Preventing Complications after Extractions

At the general and cosmetic dental office of Dr. Suzanne Haeri, we want all our patients’ teeth to look their best. Usually, this means preserving them and redoing old restorations. However, there are times when tooth extractions are medically necessary. In those cases, we work to ensure patients have a smooth recovery, and if they are to receive replacement teeth, they are in a good position to have them placed as soon as possible. In order to do that, we need our patients' cooperation to catch the early warning signs of a rare but serious complication, the dry socket.

 

When a tooth is extracted, a bit of jawbone at the base of the socket is exposed to the open air. Usually, this is not a problem, since a scab quickly seals it off. However, if the patient’s blood fails to clot, or the scab is removed prematurely, the socket will lose moisture and pathogens will be able to enter the body through it. The empty socket doesn’t usually take long to close and there is a short amount of time in which it could dry out, but if it does, the patient would be in severe pain and likely develop an infection.

 

Before performing an extraction, we’ll ask patients what medications they’re on so we’ll be able to predict if their blood will clot properly. After the extraction, we’ll need the patient to comply with post-surgery instructions to protect the scab. That means avoiding sucking through straws or eating anything sticky, either of which might pull the scab loose. If the scab does come off, a patient will be able to see so. They should rinse their mouth with salt water and set up an emergency appointment with us. We’ll be able to provide antibacterial medications and moisturizers to keep the socket from drying out as it continues to close over the next week.

 

The dental office of Suzanne Haeri, DDS, is located at 1100 S La Cienega Blvd, Los Angeles, California, 90035. To schedule an appointment, call 310-657-2200 or visit our website at Suzanne Haeri DDS.

Preventing Complications after Extractions

At the general and cosmetic dental office of Dr. Suzanne Haeri, we want all our patients’ teeth to look their best. Usually, this means preserving them and redoing old restorations. However, there are times when tooth extractions are medically necessary. In those cases, we work to ensure patients have a smooth recovery, and if they are to receive replacement teeth, they are in a good position to have them placed as soon as possible. In order to do that, we need our patients' cooperation to catch the early warning signs of a rare but serious complication, the dry socket.

 

When a tooth is extracted, a bit of jawbone at the base of the socket is exposed to the open air. Usually, this is not a problem, since a scab quickly seals it off. However, if the patient’s blood fails to clot, or the scab is removed prematurely, the socket will lose moisture and pathogens will be able to enter the body through it. The empty socket doesn’t usually take long to close and there is a short amount of time in which it could dry out, but if it does, the patient would be in severe pain and likely develop an infection.

 

Before performing an extraction, we’ll ask patients what medications they’re on so we’ll be able to predict if their blood will clot properly. After the extraction, we’ll need the patient to comply with post-surgery instructions to protect the scab. That means avoiding sucking through straws or eating anything sticky, either of which might pull the scab loose. If the scab does come off, a patient will be able to see so. They should rinse their mouth with salt water and set up an emergency appointment with us. We’ll be able to provide antibacterial medications and moisturizers to keep the socket from drying out as it continues to close over the next week.

 

The dental office of Suzanne Haeri, DDS, is located at 1100 S La Cienega Blvd, Los Angeles, California, 90035. To schedule an appointment, call 310-657-2200 or visit our website at Suzanne Haeri DDS.

Gum Disease and Implants

A dental implant is a big investment, and we want to make sure you get the most out of it. At the South Carthay dental office of Dr. Suzanne Haeri, we provide implant-supported crowns to patients who are looking for a permanent solution to missing teeth and who want to rebuild their jaws and facial structure as well as their smiles. Dental implant placement has very high success rates, and implants usually last for years. But there is a situation in which they could be in danger, which is why we want our patients to be able to recognize peri-implantitis.

 

Peri-implantitis is what we call it when the gum tissue around an implant post becomes inflamed. In the months following an implant’s placement, it will fuse with the jawbone through a process called osseointegration. In order for fusion to be successful, there has to be sufficient bone mass to begin with, and the bone cannot continue to recede. But acid-secreting bacteria may colonize the gum pocket surrounding an implant, just as they do the gum pockets surrounding natural tooth roots. If this happens, their acid may erode the implant post and the bone, preventing the implant from stabilizing. If an implant cannot integrate or a previously integrated implant becomes loose, it has to be removed.

 

Peri-implantitis looks similar to typical gum inflammation. The gums may be red, swollen, and sore, and they may bleed when the patient brushes their teeth. Peri-implantitis can be stopped by a deep cleaning if the patient seeks help quickly enough. We carefully monitor implant patients during the integration process to ensure they are not suffering gum infections, but once osseointegration is complete, we rely on patients to come to us if they begin having problems. Maintaining regular oral hygiene appointments will help ensure gum pocket infections are caught before they become severe.

 

The dental office of Suzanne Haeri, DDS, is located at 1100 S La Cienega Blvd, Los Angeles, California, 90035. To schedule an appointment, call 310-657-2200 or visit our website at Suzanne Haeri DDS.

