges fill in the gap set by an extraction or genes.

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What is dental bridge?

Bridges are made of two or more dental crowns. Most bridges are attached on a tooth or implant called abutment teeth. The abutment teeth reinforce the false tooth in between.  These crowns are made of gold, metal, alloy, ceramics, and can be a combination of all these.

Dental bridges can help you make prettier as it brings back that great smile and keeps the shape of your face. It also restores your chewing and speaking as well as avoids remaining teeth from moving out of position.

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Dental bridge procedure

Refitting your teeth is a common dental bridge procedure. This is so that the bridge will fit properly. 

There are three types of permanent dental bridge: traditional which uses porcelain and metal, cantilever bridge uses an adjacent tooth, and the Maryland bonded bridge which is made of resin.  Like crowns, you can ask your dentist and choose which material will suit you most.

Dr. Cecilia Lontoc DMD is one of the best dentists. For more information or to schedule your dental checkup, please call (310) 782-6155  or visit our website at www.cecilialontocdmd.com

The Teeth and The Crown

Crowns are often the recommended method of restoration.  It is used to cover a damage tooth, and even improve its appearance.

What is dental crown?

A dental crown is a prosthetic device which is cemented to your tooth.  As it is sturdy and tough, it can only be removed by your dentist.  You may need it to protect your tooth, restore a decaying tooth, and even cover your tooth or dental implant.

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Types of dental crowns

Porcelain crowns. Ceramic or porcelain crowns are easy on the eyes as they match the color of your natural tooth.  Be wary however as the ceramic may chip and even break.

Stainless steel crowns. Stainless steel crowns are most often used for pediatrics dentistry. This type of crown will jut out naturally when your kid’s baby tooth is coming out.

Metal crowns. Other materials used for crowns are gold and metal alloys. Metal alloys are most commonly recommended for the back teeth as they are more robust than porcelain crowns.

Porcelain fused metal crowns. This type of crown is suggested for both back and front teeth. Just like the porcelain crown, it can also be matched to the natural color of your teeth. 

Dr. Cecilia Lontoc DMD is one of the best dentists. For more information or to schedule your dental checkup, please call (310) 782-6155  or visit our website at www.cecilialontocdmd.com

Which braces work for you?

Thinking of having your teeth straightened, choose from the different types of braces.

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Metal Braces

Also called traditional braces, these are the ones with metal brackets and wires.

If you are going for low-priced braces cost, metal braces is the one for you.  Some say that this is even the most comfortable choice. Note however, that this is also the most visible of all the types of braces.

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Lingual Braces

Nearly invisiblebraces as the metal brackets and wires are placed behind your teeth. This is more costly and more time consuming as compared to metal braces. Another downside is that it is hard to clean.

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Clear ceramic braces

If you have this, to the unsuspecting eye, it might look like your pearly whites look great. Ceramic braces blend with the color of your teeth which makes them less noticeable than metal braces. If you are wearing this, clean your teeth as often as possible as ceramic braces stain easily.

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Invisalign

If you want to eat and drink anything, invisalign is the way to go. It is a specially molded mouth guard that is made of clear plastic aligners. These aligners will need to be replaced every two weeks, and would not work if you have severe dental problems. 

Dr. Cecilia Lontoc DMD is one of the best dentists. For more information or to schedule your dental checkup, please call (310) 782-6155  or visit our website at www.cecilialontocdmd.com

Food that’s Good and Bad for your Teeth

Apart from the usual dental care tips of brushing and flossing, there are also other ways for better dental care. One of them is with food, yes the one you put in your mouth. However not all food may be helpful for your teeth.

GOOD FOOD:

Milk. We all know that this dairy product is rich in calcium. This mineral is not only beneficial to your bones, but to your teeth as well. Calcium helps prevent periodontal gum disease and maintains a strong jaw bone.

Apples and pears. Crunchy fruits and vegetables like apples and pears have high water content. This helps dilute the sugar content coming from them and even in your mouth.

Chewing gum. Sugarless gum is helpful, as chewing assists in freeing food debris trapped in your teeth. Note however, that chewing gum in excess may be bad for your jaw.

