What is Sedation Dentistry?

Does the idea of visiting a dentist fill you with fear? Would you rather go through pain than visit a dentist? Dental anxiety can discourage you from taking care of your teeth. According to the American Dental Association, approximately 22 percent of people miss their appointments because they fear the dentist. Fortunately, modern dentistry offers several solutions to help you find peace in the dental chair. Sedation dentistry is one of these solutions. For painless and gentle dentistry, you can trust Dr. Suzanne Haeri, a vastly experienced dentist who, through modern dentistry methods like sedation dentistry, offers solutions to all sorts of dental problems. With the help of her staff, Dr. Haeri serves Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, Carthay, South Carthy, Miracle Mile, Hancock Park, Santa Monica, and Brentwood areas of California.

What Does Sedation Dentistry Involve?

Sedation dentistry helps patients feel relaxed during dental procedures. It is sometimes called "sleep dentistry," even though that’s not entirely accurate. The method does not induce full sleep but makes you less aware of your surroundings. That means you will still be able to respond to a verbal command or gentle nudging. While being treated, patients are usually awake, except those under general anesthesia.

Unlike other types of sedation, which are usually inhaled or taken as pills, a dentist will administer the sedation through your vein.

What is the Benefit of Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation dentistry helps ease anxieties and phobias for dental procedures, making you calm and comfortable. Dentists can work faster when a patient is sedated, resulting in fewer appointments. Many people are so afraid of dental procedures that they avoid visiting the dentist. Nevertheless, an experienced California dentist like Dr. Haeri will use sedation dentistry to help you feel more relaxed so you can receive the deserved care.

Are You a Candidate for Sedation Dentistry?

Before a dentist in Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, Carthay, South Carthy, Miracle Mile, Hancock Park, Santa Monica, or Brentwood, CA, schedules your sedation, they will review your medical history and medication use. Older patients or patients with serious medical considerations may first consult with their primary care physician. Usually, good candidates for sedation dentistry are people who:

• Have moderate to high dental anxiety


• May require a painful dental procedure


• Have a strong gag reflex


• Need multiple procedures

Conclusively, anxiety should not hinder you from receiving the deserved dental care. If you feel anxious about going to the dentist, sedation dentistry can be of great help. Email Dr. Haeri directly at dr@suzannehaeridds.com or the office at info@suzannehaeridds.com to book an appointment. Dr. Haeri and her staff proudly serve Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, Carthay, South Carthy, Miracle Mile, Hancock Park, Santa Monica, and Brentwood areas of California.

Diode Soft Tissue Laser

Dr. Suzanne Haeri provides a diode soft tissue laser in Los Angeles, CA, as an alternative to conventional gum surgery. This cutting-edge technology offers advanced treatments and results for patients.

Treatment will not injure dental hard tissue

The use of a soft tissue diode laser can be helpful for a variety of gum and bone conditions. This laser can prevent gum and tissue harm while improving the patient's comfort.

Soft-tissue lasers are safer than conventional methods and have less impact on the surrounding tissues, reducing the risk of postoperative infections.

Additionally, soft tissue dental lasers can provide a wide range of dental treatments without the pain and bleeding associated with scalpels. Dr. Suzanne Haeri can also use a diode soft tissue laser in Los Angeles, California, to help patients with various diseases and conditions.

 

Minimal local anesthetic is required

Soft tissue laser treatment is an option in California for those who are hesitant to undergo dental surgery.

Traditional methods include scalpel and tissue punch procedures. While these procedures are effective, they are often messy and painful.

The laser can improve your comfort and oral hygiene by limiting pain and bleeding.

 

Diode lasers are safe for use near prior dental work

Diode lasers are safe around full metallic crowns, amalgam restorations, and gold alloy restorations because they coagulate soft tissue and control moisture contamination and bleeding in California patients.

Dental lasers can be used to make a precise biopsy of a suspicious lesion or accurately uncover dental implants.

Lasers can also be used to decontaminate implant surfaces. These lasers work by creating rapid fluid movements, which disrupt biofilms.

 

Treatment is accurate and predictable

If you're looking for a faster, more effective way to perform soft tissue procedures, consider using a diode laser in Los Angeles, CA.

