Professional Teeth Whitening

Many of us desire a smile we can be proud of. When dull or stained teeth make you want to hide your smile, something needs to be done! At Alta Loma Dental Care in Alta Loma, CA, we offer professional teeth whitening to bring back a smile you don’t want to cover up.
Professional teeth whitening is the best route to go when looking to whiten teeth. When you trust a dentist, you know you will get great results and it will be done safely. Store-bought whitening kits can be messy, difficult to apply, and they do not offer the results that our professional whitening system can. Plus, there is room for error, which means you can end up harming your teeth and causing sensitivity. Depending on the current shade of your teeth and what shade you desire, our system often produces results four to eight shades whiter.
At Alta Loma Dental Care, we offer take-home whitening trays. These care custom-made trays that you add our whitening solution to every day or night for a short period of time. They are convenient, custom, and offer great results.
Daily habits can over time dull the shine of our smile or cause a yellowish stain. To learn more about the teeth whitening we offer here at Alta Loma Dental Care in Alta Loma, CA, call our office at (909) 987-6268 or visit our website, www.altalomadentalcare.com.

How to Keep Tooth Enamel Strong

Tooth enamel is the hard outer surface layer of your teeth that serves to protect against tooth decay. In fact, tooth enamel is considered the hardest mineral substance in your body, even stronger than bone. At Alta Loma Dental Care your enamel to be as strong as the rest of the bones in your body and you can keep it that way by following these simple steps:

• Limit sugary foods and drinks – bacteria in your mouth feed on sugar from foods and drinks. They produce acids, which soften and wear away your enamel. Chewy candies that stick on your teeth can also cause damage.
• Eat foods that protect enamel – calcium in food counters acids in your mouth that cause decay. It also helps keep your bones and teeth strong. Milk, cheese, and other dairy products help protect and strengthen enamel. If you don’t eat dairy, look for foods with calcium added.
• Avoid over-brushing – You can actually wear down your enamel if you brush too fast and hard. Wait for up to an hour after eating sweets or citrus fruits before you brush your teeth.
• Use fluoride – Fluoride is nature’s cavity fighter because it strengthens your enamel and helps repair the early stages of tooth decay. Using a fluoride toothpaste or mouthwash can help prevent cavities and keep your enamel strong.

If you need assistance with your daily oral care routine, please give us a call. To learn about services we provide at our practice, visit www.altalomadentalcare.com for more information. To schedule an appointment in our Alta Loma, CA office, call Alta Loma Dental Care at 909-987-6268.

Diabetic Oral Care

People with poorly controlled diabetes are more prone to dental problems. They are more likely to develop infections of their gums and the bones that hold the teeth in place because diabetes can reduce the blood supply to the gums. If you have diabetes, please call our office to schedule a professional exam with our doctors at Alta Loma Dental Care to prevent further dental complications.

If you have diabetes, symptoms of dental problems include bleeding and sore gums, frequent infections, and bad breath. Whether you have type 1 or type 2 diabetes, managing your blood sugar level is critical. The higher your blood sugar level, the higher your risk of tooth decay, gingivitis, and periodontitis. Additionally, high blood sugar may cause dry mouth and make gum disease worse. The decrease in saliva can cause an increase in tooth-decaying bacteria and plaque buildup. You can prevent these problems by maintaining good blood sugar control, brushing and flossing and least twice a day, and schedule a dental checkup every six months.

If you have questions about diabetic oral care, please give us a call. To learn about services we provide at our practice, visit www.altalomadentalcare.com for more information. To schedule an appointment in our Alta Loma, CA office, call Alta Loma Dental Care at 909-987-6268.

Don’t Brush Your Teeth Too Hard

Brushing your teeth regularly is considered vital for healthy teeth and gums. However, if you’ve ever heard the expression that “too much of a good thing can be bad for you,” the same rule applies here. Known as “toothbrush abrasion,” over brushing can lead to sensitive teeth and receding gums. It’s important to use the proper brushing technique that our staff at Alta Loma Dental Care has taught you in the past, but it’s also important to use the proper tools.
The people who are most at risk for tooth or gum damage from over brushing are those who are particularly diligent about their oral care and those who use medium or hard-bristled toothbrushes. Toothbrush abrasion causes V-shaped notches in the lower third of the teeth near the gum line. One of our doctors can examine your teeth to see if you have tooth abrasion or erosion. Once the cause of erosion or abrasion is determined and stopped, the process usually ends.
If you have further questions regarding your oral hygiene routine, please give us a call. To learn about services we provide at our practice, visit www.altalomadentalcare.com for more information. To schedule an appointment in our Alta Loma, CA office, call Alta Loma Dental Care at 909-987-6268.

Details on Dental Veneers

Dental veneers, sometimes called porcelain veneers or dental laminates, are wafer-thin, custom-made shells of tooth-colored materials designed to cover the front surface of teeth. At Alta Loma Dental Care, we utilize them to routinely fix teeth that are discolored, teeth that are worn down, or teeth that are chipped or broken. If you wish to enhance the appearance of your smile and are looking for a more advanced treatment option, then dental veneers might be for you.

Veneers are made by a dental technician, usually in a dental lab, working from a model provided by your dentist. Placing veneers is usually an irreversible task, because, in order to complete the course of action, it’s necessary to remove a small amount of enamel from your tooth to accommodate the shell. Veneers do a great job of masking undesirable defects, such as stained teeth, or teeth with gaps between them. Before placing veneers, one of our doctors will assure that you are comfortable with the entire treatment process.

If you believe that you may benefit from dental veneers, please give us a call. To learn about services we provide at our practice, visit www.altalomadentalcare.com for more information. To schedule an appointment in our Alta Loma, CA office, call Alta Loma Dental Care at 909-987-6268.

The Temporomandibular Joint: Explained

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the jaw joint. You have two of them which work together as a pair, one in front of each ear. Without this joint, you would not be able to chew your food, yawn, or even speak. The joints connect the lower jaw bone (mandible) to the temporal bones of the skull on each side of the head. When this joint begins to cause facial pain, headaches, and/or jaw muscle stiffness, our doctors at Alta Loma Dental Care can develop a treatment plan.

When you open your mouth, the rounded upper ends of the mandible on each side of the jaw glide along the joint socket at the base of the skull. They slide back to their original position when you close your mouth. This joint is unique in the sense that the articular surfaces of the bones never actually come in contact with one another – they are separated by an articular disk. This disk splits the joint into two synovial joint cavities, each lined by a synovial membrane. It is important to keep in mind that occasional clicking or discomfort in the jaw joint or chewing muscles is common, but if you have a serious concern for TMD, you should schedule a consultation with Alta Loma Dental Care.