Water.  It has been said that water is good for your body, well it is also good for your teeth. Water fuels your saliva, which in turns help defend your teeth against tooth and gum decay.

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BAD FOOD:

Candy. Lollipops and mints contain large amount of sugar, which can drive bacteria.

Oranges and lemon. Citrus foods can erode the tooth enamel, leaving it receptive to gum decay. If you are going to munch on some orange, eat some other food to help diminish its acidity level.

Dried fruits. Chewing on dried fruits and trail mix can lead to teeth diseases. These foods damages your teeth as they tend to stay longer in your mouth.

Potato chips and French fries. These crunchy food fare contains starch, which may end stuck in between your teeth.

Ice. Not just because it is made of water doesn't mean it’s good for your teeth. Remember that it is a solid substance that may leave your teeth defenceless leading to dental problems.

Dr. Cecilia Lontoc DMD is one of the best dentists. For more information or to schedule your dental checkup, please call (310) 782-6155  or visit our website at www.cecilialontocdmd.com

Why Flossing is Important

Ever heard of the phrase, brushing alone is not enough?

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The statement serves true, as there are places your toothbrush cannot reach. In these places, bacteria builds up, causing plaque and tooth decay.

The American Dental Association recommends brushing at least twice daily. For sure you have been doing this. However, have you also been up to flossing at least once a day, as the ADA recommended?

Your toothbrush can clean the top and outer surface of your teeth. But, what about the tight spaces and between your chompers and mini holes in between your teeth and gums? Sure a mouthwash can help eradicate the bacteria; but it doesn’t remove the dogged tartar. Floss functions as an interdental clinic, to help you clean these spaces.  Flossing plays a major role in removing food debris, making your pearly whites look brighter.

Apart from retaining that great smile, flossing also helps keep you maintain healthygums and teeth. We do know that a clean mouth can help prevent teeth diseases, and other illnesses such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and more.

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How to floss:

Some say flossing is hard, however with practice, you can floss perfectly.

Wrap the floss in your fingers, and as you guide the string of floss in your mouth, do it in a push and pull motion. Repeat with your other teeth.

Make flossing a habit. So, the next time you visit the dental clinic, you can beam proudly that yes you have been flossing.

Dr. Cecilia Lontoc DMD is one of the best dentists. For more information or to schedule your dental checkup, please call (310) 782-6155  or visit our website at www.cecilialontocdmd.com

The Truth about Tooth Decay

One of the most common problems, tooth decay happens when germs make acids that plague your tooth.

Difference from cavity

Cavity occurs when a tooth decay creates a hole. Cavity is often also called tooth decay.

Causes:

·         Eating foods high in sugar and carbohydrate, as this sustain the bacteria.

·         Sparse fluoride nutrient, as fluoride makes teeth tough against acids.

·         Minimal saliva discharge, saliva rinses sugar and other food debris.

·         Diabetes

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Symptoms:

·         Tooth ache

·         Bad breathe or bad taste in the mouth

·         Spots on your tooth

Treatments:

A filling may be needed when you have tooth decay. If the cavity is severe, a crown may suffice, if it is infected you may need root canal.

Don’t get your tooth spoiled to the root as this may call for tooth extraction.

Prevention:

·         Brush your teeth twice daily.

·         Visit the dental office for checkups, do this at least twice a year

·         Avoid snacks before you sleep, food left in your mouth during the night will cause tooth decay.

·         Avoid too much sugar

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       Dr. Cecilia Lontoc DMD is one of the best dentists. For more information or to schedule your dental checkup, please call (310) 782-6155  or visit our website at www.cecilialontocdmd.com

5 Different Fillings

If you have a cavity, your dentist will remove the rotting portion.  This is when you will need to fill in that part of your tooth. Here are the different types of fillings to choose from.

Amalgam Filling

Mixture of: silver, copper, tin, zinc, and mercury

Durability:  Seven years or longer

Amalgam is great for filling in the back teeth, as this does not match the color of the teeth.  This can be completed with just one visit to the dental clinic. Beware, however, as unaffected areas of your teeth may be removed to ensure that the space is big enough. Since amalgam filling does not bond with the tooth, this can decay or tarnish over time.

