Cosmetic Dentistry: Veneers 101

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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 appeal to you.

However, there are some things you should know about porcelain veneers that may convince you that these are a great option, if you’re the right candidate.

What Porcelain Veneers Are For

Dental laminates, commonly known as porcelain veneers, are ultra-thin porcelain shells – about .5 to .6 millimeters thick — that are bonded on the front surfaces of teeth. The purpose of porcelain veneers is to improve the appearance of teeth, and they can correct numerous cosmetic issues, including: (more…)

filed under: Cosmetic Dentistry, Patient Education, Porcelain Veneers

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Gum Disease Linked to the Immune System

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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 periodontal pockets, loose teeth, and eventual tooth loss. Porphyromonas gingivalis (P. gingivalis) are the bacteria in our oral cavities which cause gum disease. Dr. Hofkes in Cerritos, CA will explain a research study which connects gum disease to the body’s overall immune system in what dentists term the oral-systemic condition.

Bacteria which Cause Gum Disease

Details of a research study performed at the Department of Pediatric Dentistry at the University of Alabama in Birmingham was published in the Journal of Leukocyte Biology. Scientists zeroed in on P. gingivalis. These particular germs can manipulate your immune system so (more…)

filed under: Gum Disease, Patient Education

Do You Have Dry Socket?

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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 foundation for future growth of bone and surrounding soft tissues. If this clot is dislodged, or dissolves prior to healing, a dry socket occurs. (more…)

filed under: Dry Socket, Extracting Wisdom Teeth, Patient Education, Tooth Extractions

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Oral Cancer Testing Improvements on the Horizon

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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 running to the dentist every time you have a canker sore. Early detection significantly improves oral cancer survival rates. That’s why an exciting gene test developed by researchers from Queen Mary, University of London has created a buzz in the world of dentistry. Detecting pre-cancerous cells in even the most benign looking lesions could make a huge difference in raising oral cancer morbidity rates.

Oral Cancer Testing

The research study which took place in the UK and Norway involved 299 patients who gave tissue specimens. Mouth cancer afflicts over 6,200 people in the United Kingdom every year. This equivocates over 500,000 people worldwide. Oral cancer rates are on the rise, with an expected statistic of over one million cases annually (more…)

filed under: Oral Cancer, Oral Cancer Treatment

The Role of the Oral Biopsy

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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 weeks or longer, he will order an oral biopsy.  An oral biopsy is a procedure in which the doctor will remove a small tissue sample to be examined under the microscope.  Oral biopsies will indicate if the lesion or bump has pre-cancerous or cancerous cells in it, guiding the doctor’s diagnosis and treatment. (more…)

filed under: Oral Biopsies, Oral Cancer, Oral Pathology

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How Does One Treat Oral Cancer?

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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 and oral cancer treatment started right away.

(more…)

filed under: Oral Biopsies, Oral Cancer, Oral Cancer Symptoms, Oral Cancer Treatment

FAQs: What is Oral Pathology?

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How often do you have a checkup? Many adults assume a checkup is a very minor procedure and one they can afford to miss. In fact, a checkup allows your dentist to watch for signs of dental disease, including gum disease and oral cancer. At Cerritos Dental Surgery, we offer our patients the latest in oral pathology to identify and address dental disease.

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filed under: Dental Technology, Gum Disease, Oral Biopsies, Oral Cancer, Oral Cancer Symptoms, Oral Cancer Treatment, Oral Health, Oral Pathology, Oral Surgery

Are Dental Implants the Most Cost Effective Option for Missing Teeth?

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The effects of tooth loss can be devastating for adults of all ages.   Dental implants can restore your missing teeth and your confidence.   If you are considering restorative treatment, dental implant cost may be your biggest concern.   At our Cerritos, CA practice, we offer high quality implants that are a great investment in your continuing dental health.   A recent study, published in the International Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Implants in 2013 indicates that compared to other restorative options, the durability of dental implants may make them a more economical treatment in the long run.  Regardless of the reason for tooth loss (gum disease, tooth decay, etc.), replacing your missing teeth with dental implants offers a number of benefits over traditional prosthetics such as bridges and dentures. Dental implants provide a permanent replacement to natural missing teeth. (more…)

filed under: Dental Implants, Dental Prosthetics, Missing Teeth