What are Sealants For?

With the approach of the school year, many parents are eager to make sure their children’s teeth are in good condition. Toothaches are a common reason for children’s sleep and behavior problems, and general dentists can provide preventive care as well as repair. But one of the most common forms of preventive dentistry, the application of sealants, works for adults as well as children. At Dr. Suzanne Haeri’s South Carthay dental office, we’re pleased to offer sealants for the protection of our patients’ teeth, and we especially want adults who have a history of tooth decay to know how they can benefit.

 

Sealants are shields that are applied to the grinding surfaces of the molars and premolars. Those teeth have multiple raised bits, called cusps, with indentations between them. The indentations commonly become caked in food debris, particularly starches, making them good spots for oral bacteria to grow in. These parts of the teeth can also be difficult to brush effectively, allowing the acid by-product of oral bacteria to settle into indentations and create bigger cracks. However, sealants smooth out the teeth’s grinding surfaces and create a barrier between the enamel and the food debris. They leave the teeth textured enough to fulfill their function, but slow the rate of decay.

 

Application of sealants doesn’t require preparation from the patient. After cleaning the teeth, we’ll apply a mild etching acid to them to increase their surface area. We’ll then paint the plastic sealant on in liquid form and harden it with a blue light. The patient will resume eating normally by the next day, and afterward, the sealant can last for as long as ten years as long as they maintain regular oral hygiene.

 

The dental office of Suzanne Haeri, DDS, is located at 1100 S La Cienega Blvd, Los Angeles, California, 90035. To schedule an appointment, call 310-657-2200 or visit our website at Suzanne Haeri DDS.

Protect Your Teeth from Staining

If you’ve gotten whitening treatment in our office, you’ve noticed your teeth are several shades lighter. With good oral hygiene, they should stay that way for years. But tooth discoloration is a normal part of life, and everybody’s smiles fade over time. Nonetheless, there are some things you can do to protect natural teeth from stains. At the South Carthay dental office of Dr. Suzanne Haeri, we specialize in cosmetic care, and to protect our patients’ investment, we wanted to pass along some information about enamel and extrinsic stains.

 

An extrinsic stain is one which forms on the outside of the tooth. While intrinsic stains are often indicative of a health problem that may require significant intervention, extrinsic stains are usually only a cosmetic issue. For the most part, they can be blamed on tannins. These organic substances are present in some plant tissues, and are the reason why coffee, tea, and red wine are dark colored. They also build up on a person’s teeth, and cause the same stains. Dark colored soda and juice can have a similar effect, and their sugar is causing dark-colored substances to get stuck on the teeth. Other sources of tooth discoloration are smoking, soy sauce, and tomato sauce.

 

Although cutting back on staining substances can keep teeth whiter for longer, patients may not need to abandon coffee and tea entirely. Sipping these drinks through a straw can significantly reduce the teeth’s exposure to tannins. Regular brushing and flossing will also remove the sticky plaque that traps dark substances. If you do notice your teeth fading, we can provide a whitening touch-up in the form of in-office whitening or a refill for a take-home tray.

 

The dental office of Suzanne Haeri, DDS, is located at 1100 S La Cienega Blvd, Los Angeles, California, 90035. To schedule an appointment, call 310-657-2200 or visit our website at Suzanne Haeri DDS.

Loose Fillings

As both a general and cosmetic dental office, we at the South Carthay practice of Dr. Suzanne Haeri are pleased to offer stable, naturally-colored fillings. Unlike the silver amalgam of old, modern fillings are indistinguishable from healthy enamel and won’t trigger a patient’s allergy to metal. But although fillings can stay in place for years, the seal holding them in place does eventually break down. We hope you keep up with regular dental appointments so you can get yours repaired before they become a problem, but since fillings can come loose prematurely, we want our patients to recognize them and seek treatment.

 

After decayed enamel is drilled away, a filling is made by sealing a bit of porcelain or resin into the hole. As the seal breaks down, saliva will get trapped in the cracks, causing the filling to seem to leak. Unfortunately, the same spaces can be occupied by bacteria, where they are safe from the patient’s brushing and can resume causing decay. As the seal continues to break, the filling may come loose and start causing the patient pain and difficulty biting down. If yours has reached this point, don’t hesitate to schedule an emergency appointment. In the meantime, you may be able to reduce your discomfort by applying a topical numbing gel.

 

Once we’ve removed a loose filling, we’ll be able to drill away further decay, if necessary. From there, providing a new filling is usually a simple matter as long as the patient is satisfied with the color of the rest of the dental crown. We shape fillings with tools called burnishers to ensure they won’t get in the way of the patient closing their teeth together. Fillings require the same daily hygiene as normal teeth and they’re a bit more fragile than natural enamel, so patients will have to be especially careful to avoid chewing on ice or anything else extremely hard. But when cared for properly, fillings can last for over a decade.

