New Year, New Smile

It’s time for 2017 to come to an end and it’s time to ring in 2018 with a new perspective. We tend to set goals and resolutions around this time of the year, but have a hard time putting them into play when New Year comes. If you’re looking for a goal to commit to, our doctors at All Coast Dental suggest putting the focus on your oral health. It’s a new year, so give you a new smile.

Our doctors at All Coast Dental can assist with all of your oral health needs. Whether you desire to whiten your teeth, enhance their appearance through cosmetic procedures, or wish to straighten them through orthodontic treatment. We always welcome new patients and do our best to answer any questions you may have. If you wish to discuss your smile goals, schedule a consultation as soon as possible.

If you have questions or concerns regarding dental health, please give us a call. To learn about services provided at our practice, visit www.allcoastdental.net for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at All Coast Dental in Pacific Beach, CA, call 858-270-4904.  

Diabetes and Implants

We at All Coast Dental in Pacific Beach understand that our patients may have conditions which complicate their oral health. One of the most common of these is diabetes, which puts patients at higher risk for developing gingivitis and periodontitis. Many of our diabetic patients worry that they need or may need prosthetic teeth, but are uncertain whether they can receive implants.

This question has been subject to many studies, but a consensus is emerging that diabetic patients are often good implant candidates. It is true that placement of implants requires surgical incisions and people with uncontrolled diabetes take longer to recover from wounds. Another complicating factor is that people with diabetes often suffer from chronic inflammation, and inflammation is thought to be a warning sign of a failing implant. However, reviews of the medical literature undertaken by the American Dental Association found people with uncontrolled diabetes have comparable rates of implant failure to non-diabetic and patients with controlled diabetes, and that the failure rates are very low. Patients receiving implants do require more careful monitoring while recovering from the incisions, which is a factor to consider, but diabetic patients need not worry that fixed prosthetic teeth are off-limits to them.

Drs. Julie and Joseph Boulos operate All Coast Dental at 2180 Garnet Ave, Suite 1-K, Pacific Beach, California, 92109. To schedule an appointment, call 858-270-4904 or visit AllCoastDental.net and fill out a contact sheet.

 

Tooth Decay in Seniors

At All Coast Dental, we put particular emphasis on oral care for seniors. Children are the demographic cavities most commonly occur in, but seniors are the second-most vulnerable. According to the most recent information from the Centers for Disease Control, one in five seniors had untreated tooth decay, making this a vital issue for seniors’ comfort and health.

Members of older generations usually did not have access to fluoridated water while their teeth were developing, making them particularly vulnerable to tooth decay (also known as dental lesions or caries). However, cavities commonly develop in seniors who previously had good oral health, implying that something changed which made their oral hygiene more difficult. There are a number of possible causes: poor dexterity, forgetfulness, change in diet to foods that are stickier or likelier to get caught between the teeth, and loss of dental care coverage, for example. Seniors also are commonly on medications with side effects that put them at higher risk for tooth decay. Dry mouth is a common side effect of cancer medications which makes it more difficult for the body to remove food debris and keep bacteria growth under control.

Seniors benefit from using toothpaste with extra fluoridation and throat moistening products. We can also introduce them to products appropriate for their specific needs while carrying out regular cleanings.

Drs. Julie and Joseph Boulos operate All Coast Dental at 2180 Garnet Ave, Suite 1-K, Pacific Beach, California, 92109. To schedule an appointment, call 858-270-4904 or visit AllCoastDental.net and fill out a contact sheet.

 

Wisdom Teeth Extraction

Wisdom teeth are the third and final set of molars that develop between the ages of 17-24. Wisdom teeth can either erupt or stay impacted (under the gum). When wisdom teeth are impacted, this increases a patient’s risk of developing an infection. The safest way to avoid this is to discuss extraction with one of our doctors at All Coast Dental.

While oral surgery is no picnic for anyone, having wisdom teeth extracted provides more benefits to the patient than leaving them intact. Wisdom teeth can lead to gum pain, headaches, and can cause damage to surrounding teeth. Before deciding if your wisdom teeth need to be extracted, our doctors will explain the procedure and assure that you are as comfortable as possible before proceeding.  

If you have questions or concerns regarding wisdom teeth extraction, please give us a call. To learn about services provided at our practice, visit www.allcoastdental.net for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at All Coast Dental in Pacific Beach, CA, call 858-270-4904.  

Seal Out Cavities with Dental Sealant

Children are prone to cavities but dental sealant can help prevent them. At All Coast Dental, our doctors use dental sealant – a thin coating that is painted on the chewing surfaces of teeth to protect against decay. Though brushing and flossing remove leftover food particles, it may not always be easy for your child to do a thorough job. Sealants are usually applied as a preventive measure to keep the mouth cavity free.