These devices are more powerful and precise than conventional scalpels, making them a superior option for a wide range of dental applications.

Diode lasers can be used for soft-tissue surgery, including periodontal and restorative procedures, and are less intrusive than traditional methods. In addition, they reduce the risk of infection, swelling, and bleeding.

 

Stitches and periodontal packs might not be needed

A soft tissue laser is an easy-to-use, non-invasive valuable procedure in oral surgery. It reduces swelling and postoperative pain and provides a brief healing period.

In addition, they provide a relatively bloodless surgical site and eliminate the need for stitches and periodontal packs.

Diode lasers treat a wide range of patients with minimal pain and discomfort and the ability to heal quickly.

Call (310) 657-2200 or (310) 854-0600 to schedule your diode soft tissue laser consultation in Los Angeles, CA, with Dr. Suzanne Haeri.

VELscope Oral Cancer Screening

Over 53,000 Americans get diagnosed with oral cancer each year according to VELscope itself. Here at Dr. Suzanne Haeri's dental practice in Los Angeles, CA, we believe it's important to get regular oral cancer screenings, since patients are much more likely to survive when cancer is detected early. When you visit our California office, we will perform a procedure known as VELscope oral cancer screening to ensure proper mouth health.

VELscope Oral Cancer Screening Details

The VELscope tool is essentially a blue light device that illuminates the mouth's tissues during a screening. This allows your dentist to see details in the tissue that aren't visible to the bare human eye. The tool is used in combination with the traditional screening methods to optimize the likelihood of early cancer detection. Early detection is vital for reversal.

Oral Cancer Information

At Dr. Haeri's dental practice in Los Angeles, CA, we are very experienced in working with oral cancer and strive to give patients the best possible treatment. Oral cancer is a type of cancer that affects the mouth, tongue, lips, or other parts of the oral cavity. The most common symptoms of oral cancer include sores, lesions, or bumps that don't heal, red or white patches in the mouth, and pain or difficulty swallowing. Risk factors for oral cancer include smoking, heavy alcohol consumption, and exposure to UV light from the sun. Those over the age of 50, as well as those who have unhealthy diets are also at an increased risk. To prevent oral cancer, it is important to quit smoking and limit alcohol consumption. Regular dental check-ups and screenings are important, as is protecting your lips from UV rays with lip balm with SPF when you're out in that California sun! Additionally, maintaining a healthy diet and avoiding tobacco products can also lower the risk of developing oral cancer.

If you have any of the symptoms listed above, engage with the risk factors, or just haven't been screened recently, get in to see a dentist for a VELscope oral cancer screening. If you are interested in booking an appointment with us here at Dr. Haeri's dental practice in Los Angeles, CA, you can do so by calling (310) 657-2200 or emailing us at info@suzannehaeridds.com. We look forward to helping California locals optimize their dental health!

What is Bone Grafting?

According to the CDC, "Among adults aged 20 or older, about 90% have had at least one cavity." At some point in your life, you will likely need tooth repair. In the past, serious dental conditions often resulted in the total loss of one or more teeth. Bone grafting changed all that. Specialists like Dr. Suzanne Haeri in Los Angeles, California, use bone grafting to restore teeth to their former glory.

How Does It Work?

During bone grafting, Dr. Suzanne Haeri and others like her take healthy bone and graft it onto teeth and jawbones to repair severe damage. Bone cells can heal, as anyone who has ever suffered from a broken bone knows. Severe injury, however, is beyond the body's ability to heal by itself. When that happens, doctors take cells from healthy bones and graft them onto the damaged area. The graft replaces the part of the bone that can't heal, and the rest heals the same as any other fracture. This method can be used to treat any number of bone conditions but is most effective in dental operations because of how dental cells grow. These grafts may come from a donor or other parts of the patient's skeleton.</p>

Risks of Bone Grafting

Any transplant surgery has risks, and bone grafting is no exception. Surgery always carries the risk of a bad reaction to anesthesia, so it's essential to follow all of your surgeon's instructions before surgery. In rare cases, an infection can occur during surgery. For transplant surgery, conditions suffered by the original donor also carry an infection risk. These conditions are rare, and a good surgeon can mitigate many of them. If you have concerns, don't be afraid to ask your doctor what steps they take to protect your health during a bone graft.

