At Alta Loma Dental Care, we Straighten Teeth Discreetly with Invisalign

Having straight teeth would be great, wouldn’t it? You’re probably holding off though, because you don’t want to deal with the embarrassment of having a mouth full of braces. Patients who want to straighten their teeth without the hassle and appearance of metal braces are quickly turning to Invisalign. Thanks to these innovative aligners, we have the ability to straighten your teeth quickly and discretely.

 

Invisalign aligners are plastic, removable mouth pieces that gradually straighten teeth over time. They give less force per week and cause considerably less pain to straighten teeth compared to traditional braces. Since the pieces are transparent, you are able to maintain an aesthetically pleasing smile while improving it at the same time. One of the main complaints of traditional braces, while they are effective, they often leave stain marks on the teeth. This is not the case with Invisalign; patients are able to remove the mouth pieces in order to brush regularly.

 

The mouth pieces are created by a 3D computer imaging technology. As the teeth begin to shift, new aligners will be used to replace the originals. Each aligner is made to perfectly fit the stage that the teeth are in at that time. The mouth pieces are only taken out to eat and brush; they are typically worn at least 22 hours a day.

 

Compared to bracket traditional, Invisalign is a much safer option. Patients who use Invisalign often avoid damage to the gums and supporting tissues. If you choose Invisalign, you will also avoid bacteria build up that would result through traditional braces. The best part is that you can have your regular dental checkups while using Invisalign. Traditional braces prevent X-rays and regular cleanings while the removable aligners used through Invisalign can be removed allowing for dentist access. So we can keep an eye on your teeth’s health while they’re being straightened!

Cosmetic Dentistry

Cosmetic dentistry entails a lot of different procedures that are all meant to improve the general appearance of your teeth, gums and bite. Not all general dentists will provide cosmetic services, finding an all-inclusive dentist can be tough. Luckily, for dental patients in the Alta Loma, CA area, our doctor, Dr. Michael Kim at Alta Loma Dental Care has trained extensively in cosmetic dentistry and offers many different options for you to select from. Whether you have a chipped tooth or you’re suffering from stained teeth, there is a cosmetic procedure available.

 

One of the first things people notice when they are introduced to someone new is their smile. A new-look smile can go a long way in improving self-esteem and give patients a smile they can be proud of. We provide a number of services if you are looking to improve your smile. These options include:

• Veneers
• Teeth Whitening
• Sanp-On Smiles
• Bonding
• Inlays/Onlays

Residents of Alta Loma, CA are taking advantage of these procedures so they can quickly and effectively improve the appearance of their smile through Dr. Kim’s innovative cosmetic procedures.  

With advances in dental technology, there is no need to put up with the embarrassment of an unpleasant smile anymore. Whether its veneers that completely overhaul a smile or bonding that will fix a small crack, patients now have options that will help get the smile they’ve always wanted.  Dr. Kim’s expertise in the cosmetic dentistry field has allowed him to translate many patients’ aspirations into a new smile that completely changes their lives. 

Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea is a very common condition, but many people are not aware that they can go to their dentist for effective treatment options. At Alta Loma Dental Care, we utilize oral surgery to help solve your sleep apnea issues. By removing the excess tissue in the throat that is vibrating and blocking the upper air passages, Dr. Michael Kim is able to treat you for your sleep apnea condition.

 

The main surgical procedure we offer is called Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (try saying that three times fast!), better known as a UPPP. This procedure involves removing the excess tissue from the upper mouth and throat. This procedure is performed in a hospital and you will be put under general anesthetic. Another procedure we offer is Maxiomandibular advancement. This procedure is used to assist with sleep apnea by moving the jaw forward from the rest of the facial bones. This will allow more room behind the soft palate, reducing the obstruction. The final procedure we offer is known as a Tracheostomy. This procedure involves the insertion of a tube into your throat so you can breathe clearly. We only use this procedure as a last result.

 

Traditionally, sleep apnea affects men over the age of forty, but it can be diagnosed in almost anyone, including children. There are different types of sleep apnea, but obstructive sleep apnea is the most commonly diagnosed and treated by dentists. Patients suffering from sleep apnea often report the following symptoms:

• Waking up with a sore or dry mouth
• Loud snoring
• Sleepiness or lack of energy
• Morning headaches
• Restless sleep.

If you exhibit any of these symptoms, schedule a consultation with Dr. Michael Kim at our practice, Alta Loma Dental Care in Alta Loma, CA by calling 909-296-7920. 

Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease (gum disease) is a very serious ailment that affects many Americans. This disease has many repercussions, from tooth loss all the way to heart health; periodontal disease can cause patients a lot of harm in many different ways. At Alta Loma Dental Care, we believe that educating you about conditions like this so you can avoid them at all costs. So with that in mind, we would like to provide you with some information about this disease.  

 

Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in the United States. There are many different forms of periodontal disease but all of them can cause serious damage to the mouth. The mildest form of periodontal disease is gingivitis. Gingivitis causes the gums to become red, swollen and bleed easily. The biggest cause of gingivitis is lack of a regular oral hygiene regimen. Preventative measures, such as regular brushing and flossing, go a long way when it comes to preventing periodontal disease. Gingivitis is reversible with professional treatment and good oral health practices at home.