If you have questions about the temporomandibular joint or TMJ/TMD, please give us a call. To learn about services we provide at our practice, visit www.altalomadentalcare.com for more information. To schedule an appointment in our Alta Loma, CA office, call Alta Loma Dental Care at 909-987-6268.

Thank You For Your Testimonials!

Here at Alta Loma Dental Care, our staff appreciates feedback from our customers because it teaches us how to improve as a team. Our staff would not only like to thank Nancy B. for this five-star review, but we would like to thank her for being an excellent patient. If you recently experienced exceptional service from our office, please let us know! 

“Before making my first appointment with this dental office, I dropped in unannounced one day to meet the personnel and have a tour of the facility. Everyone was warm and welcoming. Two weeks later, when I made my first appointment and went in for the initial procedures and a much-needed cleaning, I received the same sincere personal attention. I'm a senior citizen who asks many questions and likes to have procedures explained in detail. That wasn't a problem at Alta Loma Dental! All of my questions were courteously and enthusiastically answered by everyone, and each procedure was thoroughly explained in the same way. I will definitely be returning for my future dental needs.” – Nancy B.

If you would like to leave a testimonial or are interested in learning more about the services we provide at the practice, visit www.altalomadentalcare.com for more information. To schedule an appointment in our Alta Loma, CA office, call Alta Loma Dental Care at 909-987-6268.

Denture Pain Problems

Denture pain typically stems from poor fitting or poorly adjusted dentures. It may also be a result of new dentures, worn over soft tissues that have not developed thick, toughened layers of protective keratin. If you are experiencing gum and mouth irritation, problems eating and speaking, mouth infections and/or dentures that move around in your mouth, give our doctors at Alta Loma Dental Care a call to discuss your treatment options.

If you wear dentures, it is very important you keep your mouth clean and healthy. In addition, you should never experience pain when wearing your dentures. If you do experience pain from your dentures and this discomfort is not treated by speaking slowly, eating soft foods or using an adhesive, your dentures may need to be replaced. At Alta Loma Dental Care, we have plenty of tooth-replacement options for you to choose from if dentures aren’t working out.

If you have dentures that are causing you pain, please give us a call. To learn more about services we provide at our practice, visit www.altalomadentalcare.com for more information. To schedule an appointment in our Alta Loma, CA office, call Alta Loma Dental Care at 909-987-6268.

Tips for Living with Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea is a frustrating condition for both you and any sleeping partners. It often goes hand-in-hand with loud snoring and results in poor sleep quality all around. In addition, it increases the risk of dangerous health conditions like heart failure and stroke. At Alta Loma Dental Care, we are able to provide treatment for sleep apnea here in our Alta Loma, CA office. It will also help to have some at-home tips for helping to control your sleep apnea.

Your Sleeping Position When positioning yourself to go to sleep, try to sleep on your side instead of on your back. This will help you keep your airway more open.
Sedatives The second tip is to avoid sleep aids and alcohol. Sedatives or anything else that can depress your body systems can be a dangerous combination with sleep apnea. If your body is too sedated, it may not wake as easily to force breathing during an apnea episode. This can even result in death in severe cases.

Fit Lifestyle A healthy weight and good nutrition is very important for patients with sleep apnea. Overweight individuals can make the effects of sleep apnea much worse because the extra weight can cause a worsened collapse of your airway while sleeping. Take the necessary steps to keep a healthy weight and to keep good nutrition.

At Alta Loma Dental Care, we offer several different surgery options for sleep apnea. Depending on your case and treatment history, we will determine the best option for you.
If you are struggling with the symptoms of sleep apnea, be sure to seek help. To schedule an appointment with Alta Loma Dental Care of Alta Loma, CA, call our office at (909) 987-6268 or visit our website, www.altalomadentalcare.com.

Sleep Apnea Risk Factors

Sleep apnea is something that can affect everyone. While this is true, there are also risk factors that can increase your risk or make sleep apnea symptoms worse. At Alta Loma Dental Care in Alta Loma, CA, we treat sleep apnea. Keep reading for more information obstructive sleep apnea and its risk factors.

Sleep apnea is hereditary. This means it can be passed down from parent to child. Though sleep apnea is often found in older men who are overweight, it can affect anyone regardless of their gender, age, or size. It can even affect babies and children.

Some factors that increase your risk of obstructive sleep apnea include:

• Being overweight


• Being male


• Being older


• Smoking


• Use of alcohol or sedatives

While these factors can certainly increase the risk of obstructive sleep apnea and worsen symptoms, sleep apnea is not limited to those factors. As mentioned before, men, women, and children of all ages and sizes can have sleep apnea. Often it is caused by the way your airway is structured. Extra soft tissue or a narrow airway can be enough to cause the disturbance. If you are at risk, it is important to cut out factors that you can control like tobacco and alcohol.

It is important to treat sleep apnea for a good night’s sleep and the health of your entire body. To schedule an appointment with Alta Loma Dental Care of Alta Loma, CA, call us at (909) 987-6268 or visit our website, www.altalomadentalcare.com. 

Why Your Teeth May Be Sensitive

Sensitive teeth can be a real pain and frustrating to deal with. At Alta Loma Dental Care in Alta Loma, CA, we are able to talk with you to find out why your teeth may be experiencing sensitivity. Until your appointment with us, check out some of the reasons why it may be happening and evaluate your habits to see if changing them could help.

It is important to see your dentist if you are experiencing sensitive teeth because we need to check to see if it is a cavity or an infection. If it’s not, it is most likely due to worn down enamel. Here is how that can happen:

Brushing Too Hard to Too Soon

When brushing your teeth, you do not have to scrub hard. A light touch with soft bristles is all that is needed to remove plaque. It is more about the technique you use than the strength you use. In addition, do not brush your teeth too soon after eating or drinking anything but water. The acid in our food softens our enamel and if we brush before it hardens again, we could brush away enamel.

 

More Acid

Speaking of the acid in our food, sometimes sensitivity can be caused simply because we are eating too much acid. Pop, candy, and energy drinks contain a lot of acid so make sure these are enjoyed sparingly. Also, while tomatoes and citrus fruits are good for our health, they should also be consumed in moderation. It can also help to rinse your mouth out after consuming foods and drinks with a high acidic content.

 

Grinding Your Teeth

If you notice that you wake up with a sore jaw or sore teeth, you may be grinding and clenching your teeth at night. Some patients even notice themselves doing it during the day. If you think you may be grinding your teeth, see us for a protective night guard.

 

Sensitive teeth can create pain and make you want to avoid some of your favorite foods like cold ice cream or hot apple cider. To schedule an examination with Alta Loma Dental Care in our Alta Loma, CA office, call us at (909) 987-6268 or visit our website, www.altalomadentalcare.com. 

