Same Day Veneers

If you want to restore the natural, youthful appearance of your smile in as few dental appointments as possible, consider same day veneers in Los Angeles, CA and Dr. Suzanne Haeri, a cosmetic & general dentistry specialist. If you have teeth that are stained, chipped or have large gaps, find out how veneers can help.

Veneers Explained

Veneers are thin tooth-colored materials dentists use to cover the front of your teeth. Along with enhancing strength and resilience, veneers improve the appearance of your teeth. Dentists customize veneers to the shape of your original teeth. During the procedure, your dentist bonds them to the natural enamel on your teeth, giving you long-lasting results.

Compared to crowns and bridges, veneers are less invasive. Additionally, many people choose veneers for their ability to enhance a smile quickly and painlessly. A veneer almost instantaneously brightens your smile, closes gaps and fills chipped or cracked teeth.

In most cases, it takes three scheduled visits to see results when you visit a cosmetic & general dentistry specialist like Dr. Suzanne Haeri in Los Angeles, CA. Same day veneers are popular because you see instant results in one day.

Difference Between Same Day Veneers and Traditional Veneers

Although all veneers are custom-made to fit your teeth, traditional veneers require several weeks for an outside lab to fabricate the design before they're ready for placement. However, advancements in technology now make it possible for dentists to use in-office computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing to design and create veneers on the same day.

Computer software makes impressions of your teeth, and then the impressions are sent to an in-office unit to fabricate the design. So, you'll see a whiter and straighter smile in one day. Keep in mind your dentist may want to schedule a follow-up appointment to ensure the bond between your veneers and your enamel is holding strong.

If you want to improve your smile with instant, lasting results, consider the convenience of same day veneers by visiting a cosmetic & general dentistry expert like Dr. Suzanne Haeri in Los Angeles, CA. Call (310) 657-2200 today to learn more about your veneer options.

Do I Need a Root Canal?

If you're experiencing persistent pain in your mouth, you might need root canal therapy from Dr. Suzanne Haeri in Los Angeles, CA. A specialist in cosmetic & general dentistry, Dr. Haeri is ready to get your teeth and gums looking and feeling their best.

When you hear the term root canal, it may invoke apprehension, tension – and sometimes fear. However, the procedure isn't the same – or nearly as painful – as it was years ago. Advancements in treatment and technology now make a root canal the equivalent of getting a cavity filled. So, do you need a root canal (endodontics)?

What Are Endodontics?

Endodontics deals with your teeth's nerves, and a root canal is the most well-known treatment in this field. When one of your teeth becomes infected, the nerves in your teeth are typically the culprit. To eliminate the infection, a cosmetic & general dentistry specialist in Los Angeles, CA, like Dr. Suzanne Haeri, may perform a root canal to remove the infected nerves.

When Is the Procedure Necessary?

The only way to determine for certain if you need the procedure is to schedule an appointment with your dentist. However, you should know some of the warning signs.

Recurring Toothache/Swelling

If you have a horrible, persistent toothache with swelling, it may be a sign you need the procedure. However, not all tooth pain requires the procedure. In some cases, incorporating meaningful oral hygiene into your daily routine can eliminate pain. If that doesn't work, it's time to schedule an appointment with Dr. Haeri.

Bumps Around Your Gums

If you see a pimple-like bump around your gumline, it may be a sign you have a dental abscess. The bumps typically indicate a severe infection requiring immediate attention. Not only does an abscess induce incredible pain, but it also indicates pockets of pus are forming around your teeth – and it's also a sign your teeth are starting to rot.

Discolored/Darkened Teeth

If one of your teeth recently changed colors to a gray or black shade, it could indicate tooth decay is occurring because of an infection. In some cases, internal tissues around the root of your teeth are starting to break down, requiring your dentist to go in and remove the damaged nerves.

If you're unsure if you need a root canal in Los Angeles, CA, contact Dr. Suzanne Haeri, a specialist in cosmetic & general dentistry, by calling (310) 637-2200.

1 Hour in Office Teeth Bleaching in Los Angeles, CA

Are your teeth looking dull? The cosmetic & general dentistry office of Dr. Suzanne Haeri in Los Angeles, CA offers teeth bleaching in just one hour. If you are ready for a dazzling difference, this procedure can give you the confidence you are looking for.

Many things can make your teeth look discolored. If you drink coffee, tea, or red wine, it can cause stains on your enamel. If you enjoy dark-colored fruits like cherries and blueberries, which are so good for your health, you run the danger of staining your teeth. It is very hard to have a balanced diet and not eat or drink things that are not good for the color of your teeth. If you have tried brushing at home and have not been satisfied with the results, it is time to think about getting in-office teeth bleaching in Los Angeles, CA.