 

The dental office of Suzanne Haeri, DDS, is located at 1100 S La Cienega Blvd, Los Angeles, California, 90035. To schedule an appointment, call 310-657-2200 or visit our website at Suzanne Haeri DDS.

Use of Mouthguards

Prevention is an important aspect of dental care, particularly when it comes to injuries. A broken tooth could be expensive and difficult to repair as well as painful, and is often accompanied by damage to the mouth’s soft tissues. This year, from July 19-23, the federal government is recognizing National Youth Sports Week, so we thought this would be a good time to remind athletes of any age of the importance of wearing a mouthguard and how to determine which ones suit their needs.

 

Dental trauma is most likely to occur during contact sports, but it is a risk even during activities such as gymnastics and skating. Governing boards generally require that participants wear a mouthguard at least over their maxillary teeth, but injuries can also occur during amateur or casual play. Mouthguards come in three varieties: ready made, boil-and-bite, and customized, each offering an increasing level of protection. Ready made ones come in different sizes and customized ones are designed for one specific user, while boil-and-bite mouthguards are adjustable. The wearer boils them to soften them, and then puts them over their teeth and molds them with their fingers while they are cooling.

 

Boil-and-bite mouthguards are particularly popular among young athletes, whose teeth are still shifting. However, some additional oversight from a dentist may be necessary when fitting them over braces. Evidence shows that use of mouthguards reduces dental injuries by forty percent. Mouthguards and their containing cases need to be kept clean in accordance with their manufacturer’s instructions, and users should be careful to avoid leaving them in the sun or anywhere else extremely hot, or else their shape might be distorted the next time they are used. But overall, mouthguards are a simple way to protect your dental investment.

 

The dental office of Suzanne Haeri, DDS, is located at 1100 S La Cienega Blvd, Los Angeles, California, 90035. To schedule an appointment, call 310-657-2200 or visit our website at Suzanne Haeri DDS.

Acid Reflux and Enamel

Tooth sensitivity could be caused by many things. As a child you were probably taught to associate it with caries, and that’s certainly common. But as people get older, another common cause of toothaches emerges: acid reflux. At the South Carthay office of Dr. Suzanne Haeri, we value prevention as well as general maintenance, and we want our patients to enjoy dental comfort. That’s why we want to explain a bit about how lifestyle factors play into enamel erosion and how patients can protect themselves.

 

Enamel is incredibly hard, but it can still be eroded by acid. Tooth decay occurs when enamel is dissolved by the acid bacteria secrete as they metabolize sugar, but acid can also be regurgitated from a person’s stomach. Normally, the stomach is separated from the esophagus by a sphincter, but this sphincter can get stuck open, or a person may develop a condition in which it opens when they swallow. This would allow stomach acid to escape in gaseous form. What we call “heartburn” is really the sensation of stomach acid burning the esophagus on its way up, and when it reaches the mouth, it can do the same to the teeth. Due to their position, the ones in the back of the upper jaw are the most vulnerable.

 

People who suffer chronic acid reflux should seek the help of a gastrointestinologist, but there are a few things that might reduce the frequency of attacks. They may try reducing their consumption of alcohol, chocolate, tomatoes, garlic and onions, and red meat, and avoid eating anything in large quantities before lying down. They are also at greater risk if they smoke. We can provide patients’ teeth with additional protection in the form of sealants or fluoridation treatments. Increasing saliva flow by means such as chewing sugarfree gum will also help neutralize more acid.

 

The dental office of Suzanne Haeri, DDS, is located at 1100 S La Cienega Blvd, Los Angeles, California, 90035. To schedule an appointment, call 310-657-2200 or visit our website at Suzanne Haeri DDS.

Dental Bonding

Do you find yourself running your lips over a small chip in one of your teeth? Are you reluctant to smile in pictures because one of the gaps between your teeth seems too large, or one of your crowns isn’t as long as the others? We hope that’s not the case; everyone deserves a smile they’re proud of. But at the South Carthay dental office of Dr. Suzanne Haeri, we provide dental bonding that can be used for cosmetic improvements as well as minor repairs. The process is quick and far less invasive than replacing a whole crown.

 

Bonding is made out of a composite resin the same color as your teeth. (If you are also unhappy with your teeth’s color, we can whiten them before making any adjustments to their shape.) We use bonding to smooth over tiny cracks, called craze lines, and to add a bit more material to a crown that is uneven or where gum tissue has receded around, but the tooth is stable. Bonding can reduce the sensitivity of an exposed tooth root and may be able to replace a patient’s old metal fillings. To place it, we’ll first cover the tooth in a mild etching acid to increase its surface area. We’ll then apply the wet bonding material and harden it with a blue light.