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Cast Gold

Mixture of: Gold and other metals

Durability: Seven years or longer

                Since gold does not corrode, this type of filling is tough to endure your chews. If next to an amalgam filling, you may experience galvanic shock. This is when the two metals and your saliva produce an electric current.

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Ceramics

Mixture of: Porcelain

Durability: five to seven years

                Ceramic filling matched the color of your teeth.  When compared to composite resin, they are more resistant yet more brittle. There may be times that the health part of your teeth may be cut to make more room.

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Composite filing

Mixture of: plastic and glass particles

Durability: at least five years

                There are two types of composite filling:  the direct filling which is placed by the dentist using a dental equipment that lets out blue light and the indirect filling which fits your tooth for a laboratory to make the filling. These are great for the front of your teeth as they are of the same color.  Composite fillings can be used for small or large fillings as they bond directly to your teeth.

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Glass Ionomer

Mixture of: glass component and acrylic

Durability: Five years or more

                Glass fillings are usually used for cementation for inlay. They are also used for the front teeth as it is tooth-colored.  What more, glass ionomer discharges fluoride. It is ideal for children, as there is no need to drill the teeth.

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Dr. Cecilia Lontoc DMD is one of the best dentists. For more information or to schedule your dental checkup, please call (310) 782-6155  or visit our website at www.cecilialontocdmd.com

Four things to tell your children about cavities

One of the unwelcome words in dental offices is cavity. 

Most often than not, cavities often occur to children rather than adults. This is why parents need to promote good dental hygiene with their kids.

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Germs drill up your tooth. Cavities are holes caused by tooth decay, which in turn was caused by plaque, which is made up of germs. To put it more simply, cavities are caused by germs that thrive on your mouth due to bad brushing habits. The bacteria in the mouth creates acid when plaque hangs on your tooth. The acids then can chomp off the external layer of your tooth.

Dentists are cavities worst enemies. A visit to dental offices can end your child’s woes. Prep them first, as they may need to take an x-ray. Dentists can fix your child’s tooth by removing the rotted part , afterwards seal it with a filling.

No more tooth. Skipping the dental office can lead to bigger dental problems. The more they put off a visit to the dental clinic, the worse the pain will be. The acids can cause toothache and even reach the inside of the tooth making it rot.

Brushing works. You can help prevent cavities by brushing your kid’s teeth after every meal or at least twice a day. Make sure to gently brush in up and down or in a circular motion. Encourage flossing teeth at least once a day. 

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For zero cavities, set an appointment with your dentist at least twice a year. These may be for check-up and regular cleaning.

Dr. Cecilia Lontoc DMD is one of the best dentists. For more information or to schedule your dental checkup, please call (310) 782-6155  or visit our website at www.cecilialontocdmd.com

Snippets of Wisdom about your Wisdom Teeth

Wisdom comes with age, and with age you gain your wisdom teeth. These are the third and last set of molars which appear during teenage years to early twenties.

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On its importance. Your wisdom teeth are a valuable asset to your mouth and jaw as it will help with chewing and speech.

On where they are. Wisdom teeth grow in the back of your mouth.  Few times, however, when one’s third molar are healthy and aligned.

On x-rays. Often, there is no room in your mouth for these late bloomers, thus causing problems. The dental clinic will give you an x-ray so that the dentist may know the position of your tooth.

On impacted teeth.  There are instance when they partially materialize on your gum line or even remain hidden. This is when your teeth become impacted.

On Extraction.  Dentists recommends the removal of your wisdom teeth if they have not fully grown, developing near a nerve, or cannot be cleaned as part of daily oral hygiene. 

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According to the American Dental Association, you should have your third molar removed when there is:

·         pain

·         infection

·         cysts

·         tumors

·         damage to adjacent teeth

·         gum disease

·         Extensive tooth decay

 Dr. Cecilia Lontoc DMD is one of the best dentists in Torrance. For more information or to schedule your dental checkup, please call (310) 782-6155  or visit our website at www.cecilialontocdmd.com

TEETH GRINDING

It seems to be something regular, teeth grinding shows off when one is anxious or stressed. However, did you know that teeth grinding or bruxism is bad for your chompers

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How can you now if you do clench your teeth?