Coping with Dental Phobia

Dental phobia is a more serious condition than anxiety. It leaves people panic-stricken and terrified. People with dental phobia have an awareness that the fear is totally irrational, but are unable to do much about it. People with dental phobia usually go to the dentist only when forced to do so by extreme pain. If you suffer from dental phobia, our doctors at Alta Loma Dental Care will ease your dental fear in a compassionate, friendly atmosphere.

There are varying degrees of dental anxiety and phobia. At the extreme, a person with a dental phobia may never see a dentist. Others may force themselves to go, but they may not sleep the night before. It's not uncommon for people to feel sick — or, in some cases, to actually get sick — while they're in the waiting room. New dental tools and products make it easier to calm dental anxiety; however, to truly calm your fear, a little distraction goes a long way. iPods for your listening pleasure, big-screen televisions, iPads and virtual reality glasses that put your eyes and mind in another realm are common items in the modern dentist’s office.

If you have a fear of the dentist’s office, please inform us while scheduling your appointment. To learn more about services we provide at our practice, visit www.altalomadentalcare.com for more information. To schedule an appointment in our Alta Loma, CA office, call Alta Loma Dental Care at 909-987-6268.

Benefits of Laser Dentistry

The application of lasers in dentistry gives our doctors at Alta Loma Dental Care plenty of opportunities to perform a wide variety of dental procedures that they otherwise may not be capable of performing. Dental lasers can be used to reduce the comfort of canker and cold sores as well as expose partially erupted wisdom teeth, and help treat tooth infections. In dentistry, lasers are a safe and effective way to provide patients with precision treatment that minimizes pain and recovery time.

There are several advantages to laser dentistry. For example, dentists may not need to use a drill or administer anesthesia in some procedures, allowing patients to be more relaxed. Laser procedures are more precise and can reduce symptoms and healing times associated with traditional treatments. In addition, lasers can reduce the bacteria in both diseased gum tissue and in tooth cavities, and control bleeding during surgery.

If you have further questions regarding laser dentistry, please give us a call. To learn more about services we provide at our practice, visit www.altalomadentalcare.com for more information. To schedule an appointment in our Alta Loma, CA office, call Alta Loma Dental Care at 909-987-6268.

How Invisalign Moves Teeth

At Alta Loma Dental Care, our doctors want you to have the healthiest smile achievably possible, and sometimes that may require straightening your teeth. Unlike traditional braces, the Invisalign straightening method includes no irritating brackets in the mouth; however, they do have attachments known as “bumps.” These bumps assist the aligners in moving the teeth to where they need to be once the treatment plan is completed.

These “bumps” are small tooth-colored dots of dental bonding (white filling material) that are placed in specific locations on specific teeth. They may be rectangular, square, circular, or triangular in shape. The shape and orientation of a button are dictated by the purpose it serves, such as tooth rotation, translation, intrusion or extrusion. These attachments assist with the process, as well as how they’re placed and what they look like. As you wear each set of aligners, your teeth gently and gradually begin to shift into place. Approximately every two weeks, you will begin wearing a new set of aligners, discreetly advancing you to the next stage of your treatment.

If you are searching to straighten your smile, give us a call to discuss your orthodontic treatment options. To learn more about services we provide at our practice, visit www.altalomadentalcare.com for more information. To schedule an appointment in our Alta Loma, CA office, call Alta Loma Dental Care at 909-987-6268.

Bruxism Basics

Do you ever wake up from a night’s sleep with sore teeth and jaws? You could be grinding your teeth. The medical term for occasional teeth grinding is called bruxism and although this condition does not usually cause harm, when teeth grinding occurs on a regular basis the teeth can be damaged and other oral health complications can arise. At Alta Loma Dental Care, we can develop an individualized treatment plan to help alleviate this condition.

Stress, anxiety, smoking, heavy alcohol, caffeine, depression and sleep disorders are all possible causes of teeth grinding. Treatment for teeth grinding depends on the cause. In some cases, chronic teeth grinding can result in fracturing, loosening or loss of teeth. Patients may benefit from a mouth guard or a night guard to stabilize the jaw and prevent tooth damage that is caused by grinding.

If you suspect that you’re a “bruxer”, please give us a call to discuss your treatment options. To learn more about services we provide at our practice, visit www.altalomadentalcare.com for more information. To schedule an appointment in our Alta Loma, CA office, call Alta Loma Dental Care at 909-987-6268.

What is an Underbite?

The main cause of an underbite is a misalignment of the lower jaw, which is usually present at birth. An underbite, clinically called prognathism, is the malocclusion or “bad bite” that happens when the lower teeth overlap the upper teeth. Just because your mouth may have this problem doesn’t mean that it’s untreatable. If you have been diagnosed with an underbite, our doctors at Alta Loma Dental Care can correct the problem with dental braces.

Although far less common than overbites, underbites still affect 5-10 percent of the population. An extreme underbite can cause facial abnormality, resulting in an extended chin. In addition to the aesthetic problem, underbites including difficulty with chewing, swallowing and speaking. Underbites may also wear down tooth enamel and increase your chances of developing tooth decay or other dental problems such as TMJ disorder.

If you wish to correct your bite and would like to discuss your orthodontic options, please give us a call. To learn more about services we provide at our practice, visit www.altalomadentalcare.com for more information. To schedule an appointment in our Alta Loma, CA office, call Alta Loma Dental Care at 909-987-6268.

Overbite Overview

If you have been diagnosed with an overbite, this simply means that your top teeth extend beyond your bottom teeth. It is a common dental problem that our doctors at Alta Loma Dental Care can correct with braces. Overbite teeth are considered a type of “bad bite.” It can either be noticeable or unnoticeable, but it some extreme cases it can make your jaw look significantly larger or your bottom jaw look much smaller.

Most often, overbites are inherited as traits just as the color of your eyes or the freckles on your cheeks. Other causes of misaligned bites may result from an early loss of baby or adult teeth, gum disease, or common oral health problems in children, such as thumb sucking. Once one of our doctors confirms your overbite with X-rays, he or she may take regular photographs of your face to further examine the relationship between the teeth, jaws, and head. From there, an individualized treatment plan will be developed to correct the bite.

If you wish to correct your bite with orthodontic treatment, please give us a call to discuss your options. To learn more about services we provide at our practice, visit www.altalomadentalcare.com for more information. To schedule an appointment in our Alta Loma, CA office, call Alta Loma Dental Care at 909-987-6268.

