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. 

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.

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.

Tips for Tongue Hygiene

So you brush and floss your teeth two to three times a day as is recommended. That’s great! But did you know that you should also be brushing your tongue? Just as your teeth and braces are covered in food and bacteria throughout the day, so is your tongue. Your tongue has its own nooks and crannies that it could be carrying just as much bacteria as your teeth. This creates the perfect environment for bad breath. Suzanne Haeri DDS in Los Angeles, CA, has a couple of tips to get you on the right track to good tongue hygiene.

We know what you’re thinking, “isn’t my tongue cleaned enough with toothpaste and a good rinse?” Unfortunately, like your teeth need a good scrubbing to get them clean, so does your tongue. That buildup on your tongue is so tough to remove that even mouthwash doesn’t always do the job. If anything, mouthwash successfully removes the top layer of bacteria, but what’s underneath can still thrive. The bacteria can lead to not only bad breath but tooth damage.

Every time you brush your teeth, brush back and forth and side to side on your tongue to remove some of that buildup, then rinse with water. Be careful not to over brush though, it would be very uncomfortable if you broke the skin! Just a gentle yet thorough brushing will do the trick. Some people prefer tongue scrapers, though there is no proven evidence that tongue scrapers prevent bad breath. 

Are you due for a routine checkup with Dr. Haeri? We can help with that! 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.

Night Guards

Night guards are placed in the mouth to act as a “cushion” during sleep to prevent someone from grinding or gnashing their teeth together. Some people actually do this during the day as well. Grinding your teeth, also known as bruxism, damages enamel, wears down teeth, causes jaw pain, and irritates gums. If you think you are grinding your teeth, Suzanne Haeri DDS in Los Angeles, CA, can help you.

Severe teeth grinding can lead to tension-type headaches and disorders in the temporomandibular joints (TMJ), where a clicking noise is heard when you open and close your mouth. Teeth grinding has also been seen in quite a few children. According to WebMD, “approximately 15% to 33% of children grind their teeth.” The first step to preventing teeth grinding is to determine what is causing it. Sometimes a night guard or change in lifestyle is all you need to prevent it.

There are several factors that increase the chances of grinding your teeth:

-Stress and anxiety

-Age (though common in children, bruxism goes away by adulthood)

-Aggressive or competitive personality type

-Psychiatric medications

-Smoking tobacco

-Consuming caffeine or alcohol

-Family history of teeth grinding

-Other disorders such as Parkinson's, dementia, gastroesophageal reflux disorder (GERD), epilepsy, night terrors, sleep apnea, and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

Do you think you’re experiencing bruxism and want to try a night guard? We are happy to address any questions or concerns you might have. 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.

Root Canals

One of the most notoriously known procedures in endodontics is the root canal. Endodontics focuses on the nerves of the teeth. As you may know, anything that affects a nerve in the body is quite painful. It is vital that steps are taken toward the prevention of ever needing a root canal. Suzanne Haeri DDS in Los Angeles, CA, is committed to educating her patients about proper dental hygiene at home and the importance of regular dental cleanings.

When bacteria infect the root canal of a tooth, a root canal procedure is required to eliminate this bacteria, prevent reinfection, and save the natural tooth. When a patient undergoes a root canal, the inflamed pulp caused by the bacteria is removed, then the inside of the tooth is disinfected, filled, and sealed carefully. If the natural tooth is saved with a root canal, there are many advantages for the patient. Benefits include protection from the other teeth getting worn or stained, normal biting force and sensation, natural appearance, and better chewing.

Signs that you might need a root canal include:

-Swollen or tender gums

-A chipped or cracked tooth

-Pimples on your gums

-Pain while chewing or biting

-Darkening of your gums

-Sensitivity to hot or cold, even after the sensation has been physically removed

Are you suffering from a severe toothache? Hurry in for a checkup! can 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.