Brushing and flossing may remove plaque from the teeth, but sometimes extra measures need to be taken. Dental sealants add extra protection to vulnerable areas of the teeth that are prone to decay. When bacteria become trapped in these areas, cavities will develop. Dental sealant is a safe and effective way to stop them in their tracks. Don’t hesitate to ask about dental sealants during your child’s next checkup.  

If you have questions or concerns regarding pediatric dental services, please give us a call. To learn about services provided at our practice, visit www.allcoastdental.net for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at All Coast Dental in Pacific Beach, CA, call 858-270-4904.  

Oral Cancer Screenings

The doctors and staff of All Coast Dental take pride in serving the families from our community and looking out for the condition of your smiles and oral hygiene.  We also screen for oral cancer, and it is important that you and your family are aware of oral cancer and how to prevent it.  Oral cancer screening may not be the most common reason you’ve visited a dentist, but regular screenings are the best way to protect yourself.

Heavy smoking and drinking do increase the risk of oral cancer, but oral cancer can still occur if someone never smokes.  The human papilloma virus (HPV) was recently found to be responsible for most oral cancers that originated in the back of the mouth.  Because there is no way to predict cancer, you should ask about an oral cancer screening with each dental checkup.  Your dentist will conduct a visual exam, and may use an ultraviolet light to see any irregularities inside the mouth. Always contact us if you notice any inexplicable pain, swelling, or numbness in your throat or jaw.

To learn more about oral cancer screenings and all the services we provide at our practice, visit www.allcoastdental.net for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at All Coast Dental in Pacific Beach, CA, call 858-270-4904.  

Causes of Bleeding Gums

Do you taste iron after you’ve chewed something tough or sticky? Do you see blood when you spit? These problems, caused by gingivitis, affect a lot of people, but they should not be accepted as normal. Gingivitis indicates health problems which could become more serious if they are not addressed.

Gingivitis is the result of acids produced by bacteria when they feed. Bacteria are present in a healthy mouth, but problems arise when they grow out of control. This can occur if there is a large amount of sugar available to them. The acids stick to plaque, the sticky substance on the outside of teeth which hardens into tartar. Trapped acid irritates the surrounding gum tissue, causing it to swell and turn red and making it bleed easily.

Most patients can combat gingivitis by brushing their teeth more regularly, although it is important that they do so for two full minutes during each session and that they only use soft-bristled toothbrushes (hard-bristled toothbrushes cause bruising). But patients cannot clean under their gum lines and require deep cleanings from professional dentists and hygienists to remove plaque on this level. Pregnant women are particularly vulnerable to gingivitis and should be especially sure to keep regular appointments.

Drs. Julie and Joseph Boulos operate All Coast Dental at 2180 Garnet Ave, Suite 1-K, Pacific Beach, California, 92109. To schedule an appointment, call 858-270-4904 or visit AllCoastDental.net and fill out a contact sheet.

 

Problems with Fillings

One of the first dental procedures people learn about as children is the use of fillings to repair cavities. When patients suffer from small bits of decay (known as caries), a white-colored filling can repair the appearance of their smile and prevent bacteria from hiding in a cavity. But while the tooth may be sensitive immediately after the decayed material is removed, prolonged pain is not normal and is a sign that patients should come in for an examination.

When a filling is first placed, it may be shaped badly and prevent the patient from closing their jaws together. It also may not be large enough to fill in the gap. These are both rare events but need to be fixed immediately. More commonly, the filling becomes painful years after it was placed due to the normal wear and tear of chewing having worn out the seal holding it in place. Fillings are not permanent solutions; they usually last for about ten years. Of course, trauma could cause a filling to come loose sooner. When the area around a filling is painful, it is probably because bacteria has entered through the cracks in the seal and are causing more decay. The sooner an old filling is replaced, the less likely it is that a larger restoration will be necessary.

Drs. Julie and Joseph Boulos operate All Coast Dental at 2180 Garnet Ave, Suite 1-K, Pacific Beach, California, 92109. To schedule an appointment, call 858-270-4904 or visit AllCoastDental.net and fill out a contact sheet.

 

Acid Reflux and Tooth Decay

Acid reflux is a painful condition, but most patients may not know how bad it is for their teeth. At All Coat Dental, we regularly see the ravages of this disease on enamel, and want our patients to better understand it and what can be done.