Since most people rasp their teeth at night, most do not know that they are doing so. Tell-tale signs that you have this nocturnal habit are if you wake up with a sore jaw or a headache. Worse, if your grinding is that loud that it wakes up your partner.

Teeth grinding is common in children, but goes away when they are in their teenage years.

Why is teeth grinding harmful?

 There is no treatment needed for bruxism. However frequent teeth grinding may lead to jaw problems and headaches. These jaw problems may change the way your face looks, give you facial pain, and cause hearing loss.

They may also lead to crooked or fractured tooth, that in the future may need some root canals or implants.

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What can you do to kick the habit?

If you’re a night teeth grinder, ask your dentist for a mouth guard.

If your teeth grinding is caused by stress, talk to your dentist or doctor on how you can reduce your stress levels. You can also avoid drinks with caffeine and avoid chewing on pencils and pens.

What should you before you visit the dental clinic?

Ask your dentist if there is anything you need to do prior to the appointment. List down symptoms and stresses that you might be experiencing.

Dr. Cecilia Lontoc DMD is one of the best dentists in Torrance. For more information or to schedule your dental checkup, please call (310) 782-6155  or visit our website at www.cecilialontocdmd.com

Common Dental Procedures for your Kids

Often pediatric dentistry is different from general dentistry as your tykes need more dental needs than you do. Kids have baby tooth that will be replaced by permanent adult teeth. Plus, their jaws are still developing. Before you visit, prep your children with procedures of general dentistry for kids, so that he may know what will happen.

General Cleaning or Prophylaxis. Before your child sits on the dental chair, talk to a dental assistant about your little one’s overall health. Afterwards, your child’s mouth will be thoroughly cleansed removing the plaque and tartar.

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Xray. Children require more x-rays than adults as their mouth is still developing. An x-ray can display drawbacks in the tooth structure that is not visible to the naked eye.

Fillings and crowns. When your kid’s tooth suffers tooth decay, fillings and crowns are used to recondition your child’s front and back teeth.

Extractions. Do note that tooth removal should be done as the last resort to a severed tooth decay. If your child’s primary molar is taken off, a space maintainer should replace it.

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that your child visits the dental clinic at least twice a year.

Once you walk in the Dr. Lontoc’s dental clinic, it isn’t just the friendly staff or the laid back ambiance you will notice. It is also the comfortable air that sets this dental office apart, making it child friendly. You can trust that Dr. Lontoc will handle your child’s oral health. 

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Dr. Cecilia Lontoc DMD is one of the best dentists in Torrance. For more information or to schedule your dental checkup, please call (310) 782-6155  or visit our website at www.cecilialontocdmd.com

What you should tell your dentist

Once on the dental chair and you open your lips your dentist can tell.  However it is also important to disclose some information that your dentist may not notice or know about you.

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To guide you, we have prepared a short list of what to tell and ask your dentist.

Tell your dentist

Your dental health.   Disclose any unnatural tooth issues with your dentist. It might be a sensitive tooth, tooth ache, or even lumps inside your mouth.

You have bad breath. Remember that dentists wear surgical masks and perhaps cannot smell your breath. It is a good idea to communicate this problem,as it might be a sign of bacteria build-up.

Your overall health. Inform your dentist if you have been diagnosed with any illness or taking any medicines----whether prescription or over the counter.  There are certain diseases that may seem to be irrelevant to your mouth but still need a different approach towards dental treatments.

You’re pregnant. As soon as you know that you are with child, tell your dentist this news as there might be x-ray procedures which might be bad for your baby.

Your fears. Many people, especially children, often fear going to dental clinics. However, with the latest techniques, the dental equipment that you once feared now has a painless counterpart. Explore with your dentist how you can address these fears.

Ask your dentist

What you can do to improve the health of your teeth and gums?

What you can do to prevent further complications?

What you should tell your family doctor about?

What treatment is necessary and what are optional?

What your mouth looks like, is it healthy?

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Dr. Cecilia Lontoc DMD is one of the best dentists in Torrance. For more information or to schedule your dental checkup, please call (310) 782-6155  or visit our website at www.cecilialontocdmd.com