About Dr. Suzanne Haeri

Dr. Suzanne Haeri of Los Angeles, CA, has been practicing dentistry for over 28 years. Her practice focuses on gentle dentistry informed by high levels of expertise. In addition to Dr. Suzanne Haeri's bone grafting, she also offers fillings, extractions, root canals, and diode laser gum surgery. Her practice ensures patients receive the correct care for their age and lifestyle. No patient is ever recommended a service they don't need, and all courses of treatment are designed to heal as effectively as possible.

Schedule An Appointment

Your dental health is essential. If you are experiencing jaw damage or tooth decay, it is time to discover a quality treatment plan. If your teeth need bone grafting, Dr. Suzanne Haeri of Los Angeles, CA, is the professional you can trust. Contact her office today to schedule your appointment.

What is Halitosis?

Most people experience bad breath from time to time. It’s one of those things that you may check throughout the day, popping in a piece of gum or mint to prevent lunch from interfering with your social life. When the foul odor from your mouth becomes far too common or you struggle to get rid of it even with excellent oral hygiene, you may need treatment for halitosis in Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, Carthay, South Carthy, Miracle Mile, Hancock Park, Santa Monica, or Brentwood, California. That’s where Dr. Suzanne Haeri can help from her practice, Suzanne Haeri Cosmetic & General Dentistry.

What is Halitosis?

Halitosis is the medical term for bad breath, especially when that offensive odor is a common occurrence. It’s often a symptom of an underlying problem and requires attention from a dental professional.

Potential Causes of Bad Breath

Occasional halitosis is often caused by foods with strong odors like onions or garlic. When it becomes a routine occurrence and starts to interfere with your professional or social life, it’s time to check for some of these other potential causes:

• Poor oral hygiene


• Unclean dentures


• Dry mouth


• Diabetes


• Bacteria accumulation on the tongue


• Respiratory infection, bronchitis, or other illnesses


• Periodontal disease


• Tobacco and drug use


• Gastrointestinal disorders


• Liver disorders


• Kidney disorders

Periodontal disease is one of the most common causes of chronic bad breath in Los Angeles, CA, as well as other areas of the country. If you notice bleeding, red, or swollen gums, you should have your teeth and gums inspected by a dentist as soon as possible. The faster you treat periodontal disease, the less likely you are to lose teeth.  

Ready to Get Rid of Halitosis in Los Angeles, CA?

The first step to remedying bad breath is to double-check your daily dental care routine. If you’re already brushing your teeth twice a day, try keeping a toothbrush with you so that you can brush after every meal. Make sure you’re brushing your tongue as well as your teeth and are flossing daily. If you have dentures, thorough and routine cleaning is essential to eliminate foul odors.

You may also combat bad breath by drinking plenty of water and avoiding foods like onions. If those simple strategies don’t work, you may have a more serious dental condition that requires professional attention.

Scheduling an appointment with Dr. Haeri at Suzanne Haeri Cosmetic & General Dentistry is the best way to determine the cause and best treatment for halitosis in the Los Angeles, CA, area. Contact our team of compassionate professionals at (310) 657-2200 or (310) 854-0600 today.

Wisdom Teeth Removal

Dr. Suzanne Haeri is available to help people in Los Angeles, California, and the surrounding area, improve their oral health and prevent problems in the future. And fortunately, one of the services she provides is tooth extraction, in particular wisdom teeth removal. Let's discuss what you can expect from this procedure. 

Why You Would Need Wisdom Teeth Removal 

You may need tooth extraction on your wisdom teeth if you don't have enough space for your wisdom teeth to come in. In this case, they could become impacted or affect the positioning of your other teeth. 

In general, even if you aren't having issues, you may still want to have them removed because they no longer serve a purpose, and they're hard to take care of. As a result, they're prone to decay, which can spread to your other teeth. Not to mention, if you have bacteria around the gumline where your wisdom teeth are, it can be hard to clean. It'll remain there, irritate the gums, and lead to gum disease. 