Stomach acid is extremely corrosive. The stomach has a thick mucus lining to protect itself, but when acid escapes into the esophagus, it causes burns which could turn into ulcers or tumors. If it gets as far as the mouth, the inward-facing surfaces of the upper teeth which are usually the most affected. Decay caused by acid reflux is a gradual process in which the teeth first appear glazed, then pitted and cracked. It painfully weakens enamel and reduces the teeth’s grinding surfaces, impeding their function.

Patients can reduce how frequently they suffer acid reflux by maintaining better diet and posture. Fried foods, garlic and onions, citrus juice, chocolate, and alcohol are known to be contributors to acid reflux. But to fix enamel erosion that’s already occurred, they may need restorations such as white fillings and partial crowns.

Drs. Julie and Joseph Boulos operate All Coast Dental at 2180 Garnet Ave, Suite 1-K, Pacific Beach, California, 92109. To schedule an appointment, call 858-270-4904 or visit AllCoastDental.net and fill out a contact sheet.

 

Drink Water to Save Your Teeth

Fluoride is nature’s natural cavity fighter and can be found in the water that we drink. Choosing water over sugary beverages is a much better decision for your teeth. Water cleans the mouth with every sip, and because of this, our doctors at All Coast Dental encourage you to drink more to protect your teeth from decay. Water not only strengthens teeth, it delivers healthy nutrients to our bodies to keep us healthy.

If your dental health is a cause for concern, drinking more water may be the solution. Sugary beverages may wash down your meal, but they provide no nutritional benefits for tooth enamel. Drinking water, however, washes away leftover food particles that have been left behind. It also dilutes the acids produced by harmful bacteria in the mouth. Drinking water may improve your smile, but it won’t protect against cavities alone. Be sure to maintain a rigorous oral hygiene routine to protect your teeth from decay.

If you have questions or concerns regarding dental health, please give us a call. To learn about services provided at our practice, visit www.allcoastdental.net for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at All Coast Dental in Pacific Beach, CA, call 858-270-4904.  

Sugar and Tooth Decay

Most of us indulge in our fair share of sugary beverages, but those sugary drinks are harming our smiles with every sip. Considering that the average can of Coca-Cola have 10 teaspoons of sugar, our doctors at All Coast Dental encourages patients to limit sugar intake to avoid tooth sensitivity and to protect teeth from tooth decay.

Food and beverages that contain sugar create acid attacks that are harmful to tooth enamel. This is because the plaque that is left on teeth use sugar to thrive and stick to the tooth’s surface. Though children are more prone to cavities caused by sugar, this doesn’t mean adults are out of the woods. To protect teeth from decay, keep your mouth as clean as possible by drinking water, or low-acidic beverages such as milk. Additionally, you should be practicing proper oral hygiene and visit us twice a year for dental checkups.

If you have questions or concerns regarding dental health, please give us a call. To learn about services provided at our practice, visit www.allcoastdental.net for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at All Coast Dental in Pacific Beach, CA, call 858-270-4904.  

Scaling and Root Planing

In its most advanced stages, gum disease can lead to gum recession and even tooth loss.  All Coast Dental wants to help you make sure it never gets to that stage.  When sticky bacteria called plaque builds up on a tooth, the gum starts to pull away from the tooth and form a pocket around the buildup.  This only leads to more gum recession.  Scaling and root planing are used to treat this bacterial buildup and prevent the later stages of gum disease.

Scaling and root planning are two parts of a deep cleaning procedure your dentist can perform to help repair gums. The procedure begins with scaling, the process of removing plaque from the surface of your teeth all the way down to your gums. This is followed by root planing, which involves minor contouring to smooth the surface of a tooth near the root.  Once the plaque has been removed and the tooth root has been smoothed, the gums that have pulled away have a clean, smooth surface to reattach to!

To learn more about scaling, root planing, and all the services we provide at our practice, visit www.allcoastdental.net for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at All Coast Dental in Pacific Beach, CA, call 858-270-4904.  

Mouth Guards for Sports

The doctors at All Coast Dental take a lot of pride in serving the families from our community.  With kids back in school and resuming activities, we want families to know we can help them take an important safety precaution for sports and physical activities.  Athletes participating in any contact sport are advised to wear some kind of mouth protection. Wearing a mouth guard during sports helps prevent damage to the teeth, jaw, cheeks, and even the tongue and lips.

Sporting goods stores carry mouth guards, but they are generic in size and fit.  These mouth guards often end up feeling bulky and uncomfortable, leading to child and teenage athletes in particular not wearing the protection at all. An ill-fitting mouth guard can even interrupt breathing and speaking.  Come see us and have a dentist perform a custom mouth guard fitting.  You’ll get a mouth guard made of thin, hard plastic that protects your teeth and still fits comfortably, and you can go right back to playing your best.

