You're sitting back in the dental chair, and they drape that heavy lead apron over your chest. It's a familiar routine, but a thought still pops into your head every single time, "Are dental x-rays safe?" You're not alone in asking this, as it's a common and very smart question.
You are right to question anything that involves radiation. Let's look ...
You have been there before. You are in a conversation, maybe leaning in to share a secret or laugh at a joke. Suddenly, you see the other person subtly lean back. That little moment of panic hits you. Is it my breath? The fear of having bad breath can be genuinely stressful. It makes you feel self-conscious and can hurt ...
You've probably heard that brushing and flossing are good for your teeth. But have you ever considered that your toothbrush might be one of the best tools for protecting your heart? The connection between oral health and heart disease is stronger and more significant than most people realize.
You're not just fighting cavities and bad breath when you take care of ...
You've probably been brushing your teeth since you were a little kid. It feels like second nature, something you do on autopilot every morning and night. But what if you were never taught how to do it correctly?
Many of us just picked up the habit without formal instruction. A quick scrub might feel like it's getting the job done, but ...
Healthy living requires a whole body, or holistic, approach to health. That includes your smile. At the practice of Ricardo Suarez, DDS, we believe that your oral health is directly connected to your overall wellness. Dr. Suarez and his team provide comprehensive dental care to help West Covina families maintain healthy teeth and gums. But your teeth aren’t the ...
That clicking in your jaw is more than just an annoyance. It is a constant reminder of the pain, headaches, and jaw tension that never seem to go away. You have probably tried night guards and soft foods, but the ache remains, which probably brought you to research botox for TMJ. It sounds strange at first, using a common cosmetic ...
That feeling in your stomach when your child's dental appointment is coming up? Yeah, we get it. You want them to have healthy teeth and a happy smile for life, which requires consistent oral care. But the thought of a dentist visit can bring on big worries for little ones, impacting their overall oral health if visits are avoided. It's ...
Ever wonder about that fuzzy feeling on your teeth if you skip brushing? That's likely plaque, a common concern in family dentistry. But what happens when that plaque sticks around too long, and leads to tartar buildup? Understanding the plaque vs tartar distinction is fundamental for your oral health journey and can affect your overall well-being, potentially even aspects like ...
Bone grafts in dentistry might sound intimidating, but they are a frequent and beneficial procedure for many patients. If you've been wondering, "what is a bone graft dental procedure?" then you've come to the right source for information. This article will explain the essentials of dental bone grafts, helping you understand this common dental treatment.
A dental bone graft is a ...
Are you sometimes hesitant to share your grin? Do you dream of a smile that truly reflects your inner happiness? You're not alone if you've thought about changing how your smile looks; many people explore options to improve their teeth, and a smile makeover could be the journey you're looking for. This process can be genuinely life-altering, helping you feel ...
Are you thinking about adult orthodontics? You are certainly not the only one. A growing number of adults are making the positive choice to enhance their smiles and improve their overall oral health later in life. This decision for adult orthodontics can seem significant, yet it frequently leads to remarkable and satisfying results. You will discover what to anticipate ...
Thinking about your dental check-up, an oral cancer screening might not be the first thing that comes to mind. But, this simple check is very important for your health. You'll learn why an oral cancer screening can be a lifesaver and what it truly involves.
Many people feel a little anxious hearing the words "cancer screening." That's completely understandable. We ...
Understanding diabetes is a major undertaking, and it's important to also consider your dental health, including your teeth and gums. Many folks don't realize how connected oral health and diabetes truly are. This connection is super important, and we're going to talk about how oral health and diabetes affect each other.
It can feel like one more thing to worry about, ...
Feeling a little worried about your smile? Maybe you have heard the term "bone loss," and it sounds serious. It is something to pay attention to because your jaw bone is the foundation for your natural teeth. Understanding this type of bone loss can help you protect your pearly whites for years to come; you will learn what causes it ...
Thinking about a brighter, whiter smile? You're certainly not alone. Many of us dream of pearly whites, and professional teeth whitening can seem like a fantastic option to achieve that brilliant look. It's a common cosmetic dental procedure that many people consider to improve their smile's appearance, effectively turning dull or yellow teeth into a more confident feature. So, you're ...