By choosing to have your teeth whitened in the dentist's office, you can be sure that your gums will be protected and that you will get the desired whitening without damage to your teeth. The solution used to treat your teeth will use hydrogen peroxide at a stronger solution level than is used in home kits. The dentist can activate the solution with a special light or allow it to activate on its own.

Before the procedure is approved, the dentist will do a consultation to determine if you are a good candidate for the procedure. If approval is given, the teeth will be professionally cleaned to prepare them for whitening. The gums and lips will be covered to protect them and the whitening gel will be applied to the surface of the teeth. If a special light is applied, it can speed up the process. After the appropriate time, the gel will be removed and the color of the teeth checked. If the desired whiteness hasn't been reached, the solution can be reapplied.

In most cases, teeth can be whitened up to seven shades in an hour-long procedure. You will then be asked to visit the dentist every six months to maintain your new brighter smile. It is always a good idea to maintain your normal cleaning routine and to avoid any of the things that you know have stained your teeth in the past.

If you want to try teeth bleaching in Los Angeles, CA, Dr.Haeri has a cosmetic & general dentistry office that can provide the service you are looking for. Give the office a call at 310-657-2200 for a consultation.

Everything You Need to Know About Sedation Dentistry

Does going to the dentist paralyze you with fear? If so, you are not alone. Fortunately, sedation dentistry from a cosmetic & general dentistry expert like Dr. Suzanne Haeri in Los Angeles, CA may be the answer. From invasive procedures to teeth cleaning, sedation can help relax you during those uncomfortable visits to your dentist.

A Closer Look at Sedation Dentistry

When a dentist uses nitrous oxide, a general anesthetic or medication to relax you during a procedure, it's called sedation dentistry. Although many people associate sedation with going to sleep, most people are actually awake during a procedure. Dentists use sedation to help reduce pain, anxiety and tension during treatment.

The level of sedation you might experience includes relaxed but awake, conscious but groggy or on the edge of consciousness. If a dentist uses general anesthesia, you're normally unconscious. Doctors use general anesthesia when performing an invasive procedure like oral surgery.

Can All Dentists Use Sedation

In most cases, dentists are trained to use nitrous oxide. However, using IV sedation or a general anesthetic requires additional training or special licensing. If you have questions for Dr. Suzanne Haeri about her sedation dentistry experience and her cosmetic & general dentistry training in Los Angeles, CA, feel free to contact us today.

Is Sedation Dentistry Safe?

Although using a general anesthetic or other medications to relax patients poses some risk, sedation dentistry is typically safe. However, some patients may be at higher risk than others, such as those with sleep apnea. Additionally, if you have any pre-existing conditions, you should consult your primary care doctor or Dr. Haeri before you choose sedation.

Is Sedation Right for Me?

Before you choose sedation, you should consider the procedure you're having and how you normally respond to medical procedures. For example, if you're getting your teeth cleaned, you probably don't need sedation – unless the idea of someone using tools in your mouth paralyzes you with fear. And, if you're terrified of needs, IV sedation probably isn't the best choice.

If you're delaying your next dental visit because you associate dental work with pain, contact our team today to learn more about sedation dentistry in Los Angeles, CA and our cosmetic & general dentistry expert Dr. Suzanne Haeri by calling (310) 657-2200.

DentalVibe Injection Comfort System

A trip to the dentist can be anxiety-provoking. Sometimes, no matter how diligent you are with your oral health at home, you may put off getting regular dental cleanings due to the apprehension that there may be pain or discomfort involved. Delaying a dental check-up can be quite detrimental to your overall health and we hope to relieve you of any stress that may be caused when anticipating a visit to the dentist. The experienced dentist, Dr. Suzanne Haeri in Los Angeles, CA uses the DentalVibe Injection Comfort System in the hopes of making your trip to the dentist as painless and comfortable as possible.

What is the DentalVibe Injection Comfort System?

When a shot is necessary during your visit to the dentist, there is usually pain or pinching before your mouth goes numb and you stop feeling the painful sensation. Not with DentalVibe. DentalVibe is a revolutionary system that takes the uncomfortable sensations out of getting shots.

It is an FDA-approved, hand-held device that works by introducing soothing, pulsing vibrations by way of micro-oscillations to the point of injection. This amazing device uses the 'gate control' theory of pain. The sensations provided by DentalVibe act as a gate to pain signals and do not let them pass through. The result is a pain-free injection.