To learn more about mouth guards and all the services we provide at our practice, visit www.allcoastdental.net for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at All Coast Dental in Pacific Beach, CA, call 858-270-4904.  

Veneers

At All Coast Dental, our doctors can help give you the opportunity to totally makeover your mouth with veneers. Veneers are made from a thin ceramic shell and fit over your existing teeth, allowing you to completely change the appearance of your smile.  Patients with cosmetic issues like staining, cracked or chipped teeth, and even crooked teeth and small gaps can achieve a dazzling smile with veneers.

Our patients can have a new smile using veneers in as little as two visits. First you and your dentist discuss the shape and look you want for your new smile.  Once your teeth are prepared for the treatment, an impression of your teeth is taken. This impression is sent to a dental laboratory to make the final product.  Ask us about temporary cosmetic options for you to wear for the two weeks it may take for the custom product to be fabricated. On your final visit, the veneers are bonded to the surface of your teeth for you to wear home and wear forever.  Veneers let you make a dramatic change to the appearance of your smile and still look natural, so contact us for a smile makeover!

To learn more about veneers and all the services we provide at our practice, visit www.allcoastdental.net for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at All Coast Dental in Pacific Beach, CA, call 858-270-4904.  

Brush Your Tongue

When you’re brushing and flossing your teeth do you show your tongue any toothbrush love?  If not, you should start. Food particles that form plaque buildup don’t just sit on your teeth, they harbor on your tongue as well. To improve your dental health, finish your dental care routine with a tongue cleaning. Our doctors at All Coast Dental recommend investing in a tongue scraper to reap the maximum benefits.  

Brushing your tongue is effective in reducing bad breath and even tooth damage. However, a tongue scraper provides a more thorough cleaning. Tongue scrapers are affordable and can be purchased at your local drugstore. This tool is used to scrape the bacteria that food leaves behind on the tongue. Cleaning your tongue is just as important as cleaning your teeth because you are removing harmful bacteria that can lead to decay.

If you have questions or concerns regarding oral hygiene and dental health, please give us a call. To learn about services provided at our practice, visit www.allcoastdental.net for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at All Coast Dental in Pacific Beach, CA, call 858-270-4904.  

When Dental Bonding Breaks

Dental bonding has many advantages. It’s helpful in repairing imperfections in teeth that have been chipped, cracked, or fractured. Dental bonding uses a special tooth-colored composite resin to restore a tooth that may need improvements. Though it may look and feel like natural tooth enamel, it provides less strength than the real deal. If you’ve had dental bonding applied to your teeth, it can last up to ten years with proper oral hygiene. When it breaks, however, you’ll need to visit our doctors at All Coast Dental.

Tooth bonding can break for several reasons. Perhaps you bit too hard on something crunchy, or you’ve eaten too many acidic foods which can damage the bonding over time. If you’ve had a bonding procedure completed on a tooth and you notice any chips, you should contact our doctors immediately. This is a sign that the bonding may be ready to chip off completely.

If you have questions or concerns regarding dental bonding, please give us a call. To learn about services provided at our practice, visit www.allcoastdental.net for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at All Coast Dental in Pacific Beach, CA, call 858-270-4904.  

Causes of Tooth Sensitivity in Children

We welcome children at All Coast Dental and are happy to help them with tooth aches and sensitivity. As with adults, there are several different potential causes which should be investigated, but some are more likely to occur in children and could be the first sign of a more general health issue.

Teeth are usually a little sensitive when they first erupt, but this should dissipate within a few days. If a child is suffering from a persistent toothache, the most likely reason is a cavity. Also known as caries, cavities are caused by a certain type of bacteria that feeds on sugar and produces acid which then demineralizes tooth enamel.  This disease process usually can be prevented by better hygiene and reducing the frequency that a child eats foods high in fermentable carbohydrates (like candy, sugary drinks, cookies).

It is also possible that the child is brushing too hard and causing gum recession. This would leave the sensitive tooth roots exposed, which would make drinking hot and cold liquids painful. A dull ache in the upper teeth could be caused by a sinus infection. A toothache might also be caused by jaw grinding or clenching, which could also cause headaches and pain in the ear, jaw, and neck, as well as tooth damage.

Drs. Julie and Joseph Boulos practice at All Coast Dental at 2180 Garnet Ave, Suite 1-K, Pacific Beach, California, 92109. To schedule an appointment, call 858-270-4904 or visit AllCoastDental.net and fill out a contact sheet.

 

Prevent Periodontitis

If you’ve been told you have symptoms of gingivitis, it’s time to start brushing better. Gingivitis occurs before periodontitis and unlike gingivitis, periodontitis is not reversible. Periodontitis is defined as inflammation around the tooth. This serious gum infection damages the soft tissue and bone that surrounds the tooth, eventually leading to decay. Our doctors at All Coast Dental want you to keep your permanent teeth forever, so allow us to tell you how you can prevent periodontitis.