That sharp, sudden twinge when you bite into something cold or hot is an unwelcome sensation. It's a feeling many of us know all too well. This discomfort is often tooth sensitivity, a common issue that can significantly spoil your enjoyment of everyday foods and drinks.
But what exactly causes this teeth sensitive reaction, and more importantly, what can you do ...
Have you looked in the mirror lately and thought your teeth seem a bit longer? Or maybe you've felt a new twinge of sensitivity when enjoying a cold drink. These can be early hints of tooth recession, a common dental issue that many people face. Understanding tooth recession is the first step towards taking control of your oral health.
It's natural ...
That little twinge when you sip something cold. Or maybe a nagging ache you can't quite ignore. These could be whispers from your teeth hinting at a common problem: tooth decay.
It affects almost everyone at some point, but knowing more about it can really help you protect your smile and prevent tooth damage. Dealing with tooth decay early makes treatment ...
Crowns are a big deal in dentistry. They're not just for royalty anymore. These tooth-shaped caps can save your smile and boost your confidence.
But what exactly are dental crowns? How do they work? And when might you need one?
Let's explore dental crowns thoroughly. We'll cover everything from what they are to how they're placed. By the end, you'll have a ...
Tooth-colored fillings have become a popular choice for many people looking to fix cavities effectively. They offer a natural look because they blend seamlessly with your smile, unlike older metal options. But what exactly are these dental fillings made of, how does the filling procedure work, and are they the ideal solution for your specific dental care needs?
Let's explore the ...
Ever catch a glimpse of your smile and notice it's not as bright as you remember? If you have concerns with a tooth stain issue, you're not alone. Many people experience tooth stains, teeth discoloration, or changes in their smile's brilliance over time.
Maybe you brush regularly and avoid sugary treats, but tooth discoloration can still occur. This is because tooth ...
Feeling a little self-conscious about your smile? You are not alone. Many people wish they could change something about their teeth, whether it's the color, shape, or alignment; cosmetic dentistry offers ways to achieve the smile you desire. Pursuing cosmetic dentistry can feel like a big step, but understanding your options is the first part of the journey toward enhancing ...
Are you waking up with jaw pain or headaches? Maybe you are noticing your teeth becoming more sensitive. You may be grinding or clenching your teeth at night, so learning about the importance of night guards can make all the difference. Night guards can provide much-needed relief and protect your teeth from damage.
The goal here is to understand why these ...
Have you ever felt lost in a confusing search for an "orthodontist near me"? The process of aligning your teeth can seem overwhelming. Finding the right orthodontist doesn't have to be. It's about finding the right expertise and care for your needs.
This blog post offers guidance on how to find the best "orthodontist near me". You'll discover strategies for obtaining ...
Cavities are a common dental problem, affecting people of all ages. But what if you could significantly reduce your risk of getting them? Cavity prevention is more achievable than many realize, and it's crucial for maintaining a healthy smile.
Before diving into prevention, let's understand cavity formation. Cavities are holes in your teeth resulting from
Wisdom teeth removal is a common rite of passage, often occurring between the ages of 17 and 25. It's something almost everyone goes through, but rarely do people talk about it. Your dentist may recommend this surgical procedure even if your wisdom teeth aren't currently causing dental problems.
Wisdom teeth removal is meant to solve issues, but ...
Ever wondered if you're flossing correctly? Many people are taught to floss, but often miss the crucial c-shape flossing technique. This method is a significant advancement in oral health, designed to remove plaque and food particles efficiently.
C-shape flossing is essential because it's far more effective than traditional methods. It offers a deeper clean between teeth and along the ...
It’s the worst feeling when you’re enjoying a meal and suddenly a twinge in your gums interrupts. Whether it's a dull ache or a sharp, throbbing sensation, sore gums are a sign that something might be amiss with your oral health. It can be a sign of simple irritation or the early stages of gum disease.
This guide ...
Facing the decision of tooth replacement can be overwhelming. You might be weighing your options between bridges vs partials, and feeling unsure of what will happen next, especially if you are already prone to anxiety.
It is very likely that you want the best fitting, most comfortable option to get through your daily life without disruption. It is totally natural to ...
If you're facing a tooth extraction, knowing how to manage your aftercare is essential for a smooth and speedy recovery. Proper tooth extraction aftercare not only minimizes discomfort but also helps prevent complications.