 

When a patient makes a reservation just to have bonding placed on a tooth, they can usually be out of the office in less than an hour. If the patient is not suffering from sensitivity, placing bonding may not even require anesthetic. Although patients have to be careful not to overtax bonding by biting down on anything too hard, they should find it easy to care for. If a patient brushes and flosses their teeth regularly, bonding can stay in place and retain its original color for over five years.

 

The dental office of Suzanne Haeri, DDS, is located at 1100 S La Cienega Blvd, Los Angeles, California, 90035. To schedule an appointment, call 310-657-2200 or visit our website at Suzanne Haeri DDS.

Tooth Sectioning

Suzanne Haeri DDS in Los Angeles, CA, takes pride in educating our patients about all things dental. We know that having a tooth pulled is far from fun, but sometimes it’s a necessary step before a bigger procedure or treatment, such as wisdom teeth removal or orthodontic treatment. A routine tooth extraction doesn’t have to be painful or scary, especially if you pick the right oral surgeon who explains the whole process beforehand. 

The fact is, some teeth are more difficult to extract than others. Teeth are unique from individual to individual. They can be multi-rooted, impacted, or just larger than average. Tooth sectioning is a common procedure for teeth that are too firmly anchored in the socket or when the root is curved and the socket cannot expand enough for the tooth to be removed. To work around this, an oral surgeon cuts the tooth into sections. Each section is removed one by one.

Since less force is required for the extraction, tooth sectioning makes the procedure less painful for the patient and easier for the oral surgeon to remove the tooth. In addition to less pain, another major benefit of tooth sectioning is a smaller wound. A smaller wound means a shorter healing time!

Not sure if you need a tooth pulled? We can lead you in the right direction. Suzanne Haeri DDS practices at 1100 S La Cienega Blvd. in Los Angeles, CA 90035. For more information or to schedule an appointment, please visit suzannehaeridds.com or call 310-657-2200.

Hygiene During Orthodontic Treatment

Oral hygiene is already important when it comes to a healthy mouth, but it’s even more important when the mouth is going through orthodontic treatment. There are more nooks and crannies when brackets are placed on the teeth, wherein food is trapped and turned into plaque. Suzanne Haeri DDS in Los Angeles, CA, takes pride in educating patients with braces about the importance of an at-home oral hygiene regimen. 

 

Patients with braces are at an increased risk for early stages of tooth decay and gingivitis if proper oral hygiene isn’t used. Dr. Haeri recommends brushing your teeth with a soft toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste, as well as flossing, two to three times a day. You should be brushing in and around each bracket and wire, brushing in a circular motion where the gums and teeth meet, and brushing in a back and forth motion on the tops of molars.

 

Other things to consider during orthodontic treatment:

 

-Pay attention to what you eat and drink. Sugary foods and drinks erode enamel and make the teeth more susceptible to tooth decay, especially if you aren’t brushing properly or regularly.

-Certain foods can loosen, break, or bend wires. To limit stress on your braces, avoid eating hard or sticky foods.

Do you have a question or concern? We are happy to help! Suzanne Haeri DDS practices at 1100 S La Cienega Blvd. in Los Angeles, CA 90035. For more information or to schedule an appointment, please visit suzannehaeridds.com or call 310-657-2200.

 

Veneers

If you’re unhappy with your smile, there is no reason you can’t change it! Dental veneers reshape your entire mouth to your liking. They are made of thin, durable porcelain placed over your natural teeth. Say goodbye to stained, broken, chipped, or gapped teeth! Suzanne Haeri DDS in Los Angeles, CA offers veneers to our patients. To learn more, contact our office in Los Angeles, CA.

 

The entire veneer process takes between 2-3 appointments. The first is more of a consultation. You can ask any questions you have about the process while learning more. If you decide to go forward with veneers, you start making your aesthetic choices. 

 

There are many options and variables for your veneers. The shape is the first major choice. Veneers are either rounded or square. Female patients usually prefer the rounded option while men go for the square. Your Los Angeles, CA, dentist is happy with whatever shape you pick, regardless of gender. The next choice is the shade of the veneers. You can pick anywhere from a natural white to Hollywood-level brightness! The decision is yours. 

 

Next, we prepare and measure your teeth. The teeth are smoothed down to make the application of the veneers easier. We then create an impression of your teeth. This goes to a dental laboratory to create your customized veneers. It will take about 10-14 days for their creation and delivery. In the meantime, you’ll receive temporary veneers. At your final appointment, the veneers bond to your teeth. 

 

Never settle for anything less than the best when it comes to your smile! Suzanne Haeri DDS practices at 1100 S La Cienega Blvd. in Los Angeles, CA 90035. For more information or to schedule an appointment, please visit suzannehaeridds.com or call 310-657-2200.

 

Senior Dental Care

At Suzanne Haeri DDS in Los Angeles, CA, we treat patients of all ages, including senior citizens. It’s important to take good care of your teeth as you age. Older individuals are at a higher risk of oral complications, including extraction, tooth decay, and periodontal (gum) disease. Elderly patients often need frequent visits to stay healthy. Contact our office today to set up your appointment. 