How Does it Work?

When Dr. Suzanne Haeri in Los Angeles, CA uses the DentalVibe Injection Comfort System at the site of the injection, the brain registers the soothing vibration of the DentalVibe before it can register any pain from the shot. Since the vibrations have already been registered by the brain, the neural pain gate is closed and pain signals cannot get through. The pain signals are blocked by the sensations provided by the DentalVibe system, essentially saying to the pain signals "you shall not pass!"

Also, the sound emanating from the device acts as an additional distraction. After the injection, the gentle vibrations of the DentalVibe system will also assist with the goal of the injected solution by helping to massage the area and distribute the anaesthesia or other painkillers more rapidly. This system is incredibly helpful for children and adults with a fear of needles.

DentalVibe Injection Comfort System with Dr. Suzanne Haeri in Los Angeles, CA

A trip to the dentist should not cause anxiety. Consistent, regular dental check-ups need not be delayed due to a fear of pain or discomfort during your appointment. One of the goals at our dental office is to make you as comfortable as possible. Using the DentalVibe system when appropriate is one of the most important ways that we accomplish this. Contact us today to schedule an appointment or for more information about the DentalVibe Injection Comfort System by calling (310) 657-2200.

What is Bone Grafting?

If you have bone loss in your jaw, bone grafting in Los Angeles, CA might be the solution for you. You can rely on Dr. Suzanne Haeri to provide the treatment and care that you need.

 

What is a Dental Bone Graft?

Teeth are held in the mouth by bone in an area referred to as the alveolar ridge. If you lose a tooth or have a periodontal or gum disease, you might lose some of the bone in this ridge. Without it, your mouth cannot support or secure natural teeth. It also means that it can’t support dental implants or other procedures that rely on the jaw bone. Fortunately, a dental bone graft can help. This procedure is used to restore bone loss, ensuring that there is sufficient bone for implants or in order to maintain proper oral health.

 

How is a Dental Bone Graft Done?

Dental bone grafting in Los Angeles, CA is completed by Dr. Haeri making an incision in your jaw. Bone material is then attached to the jaw bone, which encourages regeneration. The natural bone absorbs the grafted bone material and grows, resulting in a full jaw bone.

 

Types of Bone Grafts

The bone material typically comes from one of five different sources. Dr. Haeri will determine the best source according to your needs.

-The first is from bone tissue in another part of the body. Most commonly, it is taken from the hip but might also be taken from the shin, chin, or other areas of the jaw. This is referred to as an autograft.

-An allograft is when the bone tissue comes from another human source, such as a cadaver. The bone is treated to eliminate the risk of reactions or disease.

-An alloplastic graft is when hydroxyapatite, a natural mineral in the bone, is taken from natural or synthetic sources.

-Xenografts are when the tissue comes from animal bones. Most often, cows are the source.

-The last type of graft is when the bone material is made from ceramic. Sometimes, it is mixed with calcium for a more natural solution.

 

How Long Does it Take to Heal?

You will likely need around four to six months to recover before having implants done. However, the length of time will depend specifically on how well your healing is progressing.

 

Learn more about bone grafting in Los Angeles, CA, or schedule your consultation with Dr. Haeri today by calling (310) 657- 2200.

Snap-On Smile

If you are looking to restore your smile, you may want to consider scheduling an appointment with Dr. Suzanne Haeri for a Snap-On Smile in Los Angeles, CA. If you have cracks, chips, or gaps between your teeth, dental appliances like Snap-On Smile can immediately eliminate any self-consciousness you have about your appearance.

 

A Closer Look at Snap-On Smile

In short, a Snap-On Smile is a dental appliance that fits over cracked, broken or chipped teeth. Many people choose dental appliances as an alternative to cosmetic procedures. After a lab manufactures the appliances based on images of a person's teeth, Dr. Haeri will schedule an appointment with patients to fit the Snap-On Smile in Los Angeles, CA to the affected area. In many cases, it takes two weeks to manufacture dental appliances.

 

Types of Materials Used

Dental appliances are mostly made from acetyl resin, which is more durable and flexible than the material used in dentures. Additionally, dental appliances made from this resin aren't as bulky because the material is very thin. However, it does not hinder the strength and flexibility of the appliances. The resin is also non-toxic, which allows patients to wear their dental appliances safely.

