Inlays and Onlays

Damage or decay to a tooth can cause weakness and sensitivity. Not to mention, it can also affect the appearance of your smile. Fortunately, there is a simple and attractive solution here at All Coast Dental in Pacific Beach, CA. Inlays and onlays are able to replace decayed or damaged tooth tissue when it is too much for a filling to hold.

Inlays are restorations that are for the chewing surface of a tooth, minus any cusps. Onlays are for the chewing surface of a tooth, plus one or more cusps. Inlays and onlays work well when there is too much damage or decay for a filling to hold but not enough that a full crown is needed. That is also why inlays and onlays are commonly referred to as partial crowns. Both inlays and onlays can be made of gold, porcelain, or a composite resin. The composite resin and porcelain options will be matched to the color of your tooth so it looks natural.

Inlays and onlays can not only restore the health of your tooth, but they can also help give you back a smile you are proud to show off. To schedule an appointment with All Coast Dental in Pacific Beach, CA, call our office at (858) 270-4904 or visit our website, www.allcoastdental.net. 

Basics of Bruxism

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. If you are experiencing tooth sensitivity, facial pain, or notice your jaw muscles being tired or tight, you may be a “bruxer.” If that is the case one of our doctors at All Coast Dental will develop an individualized treatment plan to help alleviate these symptoms.

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 to stabilize the jaw and prevent tooth damage that is caused by grinding.

If you suffer from symptoms of bruxism, please give us a call to discuss your treatment 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.  

Banish Bad Breath

Bad breath, also called halitosis, can be embarrassing and in some cases may even cause anxiety. It’s no wonder you may stock up on mints, gum, and other products designed to fight bad breath. But many of these products are only a temporary solution to the problem. In many cases, you can improve bad breath with proper dental hygiene. However, it’s important to schedule professional cleanings and regular dental checkups at All Coast Dental twice a year.

If you don’t brush and floss your teeth daily, food particles can remain in your mouth, promoting bacterial growth between teeth, around the gums, and on the tongue. This causes bad breath. Bad breath odors vary, depending on the source or the underlying cause. Persistent bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth may be a warning sign of gum disease. If you have bad breath, review your oral hygiene habits. If your bad breath persists after making changes, visit us as soon as possible.

If you are embarrassed by bad breath, 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.  

Cavity Characteristics

There are two main factors that contribute to cavities. One is bacteria in the mouth and the other is a diet that is high in sugar. It’s no surprise that cavities are common among children, but changes that occur with aging, make cavities an adult problem, too. To prevent cavities from occurring you should brush and floss on a daily basis, in addition to scheduling professional cleanings at All Coast Dental twice a year.

Cavities, or tooth decay, are the destruction of your tooth enamel, the hard, outer layer of your teeth. Tooth decay is heavily influenced by lifestyle, what we eat, how well we take care of our teeth, and the presence of fluoride in our water and toothpaste. Only your dentist can tell for sure if you have one because sometimes cavities cause little to no pain at all. Regardless of how and where they occur, the best way to spot them and treat them before they become serious is by visiting our doctors at All Coast Dental for checkups.

If you are experiencing tooth pain of any kind, please give us a call to discuss your treatment 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.  

Electric vs. Manual Toothbrush

A good, old-fashioned toothbrush has been proven time and time again that it’s the right tool for the job, but in recent years, the electric toothbrush has become a serious competitor. The health of your teeth and gums depends in large part on regular and correct brushing. This is why at All Coast Dental it doesn’t matter what type of toothbrush you use, we just want you to brush properly.

Part of choosing the right toothbrush involves evaluating the differences between an electric toothbrush and a manual toothbrush. Many electric toothbrushes have added features, such as a timer that turns the toothbrush off after two to three minutes and pressure sensors that regulate the speed of the toothbrush and ensure you do not use too much pressure while brushing. A major benefit to using a manual toothbrush is cost.

The cost of an electric toothbrush can easily be more than $100. Another benefit to using a manual toothbrush is in the design of the brush. You can purchase a manual toothbrush in a number of styles and brush lengths, and those with flexible handles may make it easier to reach difficult areas of your mouth. Given that electric and manual toothbrushes are effective brushing tools, features that equate to benefits are more a matter of personal preference.

If you have questions about oral hygiene, 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.  

Selecting a Mouthwash that Meets 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. While shopping for mouthwash at your local drugstore, it is important when searching for the rinse that’s right for you to look for the American Dental Association (ADA) seal of approval. Mouthwash has many beneficial properties and our doctors at All Coast Dental would like to explain a few.

• 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 have questions about oral hygiene or oral hygiene products, 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.  

Your Child’s First Visit to All Coast Dental

If you are a new parent, you may find yourself asking, “When should my child first see a dentist?” The answer is that a child should have their first dental visit by their first birthday. The first dental visit is usually short and involves very little treatment. It is our goal here at All Coast Dental to make your child’s first consultation with us goes as smooth and comfortable as possible.

The purpose of the child’s first dental visit is to learn about your child’s oral health and how to best care for your child’s unique needs before any problems occur. Many dental problems can be prevented or more easily treated in the early stages. At the visit, you should expect one of our dentists or hygienists to review your child’s history, respond to your questions and concerns and talk with you about your child’s overall oral health, including development, teething, and oral habits such as sucking.

If you are searching for a pediatric dentist, look no further and 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.  

Soft Food Diet for TMJ/TMD

TMJ can have many symptoms, from clicking, to locking of the jaw, to a headache, earache, or even a feeling of tiredness in the face. Because TMJ affects the chewing muscles, the condition may worsen when eating certain foods. Here at All Coast Dental in Pacific Beach, CA, our doctors can not only treat this condition, but they can recommend diet changes to alleviate symptoms.