One of the best things you can do for your mouth, especially when you’re in your golden years, is investing in an electric toothbrush. These clean your teeth while requiring minimal physical effort. This is perfect for patients who struggle with mobility. It cleans your teeth without jeopardizing your physical wellbeing. 

We have other tips for those who struggle with physical activity. Try elongating the handle of your toothbrush, that way you can easily reach your back molars and harder to reach areas. Look around your home for a few simple materials: specifically, foam, rubber, or even tongue depressors. Wrap these around your toothbrush handle (closer to its end). You should now have a longer toothbrush! Brushing your teeth will be much easier now. 

If you live or take care of an older individual, your help is important too! Gently remind them to brush and floss twice a day. If they have problems with physical tasks, assist them. You can also offer to give them rides to their dental appointments or even schedule them for them. Your Los Angeles, CA, dentist knows that dental care is expensive. That’s why many communities offer public health programs for older patients. They offer discounted or even free services for senior citizens. Reach out to your local social services or public health office to learn more. 

Do you have a question about senior dental care? We can assist you. Suzanne Haeri DDS practices at 1100 S La Cienega Blvd. in Los Angeles, CA 90035. For more information or to schedule an appointment, please visit suzannehaeridds.com or call 310-657-2200.

Oral Cancer Screenings

Suzanne Haeri DDS in Los Angeles, CA is dedicated to catching a potential problem in your mouth before it manifests into something worse. This is why we offer oral cancer screenings to check for any precancerous or cancerous conditions in the mouth. With the advances in modern technology, dentists are now able to treat a problem prior to it becoming irreversible.

An oral cancer screening is completed with an ultraviolet light that allows Dr. Haeri to view issues that cannot be detected with the naked eye. Precancerous lesions identified under this light are much easier to be removed and are more likely to be cured.

Causes of oral precancer/cancer include:

-Tobacco use of any kind, such as cigarettes, cigars, pipes, chewing tobacco, snuff, dip and vaping

-Heavy alcohol consumption

-Family history of cancer

-Human papillomavirus (HPV)

-Significant sun exposure

Is it time for an Oral Cancer Screening? Call our office today. Suzanne Haeri DDS practices at 1100 S La Cienega Blvd. in Los Angeles, CA 90035. For more information or to schedule an appointment, please visit suzannehaeridds.com or call 310-657-2200.

Digital X-Rays

The advancements in dental technology make it easier for dentists to deliver efficient care and diagnoses to their patients. One such advancement is digital x-rays, which are a staple in dental practices all over the country. Suzanne Haeri DDS in Los Angeles, CA, is always looking to stay up to date with the latest technology, products, and treatments. Digital x-rays allow dentists to look more closely at your teeth than ever before!

A digital x-ray takes an image of your teeth and puts it into an imaging program. With special tools exclusive to this imaging program, Dr. Haeri can take a closer look at your teeth with impeccable accuracy. Digital x-rays emit 80% less radiation than a standard x-ray since they are actually sensitive to radiation. This is a great benefit since the patient is exposed to less radiation. Digital x-rays can be classified as intraoral (inside the mouth) or extraoral (outside the mouth), though intraoral x-rays are the most commonly taken.

Intraoral x-rays allow us to:

-Observe the status of developing teeth

-Monitor tooth health

-Look at the tooth roots

-Find cavities

-Check the health of the bony area around the tooth

-Determine if there are signs of periodontal disease

Is it time for your routine checkup? Call us today! Suzanne Haeri DDS practices at 1100 S La Cienega Blvd. in Los Angeles, CA 90035. For more information or to schedule an appointment, please visit suzannehaeridds.com or call 310-657-2200.

Myofascial Pain Syndrome

If you’ve ever had an issue inside your mouth, you’re most likely aware of the varying degrees of pain that come with it. Mouth pain ranges anywhere from mild discomfort to feeling like your head is exploding, just from a toothache and tenderness. Suzanne Haeri DDS in Los Angeles, CA, is committed to correcting the problem in your mouth and helping you manage any pain associated with it. This includes Myofascial Pain Syndrome (MPS). Dr. Haeri takes pride in educating patients about how to prevent future oral problems. 

MPS commonly occurs in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). The pain is caused by tension, fatigue, or spasms in the jaw muscles. MPS is usually triggered by bruxism, a condition where a person clenches or grinds their teeth during sleep. Nightguards are a great way to prevent bruxism and ultimately the jaw soreness that is felt in the morning. MPS is not limited to just the jaw muscles, it can occur anywhere in the body including the back and neck muscles. 

Other treatments and preventions of MPS include:

-Splint guard, mouthguard, or nightguard

-Mild analgesics

-Physical therapy modalities

-Anxiolytic before bed

Are you suffering from MPS? Come in for a checkup. Dr. Haeri will assess the problem area in your mouth and get you started on a treatment plan. Suzanne Haeri DDS practices at 1100 S La Cienega Blvd. in Los Angeles, CA 90035. For more information or to schedule an appointment, please visit suzannehaeridds.com or call 310-657-2200.