Avoiding Uneven Staining After Braces

Preventing staining can keep a smile white and bright and it is even more important while you are wearing braces. Because the brackets are usually in place for at least a year, staining can lead to uneven marks when the braces come off. At Alta Loma Dental Care in Alta Loma, CA, we offer professional teeth whitening; however it is nice to know how to avoid staining, as well.

The main part of keeping a white smile is keeping a great dental hygiene routine. This includes brushing your teeth for the recommended amount of times and doing a thorough job. It will help to brush after every meal. Just be sure to wait at least thirty minutes after eating to protect your enamel. Also, be sure to hit spots like the roof of your mouth, your inner cheeks, and your tongue. These places, especially your tongue, can collect bacteria just like your teeth. It will help to pick up some extra supplies like an interdental cleaner and floss threaders. These make it easier to clean around the brackets and wires.

When it comes to dark foods and drinks, they are okay every now and then but try to avoid consuming them frequently. Examples of these foods are cranberries, tomato soup, coffee, and tea. Liquids can be sipped through a straw to minimize contact. Rinsing your mouth out afterward can also help deter any lasting staining.

Interested in perfecting your smile? Inquire about our orthodontic options and professional teeth whitening. To schedule an appointment at Alta Loma Dental Care in Alta Loma, CA, call (909) 987-6268 or visit our website, www.altalomadentalcare.com. 

TMJ Exercises

TMD is a condition that affects the TMJs, causing pain, stiffness, and a lot of frustration. Here at Alta Loma Dental Care in Alta Loma, CA, we can provide experienced and effective treatment for TMD. These exercises may also help with relaxing your jaw and increasing range of motion. However, if any of these exercises make the pain worse, do not continue.

Relax

To help relax your jaw, smile the biggest, widest smile as you can while keeping your jaw open about two inches. Hold this post for five seconds and then release. You can do this exercise several times until you begin to feel your jaw and facial muscles relax.

Strengthen

This exercise will help strengthen the ligaments around your jaw and it will help relax the muscles you use to close your mouth. Close your mouth, keeping your teeth together, but not clenched. Place the tip of your tongue on the roof of your mouth, right behind your front teeth. Move your tongue backwards until the tip touches your soft palate. Gently and slowly open your mouth until your tongue is separated from the soft palate. Keep your mouth open for five seconds and then close your mouth. Repeat this exercise slowly for five minutes.

Stretch

To stretch your tight jaw, start with your mouth closed but with your teeth slightly parted. Place your thumb under your chin and apply gentle pressure. With your thumb creating pressure, open your mouth. Do this exercise ten times. Gradually, you will notice you can open your mouth comfortable more and more.

If you notice you are having difficulties with your TMJs, be sure to schedule an appointment with us for help. To schedule at Alta Loma Dental Care in Alta Loma, CA, call us at (909) 987-6268 or visit our website, www.altalomadentalcare.com. 

Facts on Fluoride

Fluoride is a natural mineral found throughout the earth’s crust and widely distributed in nature and is often added to water to help reduce tooth decay. Research has shown that fluoride not only reduces cavities in children and adults, but it also helps repair the early stages of tooth decay, even before the decay is visible. Here at Alta Loma Dental Care, our doctors can discuss professional fluoride treatments with you to see if you are a prime candidate.

When fluoride reaches your teeth, it is absorbed into the enamel. Fluoride helps to repair the enamel by replenishing the lost calcium and phosphorus to keep your teeth hard through a process called remineralization. When fluoride is present during this process, the minerals deposited into the tooth enamel help strengthen your teeth and prevent dissolution during the next demineralization phase. The results are stronger tooth enamel and a cavity-free grin.

If you think you may benefit from fluoride treatment, please give us a call. To learn more about services we provide at our practice, visit www.altalomadentalcare.com for more information. To schedule an appointment in our Alta Loma, CA office, call Alta Loma Dental Care at 909-987-6268.

Selecting a Mouthwash to Meet Your Needs

Mouthwash or rinses are used for a variety of reasons: to freshen breath, to help prevent or control tooth decay, to reduce plaque, to prevent or reduce gingivitis, to reduce the speed that tartar forms on the teeth, or to produce a combination of these effects. Mouthwash has a few beneficial properties and our doctors at Alta Loma Dental Care would like to explain some of them.

• Antimicrobial agents act directly on oral bacteria to help reduce plaque, decrease the severity of gingivitis and control bad breath.


• Fluoride helps reduce tiny lesions (tooth decay) on tooth enamel and make teeth more resistant to decay.


• Astringent salts can serve as temporary deodorizers that mask bad breath.


• Odor neutralizers act by chemically inactivating odor causing compounds.

If you desire a brighter smile, please give us a call to discuss your treatment options. To learn more about services we provide at our practice, visit www.altalomadentalcare.com for more information. To schedule an appointment in our Alta Loma, CA office, call Alta Loma Dental Care at 909-987-6268.

What Causes Worn Down Teeth?

Worn down teeth can lead to sensitivity, gum irritation, and it can even make you prone to cavities. At Alta Loma Dental Care, we want our patients to be educated on how to keep a healthy smile. Read on to learn what can lead to worn down teeth. Also, visit our Alta Loma, CA office for your routine examination and more dental advice.

 

Brushing Too Hard

The purpose of brushing teeth is to remove plaque and other debris. Plaque is a thin, sticky film that covers teeth, but it is very soft and easily removed. All it takes is some light scrubbing with a toothbrush that has soft bristles. Using excessive force or stiff bristles can actually harm your teeth by wearing down your enamel.

 

Home Whitening

Many patients have seen these at-home whitening kits while scrolling through Pinterest. It promises bright, white teeth while using something that you probably already have in your pantry; however, baking soda is very abrasive. If used too much, it can lead to very worn down enamel, making your teeth prone to cavities. In addition, worn down enamel tends to darken teeth, the opposite of what you were trying to accomplish! For safe, professional whitening, contact us!

 

Acidic Drinks

Another way that patients can damage their tooth enamel is by drinking large amounts of acidic drinks like pop. The acid in your favorite cola can gradually eat through enamel. Stick to keeping pop and other acidic beverages as treats for now and then, not daily drinks. In addition, wait at least thirty minutes after drinking an acidic drink to brush your teeth. The acid softens our enamel which can then be brushed away. Waiting at least thirty minutes will allow the enamel to re-harden.

Remember to keep a great at-home oral hygiene routine and visit us for your checkups! To schedule an appointment with Alta Loma Dental Care in Alta Loma, CA, call our office at (909) 987-6268 or visit our website, www.altalomadentalcare.com. 

How Does a Dental Bridge Replace a Tooth?

Replacing your missing teeth will allow you to chew properly, it will help maintain your jaw structure, and it keeps your smile looking like you. One option for tooth replacement we offer here at Alta Loma Dental Care in our Alta Loma, CA office is the dental bridge. Being around for a long time, the bridge is a popular option.