What to Expect During Wisdom Teeth Removal

The first step of the process is to determine if you should have your wisdom teeth removed since not everybody needs to have this procedure. Then, our dentist will decide on the best way to remove them in your situation. 

For some people, wisdom tooth removal may be done using an elevator. In this case, tooth extraction is performed like other tooth removals. However, if the tooth hasn't broken through the surface at all or enough, our dentist may recommend surgical removal, which is when a practitioner makes an incision in the gums to remove the tooth. 

Why Choose Us 

We're available to those in Los Angeles, CA, and the nearby region, so we're a convenient option for many. Our dental specialist has extensive training and experience, which can give you peace of mind you're in good hands for this type of procedure. 

We understand that this process can be stressful, and our dentist tries to make it as comfortable for you as possible. One way we do this is by answering all your questions and trying to keep you calm. If we know you have dental anxiety, we can figure out a way to keep you more comfortable, such as by giving you a sedative prior to the treatment. 

When you visit Dr. Haeri, serving Los Angeles, CA, and the neighboring communities, you can have your wisdom teeth removed to prevent problems in the future. We'll do it in a manner that's most suitable for your situation and will take steps to ease your stress and discomfort. 

Book an appointment today by calling us at 310-657-2200.

Dental Hygiene for Diabetics

Dr. Suzanne Haeri in Los Angeles, CA, helps diabetics in the city and surrounding California area to improve their dental hygiene. Unfortunately, when you have uncontrolled blood glucose levels, it creates the perfect breeding ground for bacteria in your mouth. Not to mention, diabetes can interfere with your body's ability to fight against any bacteria. Let's discuss how we can help. 

Common Dental Problems for Diabetics 

Your high blood sugar levels aren't just high in your bloodstream; they're high in your saliva as well. This can feed the bacteria that cause gum disease. In fact, it can feed any bacteria in your mouth, which can also increase your risk of tooth decay. 

With diabetes, you may have dry mouth. Since saliva is necessary for your mouth to clear food debris, bacteria, and fungi, these can build up in your mouth and lead to thrush or gum disease. 

Because diabetes affects your white blood cells, your body can't fight infections as well as someone without diabetes, which can lead to these oral health problems lingering. 

Importance of Routine Dental Care

Routine dental hygiene is a vital component of oral health for anyone, but it's especially vital for diabetics due to the fact that they're more at risk of oral health issues because of their condition. 

During regular oral health visits, our dentist can evaluate the health of your mouth and identify any problems early when they're more manageable. 

Besides screenings, we also provide a thorough routine cleaning. At this point, our hygienist will thoroughly clean your teeth using a special dental-grade toothbrush and toothpaste. The cleaning will even target any debris or bacteria in between your teeth. This reduces the build-up of bacteria in the mouth, which can ultimately prevent diabetes-related teeth and gum problems. 

How We Help 

As a general rule, you need to have at least two visits per year with a Los Angeles, CA, dentist if you have diabetes. People who have serious cases of uncontrolled diabetes may need to visit the dentist more often, but your practitioner will provide you with recommendations when you visit. 

Routine visits include cleaning, x-rays, and thorough evaluation of the inside of your mouth to assess for problems. If any are detected, our dentist will inform you, and you and her can make a decision on how to correct the issue.

Part of your appointment will also include information about how to better manage your diabetes for better oral health. 

Dr. Haeri of Los Angeles, CA, helps diabetics have a lifetime of good oral health, despite their diagnosis. We work to find you a program tailored to your specific needs. 

Contact us today by calling 310-657-2200. 

Baby Bottle Tooth Decay

The very bottle that gives your child the nutrients he or she needs to grow and thrive, whether you give your little one formula or breastmilk. Both contain sugar that can feed bacteria in your little one's mouth and cause decay. Fortunately, you can prevent baby bottle tooth decay in the future with some pediatric dental hygiene education. Not to mention, Our Los Angeles, California, pediatric dentistry specialist, Dr. Suzanne Haeri, can treat it. 