Periodontitis begins with plaque – a sticky biofilm that wreaks havoc on tooth enamel. To prevent plaque buildup, the solution is simple – keep your mouth as clean as possible. In addition to visiting us twice a year for routine cleanings, you should be brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing at least once a day. If you notice that your gums are bright red/purple, are receding, or if your gums are bleeding while brushing, call us immediately so we can treat the problem before it progresses.

If you have questions or concerns regarding periodontal disease, please give us a call. To learn about services provided at our practice, visit www.allcoastdental.net for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at All Coast Dental in Pacific Beach, CA, call 858-270-4904. 

ClearCorrect Braces

If your crooked smile is leaving you with a lack of self-esteem, have no fear, our doctors at All Coast Dental are here with ClearCorrect. ClearCorrect is an alternative to traditional braces and uses a series of clear aligner trays to shift teeth into their correct position. These virtually invisible aligners are custom-made for your mouth and your mouth only so that you can build a revitalized look without anyone noticing.

While visiting All Coast Dental for a consultation, one of our doctors will take impressions and X-rays of your teeth. These will then be sent to the ClearCorrect laboratory where an exact 3D model of your teeth is created. Once you are given the aligners, you will need to wear them for a recommended 22 hours a day to maximize their potential. Because they are removable, you will be able to eat, drink, brush, and floss, as you normally would. Treatment time can vary from one to two years depending on the severity of the malocclusion.  

If you have questions or concerns regarding our orthodontic services, please give us a call. To learn about services provided at our practice, visit www.allcoastdental.net for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at All Coast Dental in Pacific Beach, CA, call 858-270-4904. 

How to Care for Dentures

As part of commitment to our senior patients at All Coast Dental, we want to ensure that they understand how to care for their dentures. Getting full or partial dentures will require a major change in a patient’s oral hygiene routine, but it’s nothing to be afraid of.

Regardless of whether or not dentures are supported by implants, they should be removed on a nightly basis. If the dentures aren’t supported by a bar, this will give the gums a chance to rest, but even if they are, the gums and tongue still need to be brushed (don’t forget to get in between abutments). Doing this before putting the dentures back in each morning will increase blood flow, preventing numbness.

Dentures must always be kept moist. They may be left to soak in cleaning solution or clean water, but never water that is hot enough to warp them. Like the natural parts of a patient’s mouth, dentures should only be brushed with a soft-bristled toothbrush; however, dentures also require specially-designated toothpaste. This is because they lack the natural protective film on teeth which protects them from gritty minerals. The entire denture needs to be brushed, not just the false teeth.

Damage to dentures should only be repaired by a professional. It is expected that they will have to be refitted from time to time, so it is important for denture patients to maintain their relationship with their dentists.

Drs. Julie and Joseph Boulos operate All Coast Dental at 2180 Garnet Ave, Suite 1-K, Pacific Beach, California, 92109. To schedule an appointment, call 858-270-4904 or visit AllCoastDental.net and fill out a contact sheet.

 

Eliminate Dental Plaque

Have you ever licked your teeth and felt a “fuzzy” buildup? That fuzz you feel is a sticky, colorless film of bacteria that forms on teeth called plaque. Plaque develops when foods containing carbohydrates such as milk, soft drinks, and other food and beverages that are high in sugar and starches are frequently left on the teeth. If you don’t practice proper oral hygiene on a daily basis to remove this residue, the plaque will harden into tartar, which only our hygienist at All Coast Dental will be able to remove.

Everyone develops plaque because bacteria are constantly forming in our mouths. Plaque that is not removed from around the gum line can cause inflammation and irritation to the gums around your teeth. If you’re not sure if you see some plaque on your teeth, all you have to do is scratch the enamel with your fingernail. If residue appears, go grab your toothbrush. It’s important to brush your teeth twice a day, using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to remove plaque from tooth surfaces and protect your teeth from decay.

If you are due for a dental checkup, please give us a call and schedule your appointment. To learn about services provided at our practice, visit www.allcoastdental.net for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at All Coast Dental in Pacific Beach, CA, call 858-270-4904.  

Don't Delay Dental Treatment

It’s important for people to remember that maintaining proper dental care habits not only reduces the risk of periodontal disease and tooth decay but can also save you money in the long run. Visiting the dentist twice a year and maintaining basic oral health is far less expensive than replacing a lost tooth or undergoing an extensive procedure to cure dental disease. Here at All Coast Dental, our doctors can teach you the importance of oral health and help you sustain a healthy smile.

