Thursday, May 30, 2013

San Diego Dentist Discusses Invisalign

If you have decided that now is the time to get something done to correct your crooked smile, you should really consider Invisalign. Listed below are some helpful facts to get you on your way to a beautiful new smile.

How do I start the process?
Your first step is to select an experienced Invisalign Provider like Dr. Kitchen of Cosmetic Dentistry of San Diego. Not all dentists are certified to properly use Invisalign, so you should be aware of this fact when choosing your dentist. You want to find a dentist who is thoroughly trained to use Invisalign so your treatment is done properly.

Preliminary Consultation

Your consultation is an important part of the process in determining what the best course of treatment is for you since Invisalign can effectively treat different types of alignment issues from simple to more complex problems.

Customized Treatment Plan
A customized treatment plan begins with x-rays and impressions of your teeth. These will then be used to create a digital 3-D image. Both steps assist your dentist in developing a treatment plan that is specific to your case, including the exact movement of your teeth. You will even be able to see a virtual representation of how your teeth will move with each stage of treatment.

Your Invisalign Aligners
Based on your treatment plan, a series of clear aligners are created specifically for you. These aligners are made of a smooth, comfortable BPA-free plastic that will not irritate your cheeks and gums like traditional metal braces. Wear them throughout the day, and remove them when you eat or to brush and floss your teeth. As you wear each set of aligners, your teeth gently and gradually begin to shift into place. Since they're virtually invisible, most people won't even notice that you are wearing them.

Every two weeks or so, you will move to the next set of aligners that continue to gently move your teeth into the correct position. You will be able to see the results of Invisalign each time you step up to the next set of aligners. Dr. Kitchen of Cosmetic Dentistry for San Diego will schedule appointments at regular intervals to check on your progress. The total straightening process usually takes about a year for adults. For teens, the length of time required for proper alignment is comparable to that of traditional braces. 

Thursday, May 16, 2013

San Diego Dentist Discusses: When Hot and Cold Temperatures Really Hurt


Have you ever taken a sip of a cold beverage, expecting refreshment, only to wince in sharp pain? Has a warm cup of tea been the source of unrelenting toothache? If you’ve experienced any of these symptoms when dealing with temperature, it is likely that you suffer from sensitive teeth. Dr. Kitchen, a San Diego dentist, wants to help you understand why your mouth is reacting to environmental temperature shifts.

There are numerous reasons why people experience sensitivity in this way. More specifically, and usually the most likely culprit, is that the root is exposed at the base of the tooth. It is there that millions of tiny tubes (called dentin), which are connected to nerve endings, are exposed to the elements. Gum recession, teeth grinding, aggressive brushing techniques, and acidic drinks all contribute to exposed gums and ultimately sensitive teeth.

Dr. Kitchen say thats some people don’t realize they’re brushing too hard, thus affecting tooth sensitivity through enamel erosion and gum wear. Your most loved beverage -- coffee, tea, juice, wine, and popular energy drinks -- are also putting the condition of the tooth’s enamel and the dentin in a vulnerable position.

If you’re experiencing severe sensitivity, talk to Dr. Kitechen about bonding the problematic areas. This is essentially a very fine varnish your dentist applies to the tooth. It's not a permanent fix, though. In the meantime, consider brushing gently, reduce your acidic beverage intake, and be aware of any tooth grinding you may be experiencing.

Thursday, May 9, 2013

La Jolla Dentist: Energy Drinks Are Bad For Teeth


Many people believe energy drinks are useful consumable items that get them through the day. However, studies are suggesting that although energy drinks give people a short burst of productivity, they actually contribute to declining oral health.  Many people believe that an energy drink is a healthier alternative to soda and other sugary drinks. Specifically, the study shows that ingredients contained in sports drinks can damage tooth enamel which leads to increased risk of developing cavities.

The ABA led the research team, where 13 “sports” drinks (like gatorade) and 9 “energy” drinks (like Red Bull) were tested for their acidity. They tested six drinks for their effects on tooth enamel and found both types caused damage. Energy drinks, however, were twice as bad. Damaged tooth enamel cannot be fixed.  This study was published in the journal, General Dentistry.

The samples of enamel were immersed in the  test drinks for 15 minutes. The samples were then  to artificial saliva for two hours. This process was repeated four times a day for five days. The beverages were replaced with fresh ones every day. This process was developed in order to simulate real life, since people tend to consume these drinks throughout the day. The research shows that enamel loss was evident after five days of exposure!
If you’re an avid energy drink/sports drink user, then it would be wise to dilute the liquid with water in order to minimize the harmful effects to your teeth. Dr. Kitchen, a La Jolla dentist, suggests discontinuing use of  these beverages as a source of energy and instead, make healthy changes to your sleeping and dietary habits. You’d be surprised to find out that little steps will make you feel healthier, refreshed, and less dependent on stimulants.

Thursday, May 2, 2013

San Diego Dentist Discusses Flossing Excuses


Believe it or not, a recent survey has found that only 49% of Americans floss daily and 10% of Americans don’t floss at all. These rough estimates are quite unfortunate, given howimportant flossing is to your oral hygiene routine. In fact, dentists agree that flossing is more important than brushing in the fight against periodontal disease, which could ultimately lead to tooth loss. People joke about how the only time they floss is when they’re due for their annual check-up. San Diego dentist, Dr. David Kitchen, wants his patients to know that he can tell if you’ve been a long-term flosser or not.

And, he wants you to put an end to your excuses for not flossing regularly. The main “culprit” people cite for not flossing is that they don’t have time. Although effective flossing does require a bit of time (about 3 to 5 minutes), Dr. Kitchen says that even 60 seconds of flossing is better than zero seconds of flossing. The key here is to make flossing a daily habit.

Other excuses vary from not knowing how to floss, not having enough dexterity to floss, or having dental work that makes flossing impossible, or that food doesn’t get stuck in your teeth. If it’s lack of knowledge that is keeping you from flossing your teeth, take a look at this video that clearly illustrates how to properly floss. Also, if you have dexterity constraints, consider a floss holder. These disposable plastic Y-shaped devices (some equipped with a spool of floss) hold a span of floss between two prongs to allow one-handed use. Furthermore, flossing doesn’t rid your mouth of food detritus, it gets rid of dental plaque, the very thing that causes gum disease.

Another oft-used excuse is that flossing can be painful for some. Bleeding while brushing and flossing is the precise condition flossing aims to prevent. The good news is that once you regularly floss and brush, these symptoms subside. If they persist, it is wise to contact Dr. Kitchen at his La Jolla, CA office to figure out what is going on with your oral health. Remember, brushing and flossing regularly is how you prevent periodontal disease!