What's Baby Bottle Tooth Decay?

Baby bottle tooth decay is from any sugary substances given to your child in a baby bottle that come in contact with his or her teeth. This could be either breastmilk or formula, or it could stem from juice or soda, 

The sugary drink gets on your child's teeth, and it will feed any bacteria in his or her mouth. These bacteria will continue to multiply in your kid's mouth. And as they do, they're also releasing an acidic waste that's decaying the enamel on your child's teeth. 

Preventing Baby Bottle Tooth Decay 

You can take steps to keep baby bottle decay at bay by never letting your child go to bed with a bottle in his or her mouth unless it has water in it only. Make sure you're wiping off your child's teeth with a clean washcloth or using a toothbrush, depending on his or her age. Do this at least twice per day as soon as your child's teeth come in. Once your little one has a tooth, schedule an appointment with a pediatric dentistry professional in Los Angeles, CA, to look for any problems and receive any education about pediatric dental hygiene to keep your little one's teeth healthy.  

It's best to only put water, formula, or breastmilk in a child's bottle.  

Treating Baby Bottle Tooth Decay

The treatment for this problem depends on the severity of your child's tooth decay. Sometimes, it's enough to use a fluoride treatment that encourages remineralization. This is only effective when a cavity is extremely small. 

Other larger cavities may need a filling or cap. This begins with the dentist removing any decay and then placing a material in the tooth to stop any future decay. The cap will cover the entire tooth. 

Teeth that have severe damage or have developed an infection may need to be pulled. This will stop the discomfort for your child and prevent the issues from worsening any further or spreading. 

Dr. Haeri helps patients with baby bottle tooth decay and will work with you to prevent it from happening again. Our Los Angeles, CA, dentist will provide an appropriate treatment as well as education. 

Contact us today at 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.

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.

4 Ways to Combat Dental Phobia

According to the research platform, DentaVox, about one-third of Americans avoid going to the dentist because of anxiety or fear. Located in Los Angeles, CA, Dr. Suzanne Haeri understands dental phobia is incredibly common. While this fear is attributed to a variety of reasons, we ensure every one of our patients a safe and comfortable experience throughout their dental exam. Here are four ways to combat dental phobia.

Talk to Your Dentist

One of the best ways to combat dental phobia is to give your dentist a heads-up. Talk to your dentist about any concerns you have before your dental examination. If you’re a parent of a child or teen anxious about visiting the dentist, take time out to chat about their apprehension, and let their dentist know as well. Your Los Angeles, CA are happy to discuss any fears, answer questions and even give you a rundown of any procedures or tools you’re uneasy about.

Healthy Habits

Some signs of dental phobia are trouble sleeping the night before. Try to maintain healthy habits like proper eating, enough sleep, and exercise, especially before a dental examination to lower the amount of stress before you walk through our doors.

Coping Strategies

Want to listen to music on your iPhone? Enjoy funny audio-books during your examination? Dr. Haeri is understanding when it comes to any coping strategies you choose to lower dental phobia. Breathing exercises are also another useful technique for calming and relaxation.

Relaxing Environments

Colorful decor, comfortable chairs, and a calming atmosphere are proven to mitigate any lingering fears when it comes to dental visits. That’s why our Los Angeles, CA office is artistically designed with calming colors to distract and ease any fears.

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.

Flossing For Kids

Flossing can be a chore for anyone. But for young children uninterested in dental hygiene, it’s even harder to instill good habits for healthy teeth. Located in Los Angeles, CA, Dr. Suzanne Haeri offers expert care for all things teeth, including the littlest of patients. Here are some tips and tricks to get your kids excited about flossing!

 

Gather the Tools

You may be tempted to use your floss from your cupboard. But to instill lifelong healthy habits, your child should have a positive first impression. Let your son or daughter pick out their floss at the store. There are many flavors and colors designed to be attractive to young children. Choose soft pliable floss instead of stiff dental threads to ensure a pain-free experience.

 

Make It a Game
It’s difficult for younger children to understand the benefits of flossing. Play a catchy song or interactive video to capture interest while they floss. Involve the tooth fairy and include rewards like gold stickers as incentives for your child. There are also many apps and websites designed specifically to educate kids about brushing and flossing in a fun way. 