Taking care of oral health now can help you save money and avoid paying for expensive procedures later. One example of the cost of avoiding dental care is that oral health problems if left unchecked, may lead to losing your teeth. Something that could be a simple fix, such as filling a cavity, may turn into receiving dental implants down the line because your tooth has become decayed and rotten.

If you have been avoiding the dentist for financial reasons, please give us a call to discuss your insurance options. To learn about services provided at our practice, visit www.allcoastdental.net for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at All Coast Dental in Pacific Beach, CA, call 858-270-4904.  

Warning Signs of a Failing Implant

We’re proud of the implant work we do at All Coast Dental. Implants allow us to vastly improve patients’ quality of life and have a very high success rate. However, it is possible for things to go wrong over years of wear and tear or for us to have to correct work done elsewhere. A failing implant is a dental emergency which patients should know how to recognize.

In the immediate aftermath of an implant placement, some pain and bleeding are expected. However, if a patient’s pain is severe and does not improve, the implant may have been placed on a nerve. This is excruciating and will not result in proper fusion of the implant into bone. If the incision wound does not stop bleeding after a few days patients should seek help, and if they seem to be having an allergic reaction, it may be caused by the implant’s metal.

No matter how old an implant is, it should not move. If it does, it needs to be replaced. We will also want to monitor the amount of jawbone tissue a patient has for the first few years following the implant’s placement. If too much bone tissue is lost, there is a great risk of the implant failing later on.

Drs. Julie and Joseph Boulos operate All Coast Dental at 2180 Garnet Ave, Suite 1-K, Pacific Beach, California, 92109. To schedule an appointment, call 858-270-4904 or visit AllCoastDental.net and fill out a contact sheet.

 

Orthodontics before Implants

At All Coast Dental, we’re proud to be able to offer patients a number of services for their dental needs, including implants and the ClearCorrect invisible aligners. However, when patients have multiple dental problems, they may not know which to address first. In most cases, orthodontic corrections should be made prior to placement of implants.

In the first place, until tooth alignment is corrected, there may not even be room for an implant, let alone another crown. But even when there is, it is important that the teeth be in as good alignment as possible before the implant is placed, because once it’s in, it’s (hopefully) not going to move. An implant is a titanium screw which the jaw bone tissue has fused with. It’s not going to be pushed around like natural teeth, and ClearCorrect is for mild cases of misalignment.

None of this is to say that a person who already has an implant has no hope of receiving orthodontics. It will depend on the position of the teeth and whether the implant-supported crown is in the front or back of the mouth. Sometimes implants can even be useful anchors for corrected dental arches.

Drs. Julie and Joseph Boulos operate All Coast Dental at 2180 Garnet Ave, Suite 1-K, Pacific Beach, California, 92109. To schedule an appointment, call 858-270-4904 or visit AllCoastDental.net and fill out a contact sheet.

 

How to Reduce Dental Plaque

Plaque develops when foods containing carbohydrates, such as soft drinks, cakes, candy, etc. are frequently left on the teeth. Bacteria that live in the mouth thrive on these foods, producing acid as a result. Over a period of time, these acids destroy tooth enamel, resulting in tooth decay. This is why our doctors at All Coast Dental want patients to know how they can reduce dental plaque to avoid dental decay in the future.

To prevent cavity causing plaque you must first pay attention to your diet. Since plaque needs carbohydrates to form acid, the fewer carbs you eat as in between meal snacks, the better. Avoid candy, cookies, and other sweet things as much as possible in order to prevent plaque from producing acid which demineralizes tooth enamel. If you need a snack, choose nutritious foods such as plain yogurt, nuts, cheese, fruit or raw veggies. Vegetables such as celery help remove food and help saliva neutralize the acids made by plaque.  In addition, the best thing you can do to reduce dental plaque is brush and floss twice a day. Brushing removes plaque that has built up on your teeth while flossing removes plaque from between your teeth. Last but not least, you should be scheduling professional cleanings with us twice a year.

If you are due for a dental checkup, please give us a call. To learn about services provided at our practice, visit www.allcoastdental.net for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at All Coast Dental in Pacific Beach, CA, call 858-270-4904.  

What is a Tooth-Colored Filling?

Fillings help restore teeth that have been damaged due to decay. Therefore, if you’ve ever had a cavity, to treat it, your dentist removed the decayed portion of the tooth and then “filled” the area on the tooth where the decayed material once lived. At All Coast Dental, we utilize white (tooth-colored) fillings. Composite resins or tooth-colored fillings provide good durability and resistance to fracture in small to mid-size fillings that need to withstand moderate pressure from the constant stress of chewing.