Dental bridges work by attaching a replacement tooth to dental crowns. The dental crowns are placed on the teeth next to where the opening is and the replacement tooth sits snugly in the opening. Dental bridges are made to last a long time and they can look just like the rest of your teeth. Here at Alta Loma Dental Care, we have a dental laboratory create a completely custom crown for each of our patients.

To get started with the bridge process, first, your teeth adjacent to the opening are reshaped so that crowns can be fitted on them. Next, an impression of the area is taken so the dental lab can create the bridge. You will wear a temporary bridge while your permanent bridge is being created. When it is ready, the bridge arrives with the replacement tooth, called a pontic, attached to one or more crowns. We then cement the bridge into place.

Tooth replacement is important for a variety of reasons. If you have recently lost a tooth, do not hesitate to find out your replacement options. To schedule an appointment with Alta Loma Dental Care of Alta Loma, CA, call our office at (909) 987-6268 or visit our website, www.altalomadentalcare.com. 

Bad Habits to Stay Away from While Wearing Braces

While wearing your braces, it is important to follow any precautions. Holding onto bad habits while wearing braces can slow down the process or damage the braces. At Alta Loma Dental Care in Alta Loma, CA, we want all of our patients to understand how to take good care of their braces. Keep reading to learn about habits to avoid.

Biting Hard Objects

Biting your fingernails is already bad for your teeth, but when you bite them while wearing braces, it could create enough pressure to cause one of your brackets to break or pop off. Even if the brackets remain intact, the pressure will make the braces less effective, therefore delaying treatment. The same goes for biting pencils, water bottles, etc. While wearing braces, you should even stay away from hard foods like raw carrots, bagels, and popcorn. In addition, skip sticky foods like caramel and gum.

 

Brushing Abrasively

When brushing your teeth, only a light scrubbing with a soft bristled toothbrush is needed to remove plaque. Brushing too abrasively can wear down enamel and while wearing braces, it can damage brackets or wires.

 

Daily Sweet Tooth

Do you have a sweet tooth? Sugar leads to cavities so eating too much of it daily can really affect your teeth. If you drink pop every day, especially, consider cutting down. Not only is pop filled with sugar, but is also often has acid that can lead to the wear-down of enamel.

Wearing braces should be a healthy experience for your teeth so they are in great shape when the braces come off. To schedule an appointment at Alta Loma Dental Care in our Alta Loma, CA office, call us at (909) 987-6268 or visit our website, www.altalomadentalcare.com. 

Oral Cancer Detection

Oral cancer is a malignant growth that affects any part of the oral cavity, including the lips, upper or lower jaw, tongue, gums, cheeks, and throat. Anyone can get oral cancer, but the risk is higher if you are male, over age 40, use tobacco or alcohol or have a history of head or neck cancer. Understanding the causative factors of cancer will contribute to the prevention of the disease. Your health is important to us and you should schedule regular dental checkups with our staff Alta Loma Dental Care to detect oral cancer early when it is the easiest to treat.

The most common symptom of oral cancer is a sore in the mouth that bleeds easily and does not heal. Another common sign of oral cancer is developing pain in the mouth that does not go away. Our doctors at Alta Loma Dental Care can examine the mouth and throat as part of a routine checkup if you are concerned about developing oral cancer. During regular checkups, abnormal tissue changes and oral cancer can be detected at its earliest stage when there is a greater chance for a cure.

If you are concerned about oral cancer, please give us a call to discuss your prevention options. To learn more about services we provide at our practice, visit www.altalomadentalcare.com for more information. To schedule an appointment in our Alta Loma, CA office, call Alta Loma Dental Care at 909-987-6268.

Choosing a Toothpaste That’s Right for You

When stepping foot into the dental health aisle at the drugstore, our doctors at Alta Loma Dental Care understand that the selections of toothpaste can be overwhelming. Should you go for tartar control, fluoride, sensitive, or whitening toothpaste? How do you decide? When it comes to choosing the toothpaste that is best for you, it’s important to consider your unique oral health needs. The best way to discover what those are is by scheduling an oral exam with one of our doctors here in Alta Loma, CA. In the meantime, here are some options to consider while browsing:

• Anti-cavity: This type of toothpaste contains fluoride. Fluoride plays an active role in preventing decay, and it actively strengthens tooth enamel.


• Anti-gingivitis: If you spit blood in the sink, this is an early sign of gingivitis, a mild form of gum disease. Anti-gingivitis toothpaste reduces oral bacteria and can be very effective at stopping gingivitis in its tracks.


• Desensitizing: If you’ve ever bit into an ice cream cone and felt a sharp pain in your tooth’s nerve, this type of toothpaste will provide relief by blocking the tooth’s pain signal to the nerve.


• Tartar-control: This toothpaste does exact what it says, however, the best way to remove tartar is by scheduling a professional dental cleaning with one of our doctors.


• Whitening: This toothpaste contains chemicals that are able to help maintain the natural color of your teeth.

If you have questions about oral hygiene and dental health, don’t hesitate to give us a call. To learn more about services we provide at our practice, visit www.altalomadentalcare.com for more information. To schedule an appointment in our Alta Loma, CA office, call Alta Loma Dental Care at 909-987-6268.

Dental Abscess Details

An abscess is an infection in or around the root of the tooth which may or may not be painful. It occurs when the pulp, the soft tissue inside the root canal, dies and becomes inflamed and goes untreated. The most common symptom of an abscess is an ache in the bone around the tooth, but you may also experience pain when chewing, or swelling of the gums. If you are currently experiencing any of these symptoms, give our staff at Alta Loma Dental Care a call today.

A dental abscess is usually treated with endodontic surgery. If necessary, our doctors at Alta Loma Dental Care will remove the bacteria from the empty canals within your tooth, clean, shape and fill the root canals, and seal the space. In addition, a crown or other restoration will be placed on the tooth to protect and restore it to full function. After the new restoration, your tooth will be good as new.

To learn more about the services we provide at our practice, visit www.altalomadentalcare.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Alta Loma Dental Care in Alta Loma, CA, call 909-987-6268.

Stages of Gum Disease

If you don’t practice a proper oral hygiene routine on a daily basis, you’re already headed down the road toward gum disease. Gum disease is an inflammation of the gums that can progress to affect the bone that surrounds and supports your teeth and there are three that you need to be aware of. You should always schedule professional cleanings and oral exams with our doctors at Alta Loma Dental Care twice a year to avoid them.  

