(323) 922-6016

Family Dentistry

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Dentist Silver Lake Los Angeles CA

“Tooth worms” are the cause of tooth decay. That was the headline of a Sumerian text from around 5,000 B.C.E. Fortunately, the dental industry has evolved since then and we know “tooth worms” don’t exist. Here’s how dentistry has evolved into the comfortable, safe, and beneficial science of today shared by our 90039 dentist. 

In the Beginning 

Did you know that the ancient Egyptians had designated doctors for teeth? Evidence has been uncovered suggesting the Chinese used acupuncture to treat pain associated with tooth decay as early as 2700 B.C.E. 

Additionally, in 500 B.C.E., Hippocrates and Aristotle wrote of treating teeth and oral diseases by using sterilization procedures and red-hot wires. They also spoke of using these red-hot wires to stabilize jaw fractures and bind loose teeth.  

The Visionary Thoughts of the 1600s-1700s 

According to the Academy of General Dentistry, the 1600s and 1700s were a gold mine of innovation in the dental world. In 1695, Charles Allen published the first ever English dental textbook entitled The Operator of Teeth. In the book, he advises using a homemade toothpaste from powdered coal, rose-water, and “dragon’s blood” to keep teeth clean and white. Allen also suggests using dog’s teeth for transplants and even references wisdom teeth in his book. 

In the 18th century, Pierre Fauchard was well ahead of his time in the medical practice when his master work The Surgeon Dentist was published. For the first time, dentistry was described as a modern profession. Some notable highlights in the book include sugar being the cause of dental caries (cavities), braces being used to correct teeth position, and the concept of a dentist’s chair light.  

The Progressive 1800s 

The discoveries and inventions of the 1800s were significant. In 1816, Auguste Taveau developed the first form of dental fillings made out of silver coins and mercury. In 1840, Horace Wells demonstrated the use of nitrous oxide to sedate patients and Thomas Morton employed the use of ether anesthesia for surgery. 

That same year, Horace Hayden and Chapin Harris boosted modern dentistry by opening the first dental school, inventing the modern doctorate of dental surgery, and starting the first dental society. By the end of the 1800’s, porcelain inlays, the first mechanized dental drill, and the toothpaste tube had all been invented.  

Scientific Advancement of the 1900s 

The scientific development of the 1900s gave birth to some amazing advancements in the dental industry. Electric drills became available due to the invention of electricity. In 1907, precision case fillings made by a “lost wax” casting machine was invented to fill cavities, and Novocain was introduced into US dental offices. 

In 1955, Michael Buonocore described the method of tooth bonding to repair cracked enamel on teeth. Years later, the first fully-reclining dental chair is introduced to put patients and dentists at ease.  By the 1990s, “invisible” braces were introduced, along with the first at-home tooth bleaching system.  

What Will the Future of Dentistry Hold? 

Today, dental professionals are investigating the links between oral health and overall health. The use of gene-mediated therapeutics to alter the genetic structure of teeth to increase resistance to tooth decay is receiving attention. Some researchers believe that there may be a way to grow a new tooth structure around weakened enamel. Only time will tell what the future of dentistry will bring, but our office is dedicated to seeking the most effective modern technologies as they arise.  

Schedule your visit to our Silver Lake Los Angeles, CA dental office and experience what modern dentistry can do for you.

Silverlake Dental Group
Phone: (323) 922-6016
2390 Glendale Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90039
by
Silver Lake Los Angeles dentist, dentist in Silver Lake Los Angeles

The food children eat affects their long term oral health. Some foods have nutrients teeth need. Others are full of acids and sugars that are harmful to teeth. With so many unhealthy food choices being marketed to children every day, it is vital that you take a stand. Offer fun, healthy snacks and model the better food choices you want your kids to make. 

Offer healthy snack choices. Kids should have a well-balanced and nutritional diet. This not only promotes overall health but also helps build a strong healthy smile. Nutrition is an important part of oral health. Teaching your kids about eating healthy and limiting sugary foods will help foster a balanced diet from an early age. This will form habits that will result in a lifetime of strong teeth and better overall health. 

Have fun with snacks. Promote a nutritious diet by getting creative with snack choices. If you show your kids that healthy snacks are fun, they will be more likely to eat them. Apple slices with peanut butter, fruit smoothies, and yogurt with granola or fruit are great examples of fun, yet healthy combinations. Remember to avoid soda and sugary drinks. These can leave sugars on teeth and can increase the risk of plaque and tooth decay. Water is always the best solution! Eating a well-balanced lunch and dinner is important as well. Make sure to add a variety of fruits and vegetables to every meal so that your kids become accustomed to them. 