Fillings help restore teeth damaged by decay back to their normal function and can prevent further decay. When a dentist gives you a filling, they first remove the decayed tooth material, clean the affected area, and then fill the cavity with a filling material. Composites are also used for cosmetic improvements of the smile by changing the color of the teeth or reshaping disfigured teeth. Aesthetics are the main advantage of composites since dentists can blend shades to create a color nearly identical to that of the actual tooth.

If you have questions regarding dental bonding and/or white fillings, please give us a call. To learn about services provided at our practice, visit www.allcoastdental.net for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at All Coast Dental in Pacific Beach, CA, call 858-270-4904.  

Electric Toothbrush Apps

We’ve talked before about the differences between electric and manual toothbrushes, but manufacturers are constantly coming up with new special features. All Coast Dental treats patients with a variety of needs, and it’s possible that some of them might benefit from the smart phone apps now being programmed.

Manual toothbrushes require users to brush for two whole minutes twice a day. People who do so get the same result as electric toothbrush users, but most people do not brush nearly that much. Of course, for people with disabilities who are unable to brush normally, an electric toothbrush may be worth it. Some of the apps provide feedback on how long a patient has been brushing, which parts of their mouth they frequently miss, and whether they ought to adjust the toothbrush’s settings.

There are also a number of apps meant to develop healthy habits in children. Some apps allow them to play video games while they brush, in order to get them to do it longer. Others provide a reward system or an educational video. Whether these apps are useful depends a lot on the user, but they could potentially be a big help for parents who have had difficulty getting their children to brush normally.

Drs. Julie and Joseph Boulos operate All Coast Dental at 2180 Garnet Ave, Suite 1-K, Pacific Beach, California, 92109. To schedule an appointment, call 858-270-4904 or visit AllCoastDental.net and fill out a contact sheet.

 

How to Prevent Tooth Decay

Tooth decay is the destruction of your tooth enamel, the hard, outer layer of your teeth. Hundreds of different types of bacteria live on our teeth, gums, tongue and other crevices in the mouth. Some are helpful, but some can be harmful such as those that play a role in the tooth decay process. At All Coast Dental, we want our patients to know that good oral and dental hygiene can help you avoid cavities and tooth decay.

When a tooth is exposed to acid frequently – for example, if you frequently eat foods or drinks containing sugar and starches – the repeated cycles of acid attacks cause the enamel to continue to lose minerals. This will cause a white spot to appear if the minerals have been lost. When this happens, this is a sign of early decay.

You can help prevent tooth decay by following these tips:

• Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.


• Clean between your teeth daily with floss or an interdental cleaner.


• Eat nutritious and balanced meals and limit snacking.


• Visit us for professional cleanings and oral examination.

If you need assistance maintaining your oral hygiene routine, give us a call. To learn about services provided at our practice, visit www.allcoastdental.net for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at All Coast Dental in Pacific Beach, CA, call 858-270-4904.  

Dental Implant Failure

Dental implants are designed to provide a foundation for replacement teeth that look, feel, and function like natural teeth. In fact, they are one of the most reliable long-term methods of tooth replacement. However, as with any other surgical procedure, there are a variety of internal and external factors that cause complications or even total failure of treatment. If this ever were to happen to you, our doctors at All Coast Dental are here to assess the situation.

Osseointegration describes the formation of a direct functional and structural connection between a person’s bone and an artificial implant. There are two primary reasons for “later” implant failure after the osseointegration process has been successful. These include over-stressing implants with too much biting force or inflammatory disease of the gum tissues and/or bone around the implant. Prevention plays a tremendous role in avoiding implant failure. Once the implants are placed, it’s crucial to maintain a good oral hygiene routine. Make sure you schedule regular dental cleanings to help keep the tissues around your implants healthy.

If you have questions about dental implants, please give us a call. To learn about services provided at our practice, visit www.allcoastdental.net for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at All Coast Dental in Pacific Beach, CA, call 858-270-4904.  

Dental Anxiety in Patients

It is one thing for anxiety to affect your daily relationships, but when it starts to impact your overall health then it becomes a problem. Dental anxiety, or dental phobia, is much more serious than just getting sweating palms and sleepless nights before an appointment – it’s a paralyzing fear of dentists or dental treatment. Luckily our doctors at All Coast Dental have the tools, techniques, and gentle touch to help make regular dental visits as comfortable as possible for you.

The key to coping with dental anxiety is to discuss your fears with your dentist. Once your dentist knows what your fears are, he or she will better be able to work with you to determine the best ways to make you less anxious and more relaxed. In addition, ask your dentist what’s happening at every stage of the procedure. This way you can mentally prepare for what’s to come.

