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.