This guide addresses key questions about tooth extraction aftercare, offering practical advice. We will cover all things from managing pain to maintaining oral hygiene, and adjusting your diet ...
We've all been there, right? Maybe you were enjoying some crunchy popcorn, or maybe an accident happened while playing contact sports. Suddenly you feel a new, rough, jagged edge where there wasn't one in your mouth, the telltale sign of a chipped tooth.
It is easy to panic, and maybe even feel ashamed that something happened to a tooth, a chipped ...
You might have heard the terms "prophylaxis" and "periodontal maintenance" used during dental visits, but maybe you weren't sure about the distinctions. Many ask about this, prophylaxis vs periodontal maintenance, what is the actual difference? It turns out it’s actually pretty vital for your long-term oral health to receive the proper treatment.
Let's explore these two types of dental care. The ...
Maintaining a healthy smile goes beyond brushing and flossing. Regular dental checkups are essential for preventing future issues and catching potential problems early. Skipping these visits can lead to more extensive and costly treatments, so let's discuss why prioritizing regular dental checkups is so important for maintaining healthy teeth.
This isn't just about clean teeth. It's about protecting your overall health ...
You're at our West Covina dental office, and the hygienist starts calling out numbers. It sounds like a code, but it's actually periodontal probing. This simple procedure is vital for assessing your periodontal health and plays a crucial role in detecting and managing periodontal diseases.
Nearly half of American adults over 30 have some ...
Stepping into a dentist's office often brings familiar memories. There's the whir of the drill, the scent of antiseptic, and the typical two-dimensional X-rays. But dental cone beam CT is a technology that takes dental imaging into the 21st century.
Dental cone beam computed tomography is revolutionizing how dentists diagnose and treat patients. It offers a view inside your mouth ...
We’ve all been there. You’re at the dentist, and they ask, “So, how often are you flossing?” You mumble something about trying to do it every day, but their raised eyebrow says they’re not convinced. It’s okay, flossing isn’t everyone’s favorite activity. But it’s important for your oral hygiene.
This guide will explore how and why flossing matters. We’ll share tools ...
Imagine a milestone that doesn't get the confetti it deserves. Yes, I'm talking about when to take your child to the dentist. Most parents circle first words or steps on calendars but miss this crucial health step. It's not just about flashing a toothy smile for cute photos; it’s foundational for lifelong oral health.
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry throws ...
Facing a potential root canal treatment can be unsettling. Many people have questions about infected pulp, but hesitate to ask. This post addresses those concerns and provides a clear, comprehensive guide to root canal treatment and endodontic retreatment. We’ll cover everything from what to expect during the procedure to recovery and long-term care.
Root canal treatment, often called ...
Choosing the right dentist can feel like a big decision, and I understand how overwhelming it can be. As a dentist in West Covina, I know how important it is for you to find someone who listens, makes you feel at ease, and truly cares about your health.
The right dentist isn’t just about fixing teeth; it's about building trust and ...
A lot of people are not satisfied with their smile but aren't sure what options exist. No-prep veneers have become increasingly popular as a possible solution to achieve a radiant smile. But are they the right option for every situation? We're about to find out. Let's take an honest look at what no-prep veneers are, their pros and cons, ...
Waking up to a toothbrush covered in pink after brushing isn't just alarming; it's a sign something's not right with your oral health. Yes, we're talking about bleeding gums – that common yet often ignored issue many face but few address head-on. But why do our gums betray us this way? Is it the late-night snack or maybe skipping flossing ...
When considering tooth replacement options, it's important to determine who is not a candidate for dental implants. Dental implants are gaining traction as a go-to option for those with missing teeth, owing to their strength and lifelike look. However, certain health conditions, habits, oral health issues, and medications can disqualify individuals from receiving this treatment.
In this blog post, we ...
Learning how to relieve pain after a teeth cleaning is essential for maintaining a healthy and comfortable oral hygiene routine. Dental cleanings are crucial in preventing gum disease, detecting early tooth decay, and many other oral health issues. Unfortunately, some individuals may experience discomfort or sensitivity following these procedures which further pushes them to postpone their next dental cleaning appointment
In ...