Be a good role model. Children learn habits by following the example set by their parents. Send your kids the right message by eating plenty of fruits and vegetables yourself. Avoid sugary snacks that can cause cavities or gum disease. Be sure to practice good oral hygiene in front of your kids. If you brush and floss after meals and snacks, your kids will follow the example. Consider brushing together with your child to reinforce good brushing skills and habits. Make sure to brush at least twice a day, after breakfast and before bedtime. If it is possible, try to encourage your child to brush after lunch or after sweet snacks. 

Follow up. Don’t forget it is also very important to have regular dental appointments for your child, and model healthy habits by seeing your own Silver Lake dentist regularly. If you have any further questions, feel free to contact our Silver Lake Los Angeles CA dentist for more ideas on how to promote healthy snacking for great long term dental health! 

Silverlake Dental Group
Phone: (323) 922-6016
2390 Glendale Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90039
by
Silver Lake Los Angeles CA dentist, dentist Silver Lake Los Angeles

In our mouths, we have numerous forms of bacteria. Some are helpful and some are harmful. Bacteria in the mouth can be helpful because it helps to sanitize the mouth and breaks down food particles. However, too much bacteria can lead to the development of gum disease which can be damaging to your oral health.   

When the bacteria start to collect in the mouth, it can create a sticky colorless substance known as “plaque” that sticks on to your teeth. If the plaque is not removed during brushing or flossing, the particle can harden and turn into tartar. Over time, plaque and tartar becomes more difficult to remove at home so a professional cleaning with the dentist is important for maintaining your oral health and preventing decay and periodontal (gum) disease. 

The longer the plaque and tartar remain on the teeth, the more harm they can cause to your oral health. Eventually plaque and tartar will create a mild form of gum disease called Gingivitis, which is an inflammation of the gum tissue. Ideally, routine cleanings and proper oral care can prevent gingivitis from developing. Once gum disease is prevalent, only your Dentist in Silver Lake Los Angeles can help to maintain the disease and prevent it from progressing.  

In cases where gingivitis is not treated, it can then advance to periodontal disease. With periodontal disease, the inflammation now affects the soft tissue (gums) and the tooth and if left unattended, it can cause the tooth to loosen or fall out.  

Having periodontal disease also can affect your overall bodily health. In many studies, there have been connections with periodontal disease to diabetes and heart disease. It is important to regularly see the dentist in Silver Lake Los Angeles for a routine, professional cleaning and examination to prevent gum disease. 

With periodontal disease, your dentist has solutions to help you prevent and maintain gum disease. A common solution for controlling periodontal disease is a deep dental cleaning, which can be performed by your Silver Lake dentist or certified hygienist. Contact our Silver Lake Los Angeles dentist to schedule your next visit today.  

Silverlake Dental Group
Phone: (323) 922-6016
2390 Glendale Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90039
by
Dentist in 90039

The American Dental Association recommends all patients to schedule routine six-month check-up exams. This is particularly important for growing children.

At your visit, we will screen your child’s mouth for tooth decay and gum disease. Regular professional dental cleanings are essential for a healthy mouth. During your child’s dental cleaning, we will gently remove any buildup of plaque or tartar to help prevent tooth decay.

During this visit, our team will spend time discussing proper brushing technique and oral hygiene with your child. Depending on your child’s age, we may also teach them about the correct use of floss and mouthwash. Our team members are friendly, patient, and great with kids, and will answer every question.

We may recommend that fluoride be applied to the teeth as part of your child’s treatment. Topical fluoride is used to strengthen enamel and make teeth more resistant to tooth decay.

Sealants are highly effective in preventing tooth decay and cavities on your molars and premolars. These areas are the most susceptible to cavities due to the anatomized grooves.

Typically, children get sealants on their permanent molars and premolars as soon as these teeth come in. These sealants can protect the teeth through the cavity-prone years of ages 6 to 14. However, adults without decay or fillings in their molars can also benefit from sealants.

The process of applying sealants is easy and fast. The application steps are as follows:

  • Your child’s teeth are thoroughly cleaned
  • The teeth are dried
  • A liquid solution is put on the chewing surfaces of the teeth
  • The solution is cured using a special curing light

Sealants act as a barrier and protect the enamel from plaque and acids. They may last for several years before a reapplication is needed. As long as the sealant remains intact, the tooth surface will be protected from decay.