 

Snap-On Smile Benefits

Dental appliances offer patients an array of benefits and options, especially if medical conditions prevent them from receiving permanent dental solutions. If people don't qualify for dental services like implants, veneers, crowns, or Invisalign, a dental appliance opens the door to more smile restoration choices. For example, older patients with conditions such as heart disease or cancer may not be good candidates for implants, crowns, or bridges. A Snap-On Smile can eliminate those barriers and help people who want to restore their oral health but might have limited options. Additionally, people are not limited to certain food or beverages when wearing this dental appliance; they're free to eat and drink whatever they like.

 

If you would like a consultation to learn more about how a Snap-On Smile in Los Angeles, CA can quickly restore your natural appearance, contact Dr. Haeri at (310) 657-2200 today.

The Benefits of Dental Implants

In the past when you had missing teeth, there were not many options besides getting dentures or bridges alone to replace them. Now, dental implants offer a method of replacing teeth that fixes your smile and requires no change to your life or eating the foods you love. Dr. Suzanne Haeri in Los Angeles, CA, uses dental implants to give you a new smile that will increase your quality of life and confidence dramatically.

 

What Are Dental Implants?

 

A dental implant itself is not a replacement tooth. It is a replacement root of the tooth that is intended to provide a strong foundation for permanent or removable teeth. The dental implant is inserted into the bone of your jaw and can last your entire life when properly cared for. Historically, it was thought that for patients with insufficient bone in the jaw or who had other health conditions, it was not possible to insert a dental implant. This is no longer the case due to advancements in bone reconstruction and now almost anyone can receive dental implants.

What are the advantages of receiving dental implants from Dr. Suzanne Haeri in Los Angeles, CA? The benefits of getting dental implants are many. Here are just a few:

 

-You can continue to eat your favorite foods: Go ahead and have that taffy, corn on the cob, or peanut butter. There will be no fear of your teeth embarrassingly slipping out of place as sometimes this happens with the use of dentures alone.

-Speaking is made easier: Our teeth play a significant role in the sounds we make. Loose dentures may slip and slide, causing you to have a lisp or sound slurred. Dental implants fix this issue by providing a strong surface for your tongue to press against when talking and providing a strong foundation for dentures so that there will be no slipping.

-Prevention of bone loss and the support of surrounding teeth: Dental implants cause stimulation of the jawbone. This is in opposition to the resorption of the bone where your original decayed tooth root once was. This stimulation is necessary for the rebuilding of bone. Also, the shifting of adjacent teeth will be prevented when the gap is filled in with a dental implant.

-Increased confidence: The knowledge that you can speak, laugh, and eat freely without the anxiety of your teeth slipping out of place will significantly improve your confidence in public and social settings.

-They are low-maintenance: Dental implants require no additional care than what is expected from good oral hygiene habits, including brushing and flossing twice a day, using a mouthwash, and getting regular dental cleanings.

 

Dental Implants with Dr. Suzanne Haeri in Los Angeles, CA

 

Contact our office to learn more information regarding the advantages offered by receiving dental implants by calling (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.

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.

 

Extraction Site Preservation

Sometimes pulling teeth is a necessary procedure for overcrowding in the mouth or infection due to tooth decay. It isn’t a procedure to be taken lightly. Like wisdom teeth removal, where the teeth are located in the back of the mouth and sutures are used, the tooth extraction site essentially becomes an open wound and one that needs to be monitored and given time to heal. Suzanne Haeri DDS in Los Angeles, CA, understands that getting a tooth pulled isn’t very pleasant, but she is committed to making the procedure and healing process as comfortable as she can for all patients. 

If you ever think your healing process doesn’t feel normal, you should contact our office. Signs of complications include:

- Cough, shortness of breath, or chest pain

- Severe nausea or vomiting

- Redness, swelling, or excessive discharge from the extraction site

- Signs of infection, such as fever and chills

Something else to keep in mind when removing teeth is what to do with that open space once it has healed. If a tooth is removed and nothing is done to the extraction site, your jaw bone will degenerate and change shape while the site heals. This can create problems in your bite and may affect chewing and speaking. Make sure you and your dentist come up with a plan to fill this space.

Do you have questions about your extraction site? 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.

 

Impacted Canines

Did you know that our canine teeth are also known as “eye teeth?” It may sound strange, but there’s a logical explanation for the nickname: the canines are simply aligned with the position of our eyes. Our canines are important for biting and guiding the rest of the teeth in position when you close your mouth. Canines also have the longest root compared to the rest of your teeth, making them the last to erupt. Sometimes canines fail to erupt properly, which causes problems for the capacity and appearance of your mouth. Suzanne Haeri DDS in Los Angeles, CA, takes pride in educating her patients about everything dental!