• Gingivitis – This is the earliest stage of gum disease, an inflammation of the gums caused by plaque buildup at the gum line. If daily brushing and flossing do not remove the plaque, it produces toxins that can irritate the gum tissue, causing gingivitis. This is when you’ll notice blood in the sink after you complete your brushing routine. However, at this early stage, damage can be reversed, since the bone and connective tissue that hold the teeth in place are not yet affected.


• Periodontitis – This is the second stage of gum disease. By this point, the supporting bone and fibers that hold your teeth in place are irreversibly damaged. Your gums may even begin to form a pocket below the gum line, which traps food and plaque.


• Advanced Periodontitis – This is the final stage of gum disease, and the fibers and bone supporting your teeth are officially destroyed. In this case, your teeth may begin to shift or loosen and your bite may also be affected. If aggressive treatment can’t save them, the teeth will need to be extracted.

If you suspect you have gum disease, please give us a call to discuss your treatment options. To learn more about the services we provide at our practice, visit www.altalomadentalcare.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Alta Loma Dental Care in Alta Loma, CA, call 909-987-6268.

Tender Teeth Habits

If you avoid eating cold foods or drinking hot beverages because your teeth are a little tender, it may be time to get to the root of this problem. Sometimes the solution is simply breaking bad habits. If you catch yourself performing any of the following habits, our doctors at Alta Loma Dental Care recommend doing your best to break them.

• You’re brushing too hard – over time, if you brush with too much force, you can wear down the protective layers of your teeth and expose the microscopic hollow tubes or canals that lead to your dental nerves. When these tubules are exposed, tooth sensitivity is a result.


• You’re eating too many acidic foods – If the pathways to your nerves are exposed, acidic foods will leave you in pain.


• You have tooth decay – If you have tooth decay, it’s easy for bacteria to accumulate in these tiny crevices, which causes acid build-up and enamel breakdown.


• You’re a tooth grinder – Grinding your teeth can wear down your enamel. This exposes the dentin and causes sensitive teeth.

If you have sensitive teeth, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at our practice, visit www.altalomadentalcare.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Alta Loma Dental Care in Alta Loma, CA, call 909-987-6268.

Foods to Avoid with TMJ Dysfunction

When dealing with TMJ, it can be frustrating at first. It helps to know what can trigger or prolong pain. At Alta Loma Dental Care in Alta Loma, CA, we want our patients suffering with TMJ to know what foods to avoid.

Crunchy foods like chips and popcorn can be very aggravating to the TMJs. Hard foods like raw vegetables can also irritate the TMJs because of how much force the jaw uses to bite through them. However, since veggies are an important part of your diet, try cooking them so they become softer and easier to chew.

Chewy foods are another type of food that should be avoided when you have TMJ dysfunction. The constant chewing motion and the amount of pressure needed to chew through these foods can cause inflammation. Avoid chewing gum, sticky candies, and tougher cuts of meats and seafood. If you want seafood, choose a more tender option like fish. Meats should also be tender.

Cutting your food into smaller pieces will also help, as overextending the jaw sometimes triggers TMJ pain. To schedule an appointment at Alta Loma Dental Care in Alta Loma, CA, call our office at (909) 987-6268 or visit our website, www.altalomadentalcare.com. 

How Gum Disease Starts and Progresses

Gum disease can be irritating, painful, and can lead to disastrous dental health. At Alta Loma Dental Care in Alta Loma, CA we want our patients to know how gum disease progresses and how to prevent it.

Gum disease is a condition where the gums become unhealthy. They may start out red, painful, swollen, and they may bleed frequently. If left untreated, gum disease may cause teeth to fall out. It can also cause bad infections that may spread if not stopped. Gum disease increases the risks of stroke and heart attack.

Gum disease develops due to bad oral hygiene. When plaque and tartar build up, it irritates the gums and causes them to pull away from the teeth. This recession creates deep pockets where bacteria can harbor and cause further damage.

In order to prevent gum disease, you must brush your teeth two to three times per day and floss once per day. Flossing is very important not to skip; bacteria can begin to cause damage after it has been sitting in between teeth for twenty-four hours. In addition, visit us for routine professional cleanings.

Gum disease may start without any major signs, but it can turn serious if not treated. To schedule an appointment with Alta Loma Dental Care in Alta Loma, CA, call us at (909) 987-6268 or visit our website, www.altalomadentalcare.com. 

What Purpose Do Teeth Serve?

Teeth are extremely useful. Without them, we wouldn’t be able to chew our food or talk to our friends. At Alta Loma Dental Care, it is our job to take care of all your teeth, but if you’ve ever wondered why your teeth look the way that they do, that’s because they each serve a different purpose in your mouth. Read on to learn more!

The types of teeth we have and their functions are listed below:

• Incisors – located at the front of the mouth, these teeth have a sharp biting surface and are used for cutting or shearing food into small chewable pieces.


• Canines – located at the ‘corners’ of the dental arches, these teeth have a sharp pointed biting surface. Their function is to grip and tear food.


• Premolars – Unlike incisors and canines, these teeth have a flat biting surface. Their function is to tear and crush food.


• Molars – The molars are the largest teeth in the mouth and they too have a large flat biting surface. The function of these is perhaps the strongest of all as they chew, crush, and grind food.

If you have questions about your teeth, please give us a call to discuss your treatment options. To learn more about services we provide at our practice, visit www.altalomadentalcare.com for more information. To schedule an appointment in our Alta Loma, CA office, call Alta Loma Dental Care at 909-987-6268.

Parade Those Pearly Whites!

It’s no secret that a whiter smile boosts self-esteem, but sometimes it takes a little more than maintaining proper oral hygiene to achieve it. At Alta Loma Dental Care, we offer cosmetic services that can restore the natural color of your teeth or even make them whiter than your natural color, if you would like. However, if there’s any reason you can’t go the cosmetic route at this moment, we want you to utilize these tips to show off the smile you already have!  

• Be natural – when it’s picture time, smile gently. That way, your face looks relaxed. Your mouth opens slightly, and your lower lip matches the curve of your upper teeth.


• Check your teeth and gums – getting your smile camera-ready sometimes calls for a little behind the scenes prep work. If your pearly whites have yellowed with age, try an over-the-counter whitening product or pay us a visit! Also, don’t forget about taking care of your gums. They play a critical role in your nice smile. So keep them in good shape by brushing, flossing, and rinsing with a mouthwash every day.


• Practice – your perfect smile may not happen overnight, but if you have a big photo event like a wedding or a graduation coming up, it doesn’t hurt to try out your grin in front of the mirror!

If you desire a brighter smile, please give us a call to discuss your treatment options. To learn more about services we provide at our practice, visit www.altalomadentalcare.com for more information. To schedule an appointment in our Alta Loma, CA office, call Alta Loma Dental Care at 909-987-6268.