Sealants are not a substitute for brushing your teeth. It is important to maintain proper oral hygiene and keep up with professional dental cleanings. Also, sealants do not protect between the teeth, so it is essential to continue to floss daily.

Without proper dental care, children are susceptible to oral decay. Healthy smiles should not stop at our dental office. Our experienced dentist in 90039 educate you and your child on how to make good food choices and how to properly brush and floss at home.

Our expert dentist and knowledgeable team have the experience and qualifications to care for your child’s teeth, gums and mouth throughout various stages of childhood. For more information or to request an appointment, contact our dental office in Silver Lake, Los Angeles today.

Silverlake Dental Group
Phone: (323) 922-6016
2390 Glendale Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90039
by
90039 Dentist

Your smile is one of the first things a person will notice when you meet.  If you would like to improve your smile with a simple procedure, teeth whitening may be a great option for you, especially if you have stained, dull or discolored teeth. Our dental office is providing teeth whitening services to new and existing patients.

Regardless of how well you care for your teeth, over time, discoloration will occur.  The main causes of stained teeth are genetics, antibiotics, tobacco and certain foods. As we age, our teeth darken as well. While preventing tooth discoloration is nearly impossible, our experienced team can help reverse the effects of discoloration by helping to create a whiter and brighter smile.

Whether it’s an in-office treatment or at-home treatment, the principles of teeth whitening are the same.  A special whitening agent is applied to the teeth in order to bleach stains and brighten your smile. Our expert dentist in 90039 will discuss your whitening needs and goals with you to determine which option is best for you.

In-office teeth whitening is the quickest method to a brighter, whiter smile.  With the supervision of an experienced dental professional, a stronger bleaching solution can be used than with at-home kits. Optimal results are achieved much faster with the professional whitening treatment, and in many ways the results are much better given the nature of the bleaching agents that are used. On average, patients find they appear up to ten years younger just by restoring the bright, white smile of their youth.

During a professional teeth whitening treatment, we will first clean the teeth.  They will apply a whitening agent to your teeth, carefully avoiding your gums and soft tissue.  Once applied, a laser light will be directed at the teeth to expedite the process.  For maximum results, the process may be repeated more than once.

If a visit to our office for professional whitening isn’t an option for you, at-home treatment may provide the whitening you need. While you will find a vast variety of at-home teeth whitening products on the market, including whitening toothpastes, over-the-counter gels, rinses, strips, trays and more, we can fit you with custom-made whitening trays that will more accurately fit to your teeth for a more even whitening result.

At-home teeth whitening results are less dramatic compared to those achieved at the dentist. While at-home teeth whitening is easy to use, it is not recommended if your teeth or gums are sensitive.  If you are looking to brighten your smile and look ten years younger, contact our dental office in Los Angeles, CA for more information or to schedule a consultation today.

Silverlake Dental Group
Phone: (323) 922-6016
2390 Glendale Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90039
by
Dentist Silver Lake Los Angeles CA

As a parent, the best way to help ensure your child has a lifetime of healthy teeth is to help them establish great dental hygiene habits as they grow.

Here are some useful tips from our dentist in 90039 for keeping your child engaged by making dental hygiene fun:

Pick out a special toothbrush.

One great way to keep your child excited about brushing is to allow him or her to choose their own toothbrush in a favorite color or branded with a favorite cartoon character. Child-size soft-bristled brushes come in a wide variety of options designed to make your child like their toothbrush.

Choose children’s toothpaste.

Another great option is to use a toothpaste that is designed for kids. While adults generally prefer the fresh mouth taste of a minty toothpaste, many children find mint to be too powerful a flavor. This can make brushing unpleasant or even painful to sensitive taste buds. Instead, let your child choose a children’s toothpaste. There are many options available in a variety of soft mint, fruity, and bubble gum flavors. It is much easier to keep your child brushing for a full two minutes when their toothpaste tastes good.

Use a timer.

Two minutes can seem like a long time to a child. It can be very difficult for your child to try to estimate or count how long to brush without some kind of visual aid. You can help your child stay more engaged and ensure a full two minutes of brushing by using a timer. Choices range from a small sand timer your child can flip over, to a manual stopwatch with buttons to press, or even an app on a phone or tablet to time digitally (if your child is old enough). By letting your child take control of the timer, they can be more confident and more engaged in their brushing.

Brush together.

A parent is the first and strongest role model for their child. Brushing together can help your child model your great brushing technique, which will improve their own. Additionally, brushing together emphasizes to your child that brushing is important. When your child sees that you take dental hygiene seriously, they are likely to follow suit.