Dental Emergencies

Whether it’s around the house or while you’re playing a sport, things happen sometimes that require you to see your dentist for a dental emergency. Suzanne Haeri DDS in Los Angeles, CA will always offer a helping hand when disaster strikes your teeth! It’s important that you get in contact with our office as soon as possible so that we can get your dental emergency taken care of.

Here are a few scenarios that Dr. Haeri can help you with: 

-Lost crown: try to locate the crown, seeing if it will fit back on to the tooth. If not, use some over-the-counter denture cement to hold it in place and then contact us straight away!

-Dislocated tooth: if your tooth is only partially knocked out, clean the area and keep the swelling down. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help with that. And don’t touch the tooth at all! 

-Missing filling: similar to a lost crown, contact us right away. The earlier you alert us the quicker we can create a replacement. 

-Knocked-out tooth: find the tooth and clean it properly. See if it will fit back into its allotted space. Otherwise, place it in some cold milk or salt-water. 

-Broken or chipped tooth: rinse your mouth while saving as many fragments as possible. Apply ice packs in a fifteen minute cycle to reduce swelling. 

-Unexplained toothache: try cleaning your mouth vigorously. This removes any debris pressed up against or stuck between your teeth. Give us a call if this doesn’t help. 

There are a few other scenarios that aren’t true emergencies that we also treat, like toothaches, a cut tongue or lip, abscessed tooth, or swollen cheeks, lips, and teeth. 

Do you have a question about dental emergencies? We are happy to address any concerns that may come up. Suzanne Haeri DDS practices at 1100 S La Cienega Blvd. in Los Angeles, CA 90035. For more information or to schedule an appointment, please visit suzannehaeridds.com or call 310-657-2200.

Getting Crowns

We offer a variety of cosmetic dental services at the South Carthay office of Dr. Suzanne Haeri. If a patient has small cracks or chips in their teeth, we can provide ultra-thin veneers or naturally colored fillings to give them back a smile they’re proud of. But sometimes, teeth are damaged so badly that cosmetic care isn’t enough. In those cases, we provide patients with artificial crowns that we take care to ensure look and feel just as good as their original teeth. This week, we’re going to discuss the process of getting a crown and why they may be necessary.

 

Artificial crowns, or caps, replace the entirety of the outer part of the tooth above the gum line. They are used if a tooth has lost too much enamel to sustain a partial crown. Often, when a tooth is that damaged, it also requires root canal therapy to remove potentially infected pulp. Following the pulp extraction, the dentist will fill in the empty pulp chamber with a sealant, and then smooth the remaining enamel into a cylindrical abutment. An impression is then made of the patient’s mouth and sent to a dental laboratory, where a custom-fitted and colored artificial crown is fabricated out of a material such as porcelain.

 

While the permanent crown is being made, the patient will wear a temporary version. This could last for about two weeks. Once the new crown arrives at our office, the patient will be able to return to have it cemented in. Artificial crowns are vulnerable to decay, like natural teeth, and can be broken if the patient clenches their jaw in their sleep. However, with proper brushing and flossing, and with protection from night time grinding, an artificial crown can last for over ten years.

 

The dental office of Suzanne Haeri, DDS, is located at 1100 S La Cienega Blvd, Los Angeles, California, 90035. To schedule an appointment, call 310-657-2200 or visit our website at Suzanne Haeri DDS.

Halitosis

We specialize in cosmetic dental care at the South Carthay office of Dr. Suzanne Haeri. Maintaining a smile that you're proud of isn’t just a function of how it looks, but also of how it smells. We’ve all had moments when we suddenly realized that something we’d eaten was causing us to have bad breath. But what about halitosis, the chronic, lingering unpleasant smell that sometimes seems to come from our mouths for days on end? This week, we’ll take a closer look at the reasons for halitosis, and what can be done about it.

 

Halitosis can generally be traced to oral pathogens. Certain species of bacteria produce an odor when they metabolize food debris left over in the mouth. When those bacteria are on the teeth, they may contribute to tooth decay and gum recession, but there are a lot more of them hiding in the bumps on the tongue. They may not do much substantive harm there, but the white coat they form is probably responsible for a patient’s bad breath. People who wear dentures or retainers may also experience outbreaks of fungus, which emit bad odors for similar reasons, and people with nasal infections may experience discharge leaking onto the backs of their tongues.

 

One of the most effective things you can do to eliminate halitosis is to drink more water. Increasing your saliva output won’t just rinse away food particles and bacteria, it will also counteract the effects of acid. Saliva also contains antimicrobial enzymes for additional protection from infection. Scraping your tongue once a day will also remove build-up, and you can use mouthwash to scour the back of it. Following meals, you might also want to try sugar-free gum or candy to stimulate more saliva production and remove a small amount of debris if you can’t use a toothbrush, floss, or scraper right away.