If you suffer from dental anxiety, give us a call so we ease your fear. To learn about services provided at our practice, visit www.allcoastdental.net for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at All Coast Dental in Pacific Beach, CA, call 858-270-4904.  

Diet and Dental Health

Foods that contain sugars of any kind can contribute to tooth decay; therefore the foods you eat and how frequently you eat them can affect your general health and the health of your teeth and gums. Our doctors at All Coast Dental can’t monitor your every dietary move, but they can suggest some tips for you to keep in mind when choosing your meals and snacks.

Almost all foods, including milk and vegetables, contain some type of sugar; however, they are a necessary part of a healthy diet because many of them also contain important nutrients. The best food choices for the health of your mouth include cheeses, chicken, or other meats, nuts, and milk. These foods are thought to protect tooth enamel by providing the calcium and phosphorus needed to remineralize teeth (a natural process by which minerals are redeposited in tooth enamel after being removed by acids). Calcium-fortified juices, milk, and other dairy products are rich in calcium and vitamin D and help promote healthy teeth and bones, reducing the risk of tooth loss. Cheese unleashes a burst of calcium that mixes with plaque and sticks to the teeth, protecting them from the acid that causes decay and helping rebuild tooth enamel on the spot.

If you have questions regarding diet and oral health, please give us a call. To learn about services provided at our practice, visit www.allcoastdental.net for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at All Coast Dental in Pacific Beach, CA, call 858-270-4904.  

The Benefits of Dentures

If you have missing teeth, our doctors at All Coast Dental have a variety of treatment options to replace them to help you improve your appearance and smile. One of these options is dentures. Dentures are custom-made replacements for missing teeth that can be taken out and put back in your mouth. While they may take some getting used to, and will never feel exactly the same as natural teeth, they are a non-invasive form of treatment that provides great benefits.

Today’s dentures are natural looking and more comfortable than ever. There are two main types: full and partial. With full dentures, a flesh-colored acrylic base fits over your gums. The base of the upper denture covers the roof of your mouth, while that of the lower denture is shaped like a horseshoe to accommodate your tongue. A partial denture rests on a metal framework that attaches to your natural teeth. Partial dentures are a removable alternative to dental bridges. After you schedule a consultation with one of our doctors, they will determine which type is best for you.

If you think you may benefit from dentures, please give us a call. To learn about services provided at our practice, visit www.allcoastdental.net for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at All Coast Dental in Pacific Beach, CA, call 858-270-4904. 

What is a General Dentist?

General dentists are the primary dental care providers for patients of all ages. They can treat you and your entire family and care for your overall health. Dentistry is defined as the evaluation, diagnosis, prevention and/or treatment (nonsurgical or related procedures) of diseases, disorders and/or conditions of the oral cavity, maxillofacial area and/or the adjacent and associated structures and their impact on the human body. When looking for exceptional and quality general dentistry services, look no further than All Coast Dental.

Instead of specializing in just one area of dentistry, general dentists, such as Dr. Julie Boulos, DDS and Joseph Boulos, DDS provide plenty of different services for you and your family, such as: cosmetic procedures, crowns and bridges, dental implants, dentures, gum disease treatment, home care instruction, root canal therapy, teeth cleanings and many more.

To learn about services provided at our practice, visit www.allcoastdental.net for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at All Coast Dental in Pacific Beach, CA, call 858-270-4904. 

Teething Safety

We welcome children as patients at All Coast Dental, including those who are getting their first teeth. We understand that caring for babies is a nerve-wracking experience, especially with a parent’s first child, and parents are often looking for advice. We thought our patients would appreciate some information about how to soothe babies’ teething pain safely.

Giving babies something cool to gnaw on is one of the most reliable methods of comforting them; the main problems are that the item must not be a choking hazard or cold enough to hurt them. Generally, teething items should be chilled, not frozen. A large piece of rubber or plastic, such as a teething ring, may not warm quickly enough in a baby’s hands if it came straight from the freezer.  This is also true of metal spoons.

On the other hand, frozen washcloths provide babies with moisture to suck without presenting a choking hazard. Another consumable option is popsicles or ice cubes placed in a mesh bag. Some parents also get good results from pressing on their baby’s gums with their fingers. Teething usually starts when a baby is about six months old, and our hygienist and dentists can teach parents to brush their baby’s teeth as soon as the first one begins to erupt.

Drs. Julie and Joseph Boulos operate All Coast Dental at 2180 Garnet Ave, Suite 1-K, Pacific Beach, California, 92109. To schedule an appointment, call 858-270-4904 or visit AllCoastDental.net and fill out a contact sheet.