Month: April 2014

Learn about Zirconia Dental Crowns

A dental crown is considered a restoration. Designed to completely surround a damaged tooth or dental implant, dental crowns are affixed to the remaining tooth structure or titanium post using dental cement. Over the years, a large variety of materials have been used for fabricating dental crowns. Some materials proved more successful than others, but… Read more »

Correcting Tied Tongues and Gaps in Teeth

Some dentists focus their practice of providing basic preventive and restorative dental care, potentially adding a few cosmetic services to their list. Dr. Hofkes in Cerritos, CA is a surgery specialist, but still provides a comprehensive list of dental services ranging from corrective to cosmetic. Common oral surgeries include removal of wisdom teeth, biopsies to remove… Read more »

The Debate over Silver Amalgam Fillings

For years, experts have heatedly discussed the use of silver amalgam dental fillings. Somewhat misleadingly named, silver amalgam contains far more mercury than it does silver, and mercury has been linked to a number of serious health concerns. The issue is far from settled, and the debate will most likely continue to rage for years…. Read more »

Cosmetic Dentistry: Veneers 101

Cosmetic dentistry may be the ideal solution to correct your cosmetic dental issues, and porcelain veneers are among the most popular cosmetic dentistry options. Perhaps images of AARP ads, where an older couple with teeth so white they look fake pop into your mind as you consider the word “veneers;” and that may not initially… Read more »

Gum Disease Linked to the Immune System

Have you been told by your dentist that you have signs of gum disease? Periodontal (gum) disease affects nearly 80% of people in the United States. Early symptoms include mild things such as puffy gums or scant bleeding when brushing and flossing. As the condition becomes increasingly severe, side effects become more major such as… Read more »

Do You Have Dry Socket?

Alveolar osteitis, better known as dry socket, is an uncomfortable dental condition deriving from an oral surgery, called tooth extraction. After a tooth is extracted, a blood clot forms in the socket as a part of the body’s healing process. The clot develops as a protective layer for underlying bone and nerves, and it is the… Read more »

Oral Cancer Testing Improvements on the Horizon

We recently spoke about oral cancer treatment options. Fortunately, only five to 35% of mouth lesions end up with a malignant diagnosis. It’s easy to see why sores, bumps, and abnormal spots in your mouth are often overlooked as no cause of concern. There is a fine line between proactivity regarding your oral health versus… Read more »

The Role of the Oral Biopsy

When the doctor finds an unexplained patch of abnormal cells such as a white patch or a bump, the doctor will recommend a waiting period of two weeks to monitor the area or lesion.  Lesions that are caused by local trauma, infection, or inflammation may improve on their own.  For lesions that persist for two… Read more »

How Does One Treat Oral Cancer?

Each year, over 43, 250 people are diagnosed with oral cancer. Of these, around half will pass away within five years. Why are oral cancer mortality rates so high? The fact is most people are not diagnosed until the late stages of the disease. However, with screenings during regular checkups, the disease can be diagnosed… Read more »

Quiz: The Importance of Dental Imaging

At Cerritos Dental Surgery, we perform an array of necessary surgical procedures. Often, dental surgery is vital for ensuring overall health and smile appearance. As part of our approach to oral surgery, we employ the latest technology. With dental imaging, we can diagnose your oral health issues and start the treatment process.