 

An impacted canine simply means that the tooth has failed to erupt through your gums. Some causes of impacted canines include:

 

- Cysts: abnormal growths on the gums

- Overcrowding: when teeth are squished together from lack of space in the mouth

- Extra teeth: when an additional tooth occupies the space where the canine is supposed to erupt

- Ankylosed: when the canine tooth root is intertwined with the surrounding bone

 

There are some additional signs of an impacted canine to look for. This includes the presence of a palatal lump, the delayed eruption of the canine (usually after 15 years old), and the absence of a labial canine lump. If you are experiencing any of these signs, it’s possible that you have an impacted canine.

 

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.

 

Periodontal Disease

Did you know that it’s abnormal for your gums to bleed while brushing your teeth? Your hands shouldn’t bleed when you wash them, but many people seem to think that bleeding from the gums is normal. In actuality, this is a sign of an underlying issue. Suzanne Haeri DDS in Los Angeles, CA, dedicates her time and expertise in educating patients about good oral health. Your Los Angeles dentist will help you achieve the smile you’ve been longing for.

If your gums are swollen and bleeding, these are signs of the beginning stages of periodontal disease known as gingivitis. The gums have been infected with bacteria-infested plaque, which is usually caused by poor dental hygiene or pre-existing conditions. Periodontitis is the advanced stage of the disease, where the teeth can actually be loosened and fall out.

Factors that increase your risk of periodontal disease include:

- Chronic stress

- Certain medications such as antidepressants, diuretics, high blood pressure meds, seizure-controlling meds, and calcium blockers

- Poor nutrition

- Fluctuating hormones

- Diseases such as diabetes, leukemia, inflammatory bowel disease, and HIV

- Teeth grinding

- Crooked or crowded teeth

- Tobacco use

- Genetics

- Poor dental hygiene, especially with braces on your teeth

Do you think you could be experiencing periodontal disease? We will assess what’s going on 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.

 

Pediatric Sealants

Did you know that cavities are common in kids ages five to fourteen? With baby teeth falling out and adult teeth coming in, deep grooves and gaps make it difficult for kids to brush their teeth thoroughly. Suzanne Haeri DDS in Los Angeles, CA, takes pride in educating her young patients about proper oral hygiene. Sometimes, though, certain procedures are required to help young patients prevent cavities. Sealants prevent food from getting stuck in grooves and gaps, which ultimately prevents the process of tooth decay. Your Los Angeles dentist is committed to helping your child stay cavity-free!

In addition to regular brushing and flossing, dental sealants are used in an effort to keep out tooth decay. Sealants are plastic coatings placed on the chewing surfaces of your child’s back teeth. Dr. Haeri fills in the grooves that are hard to reach while brushing with the thin plastic material. This added layer of protection greatly lowers your child’s chances of developing a cavity.

When you help your child prevent cavities at an early age, they are less likely to have oral health problems as an adult. The way they take care of their baby teeth directly affects how taking care of their adult teeth will be. Solidify good dental hygiene habits now by encouraging your child to take care of their teeth properly, and they will be rewarded with a lifetime of good oral health.

Do you think your child could benefit from sealants? 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.

 

How Sugar Affects Your Teeth

Sugar impacts your teeth in a big way. Suzanne Haeri DDS in Los Angeles, CA, takes pride in educating her patients about the importance of restricting sugary foods and drinks. It’s ideal to cut out this kind of food from your diet completely, but it’s understandable that sometimes there’s nothing better than a crisp soda on a hot day. More attention should be paid to, say, how many sugary beverages you drink in a day or week. Is it really adding up? If so, consider restricting your intake for the sake of your teeth.

Sugar easily coats the surface of your teeth and attracts the “bad bacteria,” such as Streptococcus mutans and Streptococcus sobrinus. These destructive bacteria feed on the sugar and disturb the natural pH of your mouth, to the point where the acidity is too much for your teeth. Over time, the enamel on your teeth is broken down little by little. This isn’t ideal since tooth enamel cannot be replaced. Once that natural barrier is gone, it’s gone for good. Improper dental hygiene only speeds up this destructive process.

If you can’t give up sugar completely, then consider these tips to fight tooth decay:

- Watch what you eat and drink. Make sure to incorporate healthy options, such as fibrous vegetables.

- Restrict the sugar. Try drinking more water, your teeth will thank you (and so will your body).

- Practice good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing two to three times a day.

- Visit your dentist regularly. Your dentist will be able to take a closer look inside your mouth, monitor anything suspicious, and give your teeth a good professional cleaning. 

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.