Oral Care with Hand Trouble

Taking care of your teeth while you are struggling with arthritis or another condition that hinders the use of your hands can be tough. Here at Alta Loma Dental Care in Alta Loma, CA, we want all of our patients to feel like they can provide excellent dental care for themselves. Read on to learn about ways to make brushing and flossing easier on troublesome hands.

For brushing, start with the toothbrush. You will want a toothbrush with a thick, non-slip grip handle. This makes it easier to hold and easier to maneuver around the mouth. In addition, a small head will also make maneuvering easier so you can reach all of the spots in your mouth. An electric toothbrush may be a good investment since it does most of the work; you just need to hold it in the right place. There are also toothbrushes out there that are specifically designed for patients with arthritis.

For flossing, it helps if you tie the floss into a loop. This makes it easier to hold and wrap around your hands. It also helps you with controlling the floss. Floss picks can also be a help as you do not need to hold onto the actual floss at all.

Make sure that frequent visits to your dentist for cleanings and examinations are part of your oral care routine. You want to be sure that any missed areas are cleaned up.

To learn more about dental hygiene or to schedule an appointment, contact Alta Loma Dental Care of Alta Loma, CA at (909) 987-6268 or visit our website, www.altalomadentalcare.com. 

Avoiding Bad Breath

Bad breath can ruin a moment without you even knowing it. Whether you are sharing a car ride with a friend, at a lunch meeting, or on a date, fresh breath is a must. Fresh breath is also an indicator of a healthy mouth. At Alta Loma Dental Care in Alta Loma, CA, we’re giving our patients some tips on keeping fresh breath all day long.

Fresh breath comes down to a few different things; cleanliness, hydration, and food. Bacteria are what causes breathe to have an unpleasant smell. Therefore, it is important to keep a good oral hygiene routine. Brush your teeth two or three times per day and floss once per day. You may not think flossing has much to do with it but bacteria form between your teeth and sit there until you floss! Also, be sure to clean your tongue, the roof of your mouth, and the insides of your cheeks.

Hydration is important because bacteria thrive in dry mouth conditions. Make sure you are drinking your share of water which is on average about thirteen cups for men and nine cups for women. Also, skip drinks that can dry out your mouth such as alcohol and caffeine.

Certain foods can also contribute to bad breath. Dairy especially contains certain types of bacteria that contribute to bad smells. This why coffee is often a double whammy for creating bad breath, it has caffeine and often times it has milk or creamer. On the other hand, yogurt actually has bacteria in it that fight off the bad odor-causing bacteria. So maybe have a yogurt parfait with that cup of joe!

To learn more about dental hygiene, visit our website. To schedule a cleaning and examination with Alta Loma Dental Care in our Alta Loma, CA dental practice, call our office at (909) 987-6268 or visit our website, www.altalomadentalcare.com. 

Post-Extraction Care

After an extraction, the site is a wound that needs to heal. At Alta Loma Dental Care of Alta Loma, CA, we want all of our patients to experience smooth and healthy healing after extractions. Follow these instructions to promote healing and avoid infection.

After an extraction, there will probably be some bleeding. You want to do everything you can to help minimize the bleeding and eventually stop it. Do not drink through a straw, participate in strenuous activity, or rinse your mouth out vigorously for the first day after your extraction. In addition, lay down with your head propped up with a pillow to avoid extra blood pressure to the area.

You also want to keep the area as clean as possible. It is important to continue to brush and floss your teeth. Be very careful around the extraction site. Keeping your mouth as clean as possible will help avoid infection.

Eat foods that you will not need to chew. Thin, non-chunky soups, yogurt, smoothies without the straw, and pudding are good ideas to have on hand. For any pain, take the pain medication prescribed by your dentist as directed. Advil or Tylenol can help, if you were not prescribed medication. A warm and gentle salt water rinse may also help with pain and swelling.

Follow these guidelines to help your mouth heal quickly and healthfully. With any questions or concerns, contact us. To schedule an appointment with Alta Loma Dental Care in Alta Loma, CA, call our office at (909) 987-6268 or visit our website, www.altalomadentalcare.com. 

Cosmetic Options to Brighten Your Smile

A cosmetic change to your smile can do wonders. If you are not confident in your smile, what are you waiting for? At Alta Loma Dental Care in Alta Loma, CA, we have several options for cosmetic dentistry that can turn up the wattage on your smile!

If you are looking to brighten and whiten your smile, our custom take-home whitening trays are able to provide professional whitening results from the comfort of your own home. We make custom whitening trays out of impressions of your teeth so that they fit perfectly. Often our patients see results four to eight shades whiter.

Bonding is another great way to get whiter teeth that last a long time. Dental bonding is the process of applying composite resin to teeth. For purposes of fixing chips, cracks, gaps, and more, the resin is matched to the color of your teeth. For whitening purposes, the resin can be made brighter than your shade of teeth. Bonding can last for up to ten years or even longer with good care.

For complete smile overhauls, we offer veneers and Snap On Smile. Veneers are ceramic shells that are permanently bonded to your existing teeth. They can fix many types of dental imperfections and provide long lasting whitening. Snap On Smile provides a brand-new smile that you can even take out for events like sports or sleeping.

Next time you look in the mirror, be confident in your smile! Come see us for a cosmetic consultation. To schedule an appointment in our Alta Loma, CA office, call Alta Loma Dental Care at (909) 987-6268 or visit our website, www.altalomadentalcare.com. 

Taking Care of Your Infant’s Teeth

After weeks of listening to your baby cry from discomfort, you finally spot that first little tooth bud. Our doctors at Alta Loma Dental Care want you to know that baby teeth may be small, but they’re important because they act as placeholders for adult teeth. Without a healthy set of baby teeth, your child will have trouble chewing and speaking clearly. To avoid that, we have suggestions for taking care of your infant's teeth.

It’s critical to take care of baby’s gums right away. But at first, you will not be using a toothbrush or toothpaste. Instead, you should grab a soft, moistened washcloth or piece of gauze and gently wipe down your baby’s gums at least twice a day. Especially wipe your baby’s gums after feedings and before bedtime to avoid baby bottle decay. The reason being that the sugary liquids pool around the teeth for long periods of time as your baby sleeps, leading to cavities that first develop in the upper and lower front teeth. 

If you have further questions regarding your child’s oral hygiene habits, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at our practice, visit www.altalomadentalcare.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Alta Loma Dental Care in Alta Loma, CA, call 909-987-6268.

What is Xylitol?