 

Join Them 

Make flossing an activity that everyone in the family does together. Children learn from an example, so this is a great time to be a positive role model.

 

 Use the C-Shape Technique

Your Los Angeles, CA dentist recommends the C-shape technique for flossing. Guide your child’s fingers to make a C-shape around the side of a tooth. Gently glide your floss between both sides of the teeth until they can follow along on their own.

 

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.

 

 

Laughing Gas 101

Nitrous oxide or commonly known as laughing gas is used in health care facilities to reduce pain and numb patients during a variety of treatments including surgery. Located in Los Angeles, CA, Dr. Suzanne Haeri uses laughing gas to provide a safe, comfortable, and positive environment during all your dental procedures. Here’s everything you need to know about laughing gas before you book your next appointment today!

 

What Is Laughing Gas?

Nitrous oxide or laughing gas is a colorless odorless substance mixed with nitrogen and oxygen. This sedation method has been used for centuries and was first discovered in 1793 by English scientist Joseph Priestly.

How It Works

 

Before undergoing a procedure that uses laughing gas sedation, avoid eating a big meal at least three hours beforehand. Your Los Angeles, CA dentist will fit a small mask over your nose to inhale the nitrous oxide gas. The sedation effects only take a few minutes after you breathe normally through the mask. Nitrous oxide gas does not put you to sleep, so you will still be able to hear sounds and see what is going on. Instead of feeling anxious and worried during your dental treatment, laughing gas causes euphoria and an increased level of relaxation.

 

Once the mask is removed, your lungs will need a few minutes to receive oxygen again and your body will be alert in no time.

 

Symptoms

 

Common symptoms of nitrous oxide include mental confusion and tingling or numbness of the limbs. The chances of negative side effects are very low, with patients experiencing fatigue, vomiting, shivering, or sweating when nitrous oxide dosage levels were too high or inhaled quickly. Dr. Haeri is skilled in administering laughing gas and will be at your side every step of the way.

 

Effects

 

Laughing gas has three effects for patients:

-Pain reduction

-Increased levels of euphoria, so you’re relaxed

-Decreased anxiety and dental phobia

Is Laughing Gas Safe for Children?

 With new technologies in health practices, laughing gas is widely known as a safe sedation method for children. Contact our office today to find out if your child is a candidate for laughing gas 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.

 

Oral Health and Heart Disease

In a 2018 study conducted by the American Heart Association (AHA), poor oral health was shown to be linked to several cardiovascular diseases, including hypertension. Located in Los Angeles, CA, Dr. Suzanne Haeri is passionate about oral health, which she believes fosters long-term wellness and prevents illnesses like heart disease. 

The Heart and Your Oral Health: How Are They Connected?

Many studies prove the link between heart health and dental habits. One study published in the Journal of Indian Society of Periodontology revealed that people who have gum disease or periodontal disease have higher risks of developing heart disease. But gum disease isn’t the only condition that can lead to heart disease. Poor brushing habits can also lead to heart conditions, according to findings presented at the AHA’s 2018 Scientific Session. 

Researchers have two theories of how oral health and the heart are connected. One way the two are connected is through the body’s bloodstream. Harmful bacteria in the mouth can spread through your bloodstream to the heart, elevating C reactive proteins that are associated with heart attacks. Another theory is that heart disease is your brain and body’s response to inflammation and plaque buildup in the gums and teeth. 

Prevention Is the Best Medicine

Your Los Angeles, CA dentist recommends healthy habits to prevent heart disease. These include:

-Eating a healthy diet chock full of fruits and vegetables. Don’t forget to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and rinse out plaque.

-Regular visits to the dentist. At our L.A. clinic, we stay alert for heart disease indicators and provide thorough dental cleanings to reduce your mouth’s dangerous bacteria.

-Proper brushing and flossing. Make sure to brush and floss at least twice a day.

-Avoid smoking and tobacco use. These substances are not just bad for your oral and heart health, but your entire body, so it’s best to stay away.

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.