For more tips on making dental hygiene fun for your child, contact our dental office in Los Angeles, CA.

Silverlake Dental Group
Phone: (323) 922-6016
2390 Glendale Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90039
by
Dentist 90039

Every time you stop in to visit your dentist, you are asked, “Do you floss regularly?” This is because flossing is instrumental in maintaining a healthy, beautiful smile. It helps to remove the plaque that brushing alone can’t reach. While we all know brushing is critical to your oral health, it is important to understand the benefits of flossing daily.

Flossing is a great way to protect your gums. When you floss, your dentist in 90039 recommends also working between your gums and teeth in order to remove plaque within between your gums. This will prevent the accumulation of plaque that eventually hardens into tartar. Tartar buildup can cause gum disease, which is the leading cause of tooth loss. While you can remove plaque from your teeth and gums, tartar is much stronger, meaning that it requires a trip to your dentist in order to remove it. Simple, preventative care such as flossing regularly can help to ward off tartar and to keep all of your teeth.

Flossing can also provide financial benefits. This preventative care can reduce more severe problems down the road. Regular visits to the dentist for a dental cleaning is a lot more cost effective than needing emergency care due to a lack of flossing. Flossing is a great way to stop the problems before they even start.

Flossing is also beneficial to your overall health. By maintaining great oral health, you are able to prevent other systemic problems such as heart disease and respiratory disease.

Contact our dental office in Los Angeles, CA today to schedule your next appointment and stay on top of your oral health.

Silverlake Dental Group
Phone: (323) 922-6016
2390 Glendale Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90039
by
Dentist 90039

Your toothbrush is an important part of your daily oral care routine. Choosing the right toothbrush can help you keep your teeth and gums healthy. Today, there are many options available, and electric toothbrushes are very popular. Both manual and electric toothbrushes are made to remove plaque, bacteria, and prevent cavities. Knowing the benefits of an electric toothbrush can help you decide if they are right for you.

What Are the Benefits of an Electric Tooth Brush?

Power

An electric toothbrush is battery powered and does not require you to manually brush for at least two minutes. They do the work for you, and can really reach areas that a manual brush cannot. Some models even include a timer so you know exactly how long to brush. Electric toothbrushes can cover areas quicker and easier compared to a manual brush.

Effort

Less effort is required with an electric toothbrush. Electric toothbrushes clear away bacteria faster and easier compared to a manual tooth brush.

Plaque and Bacteria

Electric toothbrushes can remove bacteria and plaque easier and faster compared to a manual toothbrush. This makes brushing easier, and studies have found that those that use an electric toothbrush have less plaque and bacteria buildup over time. The bristles of an electric toothbrush gently remove plaque and bacteria without wearing down your gums or enamel.

Easy To Use

Electric toothbrushes are really easy to use, and can help people who have a hard time brushing or moving their hands. When brushing you simply move the brush from tooth to tooth, and this makes the process quick and efficient without having to manually brush each tooth.

Help Children Keep Good Oral Hygiene Habits

Electric toothbrushes also help children keep their teeth clean and free of plaque. There are electric brushes that are smaller and designed specifically for children. They make sounds, and come with a timer to make brushing fun and easy.

Is an Electric Toothbrush Right for Me?

Electric toothbrushes are a great tool that help to remove bacteria and plaque from your teeth. They are a great alternative to manual toothbrushes, and can make your oral care routine easier. Electric toothbrushes do cost a bit more, but many people say they are worth the investment. Whatever brush you choose, it is always important to brush and floss daily to keep your teeth and mouth looking and feeling great.

Interested in Finding Out More?

If you are interested in finding out if an electric toothbrush is right for you, contact Silverlake Dental Group. Our staff is happy to discuss the benefits of an electric toothbrush, and review which brands we recommend. Your oral health is important, and using the right tools at home can help you keep your teeth and mouth healthy.

To schedule your appointment with us contact Silverlake Dental Group, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you!

by
Dentist 90039

Dry mouth is also known as xerostomia, and this happens when the salivary glands do not produce enough saliva in the mouth. In some cases, dry mouth is temporary, and can be caused by dehydration. In other cases, dry mouth is a chronic problem, and many struggle with this issue. Dry mouth can be caused by medical conditions such as diabetes, or can be caused by an infected salivary gland.

When we do not have enough saliva production this can cause oral health issues. Saliva plays an important role in our oral health, and helps to protect our teeth and gums from acids or erosion. The saliva washes away bacteria or food, and keeps our teeth and mouth healthy.