Xylitol is a natural sweetener derived from the fibrous part of plants. It does not break down like sugar and can help keep a neutral pH level in the mouth. Perhaps you’ve seen the name on a label of American Dental Association (ADA) chewing gum or chewing gum that is simply, “sugar-free.” This is because xylitol protects the teeth from decay, and consuming it is highly recommended by our dentists at Alta Loma Dental Care.

Tooth decay happens when bacteria in your mouth consume the sugars we eat. When you eat food containing ordinary sugar, it gives bacteria on your teeth energy, allowing them to multiply and start producing acids that can attack your tooth enamel. Due to the dental benefits of xylitol, the acid attack that would otherwise last for over a half an hour is stopped in its tracks. Research has also shown that the use of xylitol also helps repair damage to the enamel. So next time you’re strolling through the candy aisle at a convenience store, you may want to look for a label that mentions this sugar substitute.

If you have further questions regarding xylitol, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at our practice, visit www.altalomadentalcare.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Alta Loma Dental Care in Alta Loma, CA, call 909-987-6268.

Reasons You May Need a Tooth Extraction

Although permanent teeth can last a lifetime, teeth that have become damaged or decayed may need to be removed or extracted. The most common reason for tooth extractions are typically the removal of wisdom teeth, because with them, the patient is at risk of infection. Before one of our doctors at Alta Loma Dental Care considers extraction, every effort will be made to repair and restore your tooth first. However, sometimes tooth extractions are unavoidable.

Other reasons for tooth extraction include:

• Some people have extra teeth that block other teeth from coming in.


• Sometimes baby teeth don’t fall out in time to allow permanent teeth to come in.


• People getting braces may need teeth extracted to create room for teeth that are being moved into place.


• Some teeth may need to be extracted if they have the potential of becoming infected.

If you have a tooth that is causing you pain, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at the practice, visit www.altalomadentalcare.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Alta Loma Dental Care in Alta Loma, CA, call 909-987-6268.

How Do Teeth Become Discolored?

Yellow teeth can be mild or severe, but either way, a white smile is what everyone desires. At Alta Loma Dental Care of Alta Loma, CA, we want our patients to be aware of how teeth turn yellow, so they can avoid staining and feel proud to flash their smile!

 When teeth have surface stains, these stains can eventually penetrate the enamel and reach the dentin of the tooth. The dentin is the dental pulp of the tooth in the center. It contains a soft tissue that can turn dark if stains reach it. When the dentin becomes discolored, it tends to turn the whole tooth a darker or yellowish color. Professional whitening services are able to reach past the enamel, not only lifting surface stains but lifting stains from the dentin, as well.

This penetration is why a good oral hygiene routine is important. Surface stains cannot hang around for long if a brush is continually working to polish them away. Plus, when you remove plaque, that limits the amount of time stain-causing food or drinks can sit on the teeth.

If you are looking to whiten your smile, it helps to know just how stains are caused in the first place. To learn about our whitening procedure here at Alta Loma Dental Care in Alta Loma, CA, call our office at (909) 987-6268 or visit our website, www.altalomadentalcare.com. 

The Dangers of Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea is a dangerous condition and should be treated as such. If you or someone you know suffers through the symptoms of sleep apnea, it is important to get treatment for it. At Alta Loma Dental Care, we offer treatment for sleep apnea and want our patients in the Alta Loma, CA area to know the dangers of ignoring sleep apnea.

Obstructive sleep apnea occurs when the soft palate collapses while sleeping. This creates a blockage in the windpipe, significantly reducing the amount of air that gets by, or even completely stopping any air from getting by. It is often accompanied with loud snoring.

Sleep apnea causes severe fatigue due to the constant sleep interruptions. Even if you do not remember waking up, your body wakes up when it recognizes it isn’t breathing. In addition to your interrupted sleep, any sleeping partners may also have frequently interrupted sleep due to the loud snoring.

Because the body is not breathing normally throughout the night, serious health issues can arise. These issues include a higher risk of stroke and heart failure, liver problems, and hypertension.

Sleep apnea is nothing to take lightly.  If you suffer through sleep apnea, we offer several options for treatment in our Alta Loma, CA office. To learn more, call Alta Loma Dental Care at (909) 987-6268 or visit our website, www.altalomadentalcare.com. 

The Difference Between Plaque and Tartar

Many people know that plaque and tartar are bad for your teeth and gums, but many do not know the difference between the two. To achieve optimal oral health, at Alta Loma Dental Care of Alta Loma, CA, we want our patients to know the difference and why knowing is important.

Plaque and tartar happen when you do not brush your teeth properly or you frequently miss a hard-to-reach area with your brush. They are what cause cavities and gum disease. It can also lead to bad breath. While they are both bad for you, they are different. Well, technically they are the same, but in different stages.

Plaque forms on your teeth within hours of brushing. It is a thin, sticky substance created from the food we eat, the drinks we drink, and even our saliva. It coats our teeth. Plaque is easily brushed and flossed away. Since it forms just hours after brushing, this is why it is important to brush your teeth at least two times per day.

Tartar is what forms when plaque is not removed. Plaque will begin to crystalize and it hardens on the surface of your teeth. At this stage, it is only able to be removed by a dentist. Tartar can lead to gum disease, and since only a dentist can remove it, you do not want it to form in the first place.

Remember to brush your teeth two times per day. If a third time is possible, squeeze it in! Also, remember to floss every day to get in between your teeth. To schedule a cleaning and examination with Alta Loma Dental Care in our Alta Loma, CA office, call us at (909) 987-6268 or visit our website, www.altalomadentalcare.com. 

The Problems Smoking Causes for Oral Health

Smoking is bad for your health in many ways. One of the ways smoking wreaks havoc on your health is right where the smoke enters your body; your mouth. Alta Loma Dental Care of Alta Loma, CA wants to remind our patients why today is the best day to quit smoking.

Smoking is terrible for your lungs, your heart, your blood vessels, and pretty much every body system you have. It is a known cause of cancer, which includes mouth cancer. Cigarettes can cause abnormalities to form on the tongue, the gums, the lips, and the throat.

Smoking also causes more plaque, which can cause more build-up. It increases the risk of gum disease and creates a risk for cavities three times greater than those who do not smoke. In addition, smoking lowers your ability to fight infection, so gum disease or tooth infections can be much worse for a smoker.

In addition to the health risks that smoking poses, it also creates aesthetic oral problems. Smoking stains teeth and since smoking is habitual, your teeth will likely only get darker and darker until you quit. It can also create chronic bad breath due to how much it dries out your mouth.

If you are looking for more reasons to quit smoking, there is a ton just for oral health, alone. To learn more about Alta Loma Dental Care of Alta Loma, CA, call our office at (909) 987-6268 or visit our website, www.altalomadentalcare.com.