 

The dental office of Suzanne Haeri, DDS, is located at 1100 S La Cienega Blvd, Los Angeles, California, 90035. To schedule an appointment, call 310-657-2200 or visit our website at Suzanne Haeri DDS.

Bite Checks

You may be familiar with twice-annual dental check-ups as a way to get your teeth cleaned and your fillings inspected. But that’s not all that happens at a check-up, and even if you think your mouth is free of decay, there are good reasons to keep your appointments. One of the most important aspects of a dental examination is the bite check. At Dr. Suzanne Haeri’s South Carthay dental office, we provide for our patients’ general and cosmetic dental needs, and both of those depend on their teeth closing comfortably and completely together.

 

Bite checks are an opportunity for the dentist to check for malocclusions and damage from temporomandibular joint disorders (tmd). Malocclusions, which are misalignments in the teeth, may also be evident through x-rays, but a bite check would alert us if the patient’s jaws are coming together at an angle. TMD both results from and contributes to swelling in the joints where the lower jaw connects to the rest of the skull. Damage to those joints can result in difficulty opening the mouth, pain radiating from the head to the shoulders, and increased pressure on the teeth, causing them to move out of place, lose enamel, or crack.

 

During a bite check, we would ask a patient to demonstrate closing their teeth together. They should be able to close with the back teeth on both sides fitting into each other, and without the front teeth tilting outward. We can provide veneers to fix minor malocclusions on the front teeth, but teeth grinding induced by tmd will leave distinctive wear patterns, and a patient may need to wear a night guard during sleep to protect themselves from it. Correcting more serious malocclusions may require referral to an orthodontist, but we can still teach patients jaw stretching exercises to reduce the strain in their joints in the meantime.

 

The dental office of Suzanne Haeri, DDS, is located at 1100 S La Cienega Blvd, Los Angeles, California, 90035. To schedule an appointment, call 310-657-2200 or visit our website at Suzanne Haeri DDS.

Toothroot Decay

Tooth decay is painful, makes it harder to chew and eat, and can put your health at risk if it goes on long enough. But even so, some kinds of tooth decay are even more inconvenient than others. At the South Carthay dental office of Dr. Suzanne Haeri, we provide care for our patients’ general oral health needs. We’re happy to treat patients who are suffering from toothaches, but those who have decay in their tooth roots should be aware that they may need treatment that is a bit different than what they’re used to.

 

Although there are a few reasons why the outer layers of teeth may lose material, “tooth decay” refers to the process of an infection on the tooth’s surface dissolving the part of the tooth surrounding it. Our mouths are home to many species of oral bacteria, only a few of which are harmful to our teeth. But those bacteria secrete acid as part of their cellular respiratory process, and that acid gets stuck on tooth surfaces and in gum pockets. As acid builds up, it dissolves the enamel, which is the hard covering of the crown of a tooth, and the cementum, which is the sticky material that seals a tooth root to the walls of a gum pocket. It also causes gum tissue to disconnect from tooth roots, creating gaps for more bacteria to colonize.

 

You can brush away bacterial infections on the crowns of your teeth, but you won’t be able to remove infections in the gum pockets. For that, you’ll need a deep cleaning. If we find that a patient has decay in their tooth roots, we’ll numb them with a local anesthetic, and then scoop out the decayed material through a process called scaling. We may also smooth down the tooth roots to make them easier to clean in the future, which is called planing. Tooth roots aren’t covered by as thick a layer of enamel as crowns, so decay there will cause sensitivity more quickly. If you’ve felt pain that seemed to be coming from your tooth roots, don’t delay scheduling an appointment.

 

The dental office of Suzanne Haeri, DDS, is located at 1100 S La Cienega Blvd, Los Angeles, California, 90035. To schedule an appointment, call 310-657-2200 or visit our website at Suzanne Haeri DDS.

Why You Should Start Your Kids Early At the Dentist

What age is best to begin visiting the dentist? Located in Los Angeles, CA, Dr. Suzanne Haeri recommends 12-months as the ideal age to bring your child into the office. Many parents are surprised at how young this age is, but good dental habits start early. Here are three reasons why early dental visits are better for your child’s oral health.

Prevention
Don’t wait until your child develops cavities to take them to the dentist. Trips to the dentist when your kids are young are beneficial for preventing any oral health issues they are likely to face down the road. Whether it’s cavities, tooth decay, or sensitivities, your Los Angeles, CA dentist is ready to evaluate your child for any signs of poor dental health. Starting your children at 12-months is even better because we can evaluate your son or daughter’s primary teeth. While these teeth are considered baby teeth, they are essential in facilitating the growth and position of permanent teeth. Another advantage to starting dental visits young is the ability to monitor teeth and jaw development. Teeth naturally shift and change as we grow older, and for children, it’s no different. Whether it’s overbite or crowded teeth, the earlier the better it to monitor these issues, so book an appointment today at our office. 

