Tooth discoloration occurs when the enamel, the outermost layer of the tooth, is stained or damaged. This can happen for several reasons, but improper oral healthcare practices are a common contributor. Poor hygiene allows plaque and tartar to build up, leading to stains and discoloration over time.
Continue reading “Tooth Discoloration: What You Need To Know | Rancho Santa Margarita Dentist”
A smile is often considered one of the most powerful expressions, but what happens when that smile is marred by the unexpected – a cracked tooth? The human dentition, while resilient, is not impervious to damage. It’s important to understand the various factors that contribute to the cracking of teeth, shedding light on the silent culprit behind this common dental concern.
Continue reading “How to Crack a Tooth | Rancho Santa Margarita Dentist”
Most dental plans cover routine check-ups, cleanings, and X-rays, while more comprehensive policies may include restorative procedures like fillings, root canals, and even orthodontic treatments. Maintaining optimal oral health is crucial for overall well-being, and dental insurance plays a pivotal role in ensuring access to quality dental care. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the intricacies of dental insurance, empowering you with knowledge to make informed decisions about your oral health coverage.
Continue reading “Understanding Dental Insurance | Rancho Santa Margarita Dentist”
Cold sores, also known as fever blisters, are a common viral infection caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). These small, fluid-filled blisters can appear on or around the lips, causing discomfort and self-consciousness.
Continue reading “Understanding Prevention, Causes, and Treatment of Cold Sores | Rancho Santa Margarita Dentist”
Dentistry, an indispensable aspect of healthcare, has a rich and fascinating history that spans centuries. The evolution of dental practices reflects not only advancements in medical knowledge but also cultural shifts and technological progress. These are the milestones and transformations that have shaped the field of dentistry over the past 350 years.
Continue reading “Dentistry: A Brief History | Rancho Santa Margarita Dentist”
Dental emergencies can strike at any time, causing pain and anxiety. In this guide, we’ll explore common dental emergencies, their causes, and practical steps for immediate relief. Whether it’s a sudden toothache or a knocked-out tooth, being prepared and informed can make all the difference in managing these situations effectively.
Continue reading “What To Know About Dental Emergencies | Rancho Santa Margarita Dentist”
Dental hygiene plays a crucial role in maintaining overall health, yet myths and misconceptions often cloud the path to optimal oral care. In this blog post, we will debunk some prevalent dental hygiene myths to help you make informed decisions and achieve a healthier smile.
Continue reading “The Truth Behind Common Dental Misconceptions | Rancho Santa Margarita Dentist”
Laughter, they say, is the best medicine. But what if you could inhale laughter? Enter nitrous oxide, more commonly known as laughing gas, is a fascinating and widely used anesthetic with a side effect that has everyone smiling – uncontrollable fits of laughter. Let’s take a closer look at this whimsical gas and its surprising role in the world of medicine.
Continue reading “The Lighter Side of Medicine: Exploring the Wonders of Laughing Gas | Rancho Santa Margarita Dentist”
The removal of one’s wisdom teeth is often a dreaded moment, but for most people, it is absolutely necessary to avoid overcrowding. Whether you choose to be sedated for the surgery or go with nitrous oxide, the first 72 hours after surgery are imperative to your recovery and avoiding issues down the road.
Once the procedure is over, your surgeon will place gauze on the surgery site to absorb the blood. They will send you home with extra you can replace the gauze as needed at home, helping to keep the area clean and dry. Once the bleeding has stopped, you can place a moist tea bag on the site to help prevent clotting. You will also want to keep your head elevated, this will help keep the swelling and further bleeding down. Compresses also work well to help keep the swelling down. Apply a cold compress, then a warm one on rotation to the external surgery site every 20 minutes for the first 48 hours. It will help reduce pain and swelling.
After that, your focus should switch to keeping the surgery site as clean as possible as the soft tissue continues to heal. Rinse your mouth with warm or saltwater throughout the day and especially after meals. Your dentist may give you a syringe to squirt water directly onto the surgery site to clear any debris. Swish utilize the syringe carefully, you don’t want to disturb your stitches. If food is left stuck in the soft tissue cavity and stays there as the tissue heals, that debris is likely to become infected over time, requiring another surgery to remove it.
Your dentist will give you all kinds of tips and tricks to help you heal properly, but some of the most important ones to remember are not to use straws as the suction can induce bleeding. Don’t use tobacco because it will hinder the healing process, and don’t engage in strenuous activity as an increased heart rate will increase blood flow and the possibility your surgery site will bleed.
If you would like more information, call Dr. Herd in Rancho Santa Margarita, CA at 949-858-5147 or visit www.gregherddds.com.
Dr. Greg J. Herd proudly serves Rancho Santa Margarita and all surrounding areas.
Porcelain veneers are one of the most common cosmetic dentistry procedures people seek for their smiles. The longevity of your veneers can vary depending on how they are cared for. To get the most out of your veneers, here are some best practices for maintaining them for years to come.
Good Oral Hygiene- Maintaining good oral hygiene such as regular brushing, flossing and incorporating a mouthwash is great for your natural teeth and veneers. Veneers are placed along the gemlike to retain the appearance of being natural, so it’s important to keep your oral hygiene up to avoid a receding gemlike that may expose the veneer.
Avoid Unnecessary Force- Nail biting, chewing ice and forceful brushing can break or dislodge a veneer; they can also be the reason your dentist recommended veneers to begin with. It’s important to make an effort to avoid these habits for the longevity of your veneers.
Stop Clenching and Grinding- This bad habit is a great way to chip or break your veneers over time. Bruxism, or the grinding of teeth at night, can be avoided by incorporating a night guard when you sleep. Reducing stress or finding alternative means to clenching your teeth will also go a long way in maintaining your new pearly whites.
Limit Staining- Porcelain is a material that resists stains, but the dental cement used to keep them in place unfortunately is not. Coffee, tobacco, wine and any other food and beverage that may stain your teeth will stain the cement over time. Eventually, if not properly cared for along the way, the cement will become discolored and look odd against your veneers – or even start to make your veneers look discolored by association.
If you would like more information on veneers or how to care for them, call Dr. Herd in Rancho Santa Margarita, CA at 949-858-5147 or visit www.gregherddds.com.
Dr. Greg J. Herd proudly serves Rancho Santa Margarita and all surrounding areas.