What Issues Can Dry Mouth Cause?

Dry mouth can cause many issues including gum disease, tooth decay, staining, and erosion of enamel. When bacteria are not washed away, and plaque and tartar collect, this can cause gum disease, and in turn this increases the risk of tooth decay and cavities. If not treated gum disease can cause tooth deterioration, or even tooth loss.

When your saliva production is low the bacteria and acids stay on your teeth longer, and this can lead to tooth decay or enamel erosion. If the acid and plaque levels are high, your teeth can become discolored or stained. It is always important to attend your regular dental exams and cleaning appointments to ensure your teeth and mouth are healthy, and do not have any decay.

How Can I Treat Dry Mouth?

The good news is there are ways to treat dry mouth and restore the health of your teeth and gums. Depending on the level of damage will determine what treatment is required. Restoration options include fillings, crowns, or gum treatments.

Tips To Prevent Dry Mouth

  • Stay hydrated and drink plenty of water
  • Use an over-the-counter saliva treatment or substitute
  • Use a humidifier while sleeping to increase moisture in the air
  • Chew sugar-free gum to help saliva production
  • Stay on top of your oral health routine, and brush and floss daily to prevent plaque and bacteria buildup

Ready To Find Out More?

If you are suffering from dry mouth, and have concerns about your oral health, we encourage you to contact Silverlake Dental Group. Scheduling a consultation with our team is the first step towards healthy teeth and gums. Our doctors will perform a thorough exam, and provide treatment recommendations that work for you. Dry mouth can lead to serious issues, and should always be addressed right away.

To schedule your appointment, please contact Silverlake Dental Group, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you.

by
Silver Lake Los Angeles Dentist

Cavities are always something we try to avoid with brushing and flossing each day. You may notice you get cavities frequently and others don’t. This doesn’t seem fair, but there are other factors that play into keeping your teeth free of decay that you may not realize. There are ways to reduce your risk for cavities outside of brushing and flossing regularly.

Why Are Some Prone to Cavities More Than Others?

  • Diet – Reducing the amount of sugar you eat or drink can help prevent cavities. Your chance of getting cavities increases if you eat or drink foods with a high amount of sugar.
  • Gum Recession – If you suffer from gum disease and your gums are receding, the root of the tooth is exposed. Bacteria can reach the root area of the tooth and cavities can develop more easily.
  • Dry Mouth – If you tend to have a dry mouth your risk for decay increases. We need saliva to wash away bacteria in our mouths.
  • Genetics – Unfortunately some people are born with a tendency to develop cavities more frequently than others. This is because some people are more susceptible to a certain type of cavity causing bacteria.

How Can I Reduce My Risk for Cavities?

There are things you can do to help reduce your risk for cavities. This doesn’t mean you will never have a cavity again, but it does mean you are changing your habits, and putting forth a good effort to try and prevent decay from developing.

  • Regular Visits to Your Dentist – Make sure you attend your regular visits to your dentist. These exams help to identify potential cavities, and allow the dentist to get in front of issues before they become worse.
  • Reduce Sugars in Your Diet– Try and stay away from foods or drinks that are high in sugar.
  • Keep Up With Oral Hygiene – Stay on top of your oral hygiene with brushing and flossing at least twice a day. This will help prevent plaque buildup that causes decay.
  • Use a Toothpaste With Fluoride – Using a toothpaste that contains fluoride can help prevent tooth decay.
  • Use Mouthwash – Mouthwash can help rinse away bacteria, and if the wash contains fluoride this can help prevent cavities.

Knowing what you can do to help prevent cavities can help you avoid many trips to the dentist. Taking care of our teeth is very important, and can help avoid dental issues. Always practice good oral hygiene habits to keep your teeth and mouth feeling great.

At Silverlake Dental Group, we discuss what patients are doing at home to help prevent decay. Our staff provides tips and tricks to help our patients keep their teeth looking great. Taking care of your teeth and gums is important, and can avoid serious issues from developing. If you have not been to our office for your regular dental exam, we encourage you to schedule your appointment.

Ready to Schedule Your Appointment?

If you are looking for a dentist near you for your regular dental exam, Silverlake Dental Group is here to help. Our office has state of the art technology and equipment, and we always provide the highest level of service to all of our patients.

To schedule your appointment with us, contact Silverlake Dental Group, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you.

Contact Us

Feel free to contact us for any of your dental needs!

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2390 Glendale Blvd,
Los Angeles, CA 90039

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(323) 922-6016

Email

Josh@SilverlakeDentalGroup.Com

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