 

Untreated gingivitis can lead to periodontitis. At this stage, plaque will spread and grow below the gum line. Toxins produced by the bacteria will irritate the gums, causing an inflammatory response. This inflammation leads to the breakdown of tissues and bone that support the teeth. Periodontitis also causes the gums to separate from the teeth, forming pockets that become infected. As the disease progresses, the pockets deepen and more gum tissue and bone are destroyed. Eventually the teeth become loose and have to be removed.

 

If you feel that you might be exhibiting any symptoms of periodontal disease, remember that they are reversible. Call us at 909-296-7920 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Michael Kim at Alta Loma Dental Care in Alta Loma, CA. 

Importance of Cosmetic Dentistry and a Beautiful Smile

Importance of Cosmetic Dentistry and a Beautiful Smile

Did you know your smile can be the primary factor toward whether or not you’re viewed as attractive? Studies and surveys have found that a bright, aligned smile is considered the most important physical feature by the majority of men and women. Bet your cosmetic smile improvement just moved a little higher on your priority list!

Cosmetic dentistry is important for its immediate aesthetic result, but there are a few subsequent effects that make smile improvements beneficial beyond the surface. Like you would with a home, car or anything you’ve invested in, patients who treat their smile as an asset worth their time and money take better care of their teeth on a daily basis. This means better brushing, flossing and regular dental checkups.  A straightened smile makes it easier to banish bacteria, perform through cleaning and identify concerns that could compromise your health. And last but not least, cosmetic dentistry and the results of a brighter, aesthetically pleasing smile make you want to reveal your smile more, which gives you the confidence to make the right impression and put your best self forth. 

If you’re ready to discover how cosmetic dentistry can benefit you, we look forward to your call.

Sources:

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2182380/Smile-Why-white-teeth-sign-good-health-make-attractive.html

http://www.femalefirst.co.uk/health/Smiles+Top+Attractiveness+Poll-1789.html

 

Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease is a severe condition that affects nearly 10% of the population.  What starts with minor infection and inflammation of soft tissue as the earliest stages of gum disease, can escalate into tooth loss, hard tissue damage and spread of severe infection.
 
Recovering from advanced periodontal disease is quite costly and the odds of totally eliminating it aren’t great.  That’s why it’s extremely important to catch any signs of periodontal disease early and get the proper care.  Effective treatment of periodontal disease requires diligent maintenance on your part and professional dental intervention.

If you notice any of the following signs of periodontal disease, it’s of the utmost importance that you see us for care.

• Your gums bleed during or after your brushing and flossing.
• Your gums appear red, swollen and tender, frequently feel sore, and appear to be receding from your teeth.
• You experience bad breath or a foul taste in the mouth even if you’ve just brushed a short while ago.
• Your teeth feel loose or can be physically moved in the gum bed.
• You notice any changes in your bite alignment or the stability of any restorative or prosthetic dental work.

Source:

http://www.nidcr.nih.gov/DataStatistics/FindDataByTopic/GumDisease/PeriodontaldiseaseAdults20to64

Sleep Apnea

When many people think of snoring, they think of noisy nightly disruption that could easily earn the frustration of anyone in earshot.  While some snoring is natural and affects almost everyone at one point or another, chronic, obstructive snoring is a sign of a serious condition known as sleep apnea.  Sleep apnea occurs when tissue in the throat or oral cavity obstructs respiration and blocks sufficient intake of oxygen.

Sleep apnea dentistry deals primarily with this concern.  One of the most common treatments provided through sleep apnea dentistry is the nightly use of a simple oral appliance which prevents the airway obstruction. Most sleep apnea oral appliances are similar to night guards that prevent night grinding.

Many patients are quite satisfied with a night appliance as a form of sleep apnea therapy and the consensuses is that they are more comfortable, flexible and convenient than a CPAP machine and mask, which fits over the mouth and nose and requires electricity.  If you snore, or share a bedroom with someone who does, sleep apnea is a condition that may concern you. We welcome your call and questions on how we can help with sleep apnea dental medicine.

Don't Take a Holiday from Your Oral Health

Dr. Jody Zajacz reminds us that while we are eating, drinking, and being merry over the holiday we can't forget about our oral health. Click on the link below for tips that can help you make your holidays a reason to celebrate.

http://www.insidetoronto.com/blogs/post/1376327-health-don-t-take-a-holiday-from-your-oral-health/

There is still time to schedule an appointment before the year ends. Remember if you don't use all of your insurance benefits before the end of the year they will expire. Call us at 909-987-6268 or visit us at www.altalomadentalcare.com to schedule an appointment today.

All I Want for Christmas is my Two Front Teeth!

Annie Lindsay with the Las Vegas Review Journal wrote an interesting article about keeping all 32 of your teeth as you age. Check it out!

http://www.lvrj.com/view/keeping-teeth-healthy-can-be-a-challenge-with-age-182136361.html

Visit your dentist regularly and report any problems with painful teeth, ulcers lasting more than two weeks, gum abscess, bleeding gums, loose teeth, swelling and soreness or cracks in the corner of the mouth. Ideally, teeth should be cleaned and flossed twice daily. Call us today at 909-987-6268 or visit us at www.altalomadentalcare.com