Importance of Dental Hygiene

Kids hear it, the neighbor hears it, grandma hears it: take care of your teeth! It goes for everyone, especially if you are going through orthodontic treatment. Avoid complications by brushing and flossing daily and seeing your dentist yearly for professional cleanings. Suzanne Haeri DDS in Los Angeles, CA, takes pride in educating patients about the importance of proper oral hygiene. Help us help you keep your smile looking good for years to come!

Did you know that there is a connection between oral health and overall health? Sometimes what’s going on inside your mouth can be an indicator of what’s going on inside your body, and vice versa. Mayo Clinic says “Studies suggest that oral bacteria and the inflammation associated with a severe form of gum disease (periodontitis) might play a role in some diseases.” Some diseases, like diabetes and HIV/AIDS, have the potential to lower the body’s resistance to infection, causing oral issues to be more severe in patients afflicted with these diseases. On the other hand, patients with poor dental hygiene are at a higher risk for problems like cardiovascular disease or pneumonia.

For good oral hygiene, try to:

-Brush and floss twice a day

-Use mouthwash after brushing and flossing

-Eat a healthy diet with plenty of fibrous foods to act as “nature’s toothbrush”

-Limit sugar and acidic beverages

-Replace your toothbrush every three months

-Schedule regular checkups and cleanings with your dentist

-Avoid chewing or smoking tobacco products

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.

 

Wisdom Teeth

Wisdom teeth that do not have enough space to develop correctly can cause numerous problems in the mouth. Complications include the trapping of food which makes an environment for cavities and disease to form, the crowding or damaging of neighboring teeth, and root damage (which is irreversible). It is recommended that you see Suzanne Haeri DDS in Los Angeles, CA, for regular checkups, so that any issues involving the development of your wisdom teeth will be addressed as soon as possible. Dr. Haeri is also committed to preserving overall oral health in patients.

You may need to get your wisdom teeth removed if you show signs of:

-Pain/aching/tenderness

-Infection

-Cysts

-Tumors

-Damage to surrounding teeth

-Gum disease

-Tooth decay

Before making any decisions to extract wisdom teeth, Dr. Haeri will first examine your mouth and take an X-ray. Under the care of Dr. Haeri and an expert team, you and your family will rest easy knowing that you are in safe hands throughout your visit. We understand that wisdom teeth extractions sound scary, but it’s best to have them removed to avoid headaches and constant pain in the back of the mouth. Keep in mind, when your wisdom teeth come in as much as they can, you should have them removed as soon as possible. The younger you are, the easier the procedure will be since the wisdom teeth roots aren’t fully developed by that time. This will also help with a quicker recovery time.

Does your mouth ache but you’re unsure if it’s your wisdom teeth causing the discomfort? We are happy to address any questions or concerns you may have. 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.

 

Baby Bottle Tooth Decay

Also called early childhood caries (ECC), bottle mouth, and infant caries, baby bottle tooth decay occurs when a child’s teeth come into contact too often with sugary snacks and drinks. This also includes milk and infant formula. Suzanne Haeri DDS in Los Angeles, CA, is committed to educating parents about helping their children develop good oral hygiene habits. The earlier good habits are instilled, the more likely children will maintain them through adulthood. 

 

The complications that arise from baby bottle tooth decay can be as severe as your child not developing speech properly. This is a serious problem since children are essentially sponges, taking in information and constantly learning. Baby bottle tooth decay can make speech development difficult with nasty infections and chronic pain. 

 

Prevent baby bottle tooth decay by:

 

- Flossing your child’s teeth after they’ve all grown in

- Brushing your child’s teeth as soon as they start growing in

- Taking your child to regular dentist check-ups

- Encouraging healthy eating habits

- Limiting your child’s sugar intake

- Teaching your child how to drink from a cup at six months of age

- Weaning your child off the pacifier

- Wiping your infant’s gums after a feeding

 

Do you think your child could be suffering from baby bottle tooth decay? We can take a look at what’s going on and get your child 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.