Hygiene Habits

Your toddler begins to eat three meals a day at 12-months old. This means more food is likely to get stuck in the mouth, creating plaque and a higher risk for cavities. By visiting the dentist earlier in their childhood, your son or daughter will not only benefit from our treatments like sealants or crowns that work to remedy these dental issues but also gain a headstart to learning valuable oral hygiene lessons. From flossing techniques to colorful toothbrushes, our dentists are kid-friendly and hands-on to teach your kids the importance of good dental habits. 

Ease Dental Fears

It’s common for children to have fears about the dentist. Taking your kids early to the dentist prepares them for what to expect in the future. Many children are anxious about dental equipment or even the whole process of getting their teeth checked out. Early visits will familiarize them with a new environment and ease any lingering nerves.

To learn about the services we provide at our practice, visit www.suzannehaeridds.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Suzanne Haeri, DDS herself in our Los Angeles, CA office, call 310-657-2200.

Mouthwash 101

Mouthwash has been around since the beginning of the Roman empire thousands of years ago. Today, many people include mouthwash in their dental routine to feel fresh and clean. Located in Los Angeles, CA, Dr. Suzanne Haeri is passionate about oral health, including the importance of mouthwash. Here’s everything you need to know about mouthwash.

Mouthwash Can’t Cure Bad Breath

Halitosis or bad breath refers to the condition where bacteria grow in your body or mouth, resulting in stinky breath. While mouthwash does transform your breath into a minty fresh, it only masks the smelly odor temporarily. Bad breath is typically an underlying symptom of many health problems such as poor hygiene, gum disease, infection, or chronic illnesses. 

Mouthwash Doesn’t Replace Brushing or Flossing

Contrary to popular belief, rinsing your mouth with mouthwash doesn’t mean ditching the toothbrush or floss. Mouthwash is an addition to your dental routine. Not everyone uses mouthwash, but everyone should be brushing and flossing their teeth regularly for good oral health. 

Mouthwash Has Different Types

Mouthwash comes in two varieties: cosmetic and therapeutic. Cosmetic mouthwashes come in several different flavors and nice scents for the temporary benefit of masking bad breath. For patients with gingivitis or dry mouth,  Dr. Haeri of Los Angeles, CA prescribes therapeutic mouthwash. Therapeutic mouthwash can only be bought with a dentist’s prescription, so contact our office today for an appointment. 

Mouthwash Is Not for Children

Fluoride is a common ingredient in mouthwash. But increased fluoride exposure leads to fluorosis, a condition that affects teeth while they’re developing permanent molars. Another reason why it’s not advised for children under six years to use mouthwash is the potential to swallow the product.

To learn about the services we provide at our practice, visit www.suzannehaeridds.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Suzanne Haeri, DDS herself in our Los Angeles, CA office, call 310-657-2200.

Enamel Hypoplasia

Teeth sensitivity? White spots? Decay? Your child may be suffering from enamel hypoplasia or weak enamel. Located in Los Angeles, CA, Dr. Suzanne Haeri specializes in treating all things teeth for your little one, including enamel hypoplasia. This enamel deficiency leads to serious dental problems if not treated right away, so schedule an appointment now. 

What is Enamel?

Considered the hardest tissue in the body, the enamel is a thin covering around each tooth. This covering protects your teeth from any damage including from daily activities such as brushing, chewing, grinding, biting, hot or cold temperatures, and even chemicals. This is why thin or weak enamel opens the door to a variety of issues for your child’s oral health if not taken care of soon. 

Causes

Developmental conditions like Usher syndrome, Secked syndrome, or Otodental syndrome.

Vitamin deficiencies

Smoking and drug abuses by the mother

Maternal or fetal infection

Infection

Celiac disease

Liver issues

Malnutrition

Medications that are given to the child earlier in life or to the mother while pregnant

Teeth trauma such as rough brushing and sports injuries

Symptoms
Higher risk of acid attacks, or enamel erosion caused by acidic drinks like soft drinks and fruit beverages.

White spots on the surface of teeth

Pits or fissures on teeth

Tooth decay and increased cavities

Yellow or brown discoloration

Attrition or lack of tooth contact

Hypersensitivity especially to hot and cold temperatures.

Increased accumulation of bacteria

Translucent thin enamel surface

Treatment

Early detection of enamel hypoplasia gives your child a better chance of fixing the issue. Your Los Angeles, CA dentist will prescribe sealants for your child to protect their teeth against tooth decay. To repair already damaged teeth, we recommend crowns for your child. For more information on treatment options for enamel hypoplasia, contact our office today!

To learn about the services we provide at our practice, visit www.suzannehaeridds.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Suzanne Haeri, DDS herself in our Los Angeles, CA office, call 310-657-2200.