By incorporating soft foods into your diet you are giving your jaw and temporomandibular joints the opportunity to rest and heal. We know that giving up certain foods is easier said than done, but you may need to try eliminating certain culprits from your diet if this decreases your problems with TMJ/TMD. To lessen pain and other symptoms associated with this condition, avoid eating hard foods, crunchy foods, and thick or large foods that involve opening your mouth wide when you chew them. You may also want to eliminate fatty foods that require a lot of chewing. Some ideal foods to eat include cooked vegetables and fruits, cottage cheese, mashed potatoes and scrambled eggs.

If you are experiencing any kind of facial pain, please give us a call to discuss your treatment 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.  

Natural-Looking Dental Bridges

Tooth replacement is important for eating, talking, self-esteem, and even jaw structure. When replacing a tooth, it is nice to have a replacement that blends right in with your other teeth. Here at All Coast Dental in Pacific Beach, CA, we are able to create natural-looking bridges to replace missing teeth.

Dental bridges are usually made from metal, ceramic, or ceramic covered metal. The options with ceramic will help the bridge look just like the rest of your natural teeth. A bridge closes the gap by placing a replacement tooth, called a pontic, between two crowns. The crowns are placed on the teeth adjacent to the open space. Bridges may last for fifteen years or longer with good care.

In order to create a bridge, first, the adjacent teeth will be reshaped to fit crowns on them. An impression will then be taken of the area so we can send it to a dental laboratory. There, a custom bridge will be created just for you. You will wear a temporary bridge while the permanent one is being created. The process usually takes two or three weeks. The final bridge is cemented into place and the next time you smile or go to eat something, you will be happy with your natural-looking, strong replacement.

If you are missing a tooth, it is important to replace it as soon as you can. To schedule an appointment with All Coast Dental of Pacific Beach, CA, call our office at (858) 270-4904. More information about bridges can be found on our website. 

Tips for Flossing with Braces

As our doctors at All Coast Dental will tell you, flossing can be difficult when you have traditional metal braces, but it’s more important than ever to keep the gaps in your teeth clean when you have a mouth full of metal. Many folks who have braces don’t know how to floss with them or think that they can’t floss at all if they have braces and this is not true. We already taught you how to brush with braces, so it’s only fair that we share some tips for flossing effectively and keeping those brackets and wires clean.

• Use waxed floss, because unwaxed floss is more likely to get caught and shred in your braces.

• Use about 18 inches of floss and thread it carefully. 

• Take the floss and gently thread it under the main wire of the braces before passing it between two teeth. Then remove the floss and re-thread it under the main wire to pass between the next pair of teeth.

• Be sure not to snap the floss. Simply move the floss up and down carefully against the side of each tooth.

If you have questions about orthodontic oral care, 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. 

As our doctors at All Coast Dental will tell you, flossing can be difficult when you have traditional metal braces, but it’s more important than ever to keep the gaps in your teeth clean when you have a mouth full of metal. Many folks who have braces don’t know how to floss with them or think that they can’t floss at all if they have braces and this is not true. We already taught you how to brush with braces, so it’s only fair that we share some tips for flossing effectively and keeping those brackets and wires clean.

• Use waxed floss because unwaxed floss is more likely to get caught and shred in your braces.


• Use about 18 inches of floss and thread it carefully.


• Take the floss and gently thread it under the main wire of the braces before passing it between two teeth. Then remove the floss and re-thread it under the main wire to pass between the next pair of teeth.


• Be sure not to snap the floss. Simply move the floss up and down carefully against the side of each tooth.

If you have questions about orthodontic oral care, 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.  

Tips for Brushing with Braces

If you have braces, you should be working overtime on practicing proper oral hygiene. This is because braces have tiny spaces where food particles and plaque get trapped, and inadequate cleaning while wearing these wires can cause enamel staining and tooth decay around brackets or bands. Our doctors at All Coast Dental can’t stand behind you to monitor how often you brush, but we can provide you with the following routine that will help make brushing with traditional braces both simple and effective.

• Prepare to brush – take off elastics, and any other removable parts of your orthodontic appliance.


• Clean your braces – use your brush at a 45-degree angle to clean around the wires and pins of your braces. Brush the top of each wire and then from the bottom. Take time to ensure that all plaque and debris are removed.


• Brush your teeth – clean each tooth individually. First, place your brush at a 45-degree angle to the junction between the tooth and the gum, and then apply gentle pressure as you move in a circular motion. Use the same brushing action on all outer and inner tooth surfaces, tilting the brush as needed to better reach the insides of smaller front teeth.

If you have questions about orthodontic oral care, 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. 

Custom Take-Home Teeth Whitening

Have you ever tried store-bought whitening kits only to find that they did not get you the results you desire? It may be time to try a professional approach. Here at All Coast Dental, we make it easy. You can take home our custom teeth whitening trays to whiten your teeth in the comfort of your own home and on your own time.

When dark foods and drinks like cola, blueberries, or coffee have left teeth darker than you would like, we have a solution. We can create you a set of custom trays that you take home and wear for a short period of time over a few days. This system has the professional strength that works while still keeping the convenience factor of at-home whitening. To ensure the perfect fit, we use impressions of your teeth to create the custom trays. We give you a whitening gel that is placed into the trays and worn for your recommended amount of time. They are able to be worn at day or night, depending on what works the best for your schedule. Using our professional system, our patients often see smiles four to eight shades whiter.

Stained or discolored teeth can really bring confidence down. Stop hiding your smile and make an appointment with us for our custom take-home whitening trays. To schedule an appointment in our Pacific Beach, CA office, call All Coast Dental at (858) 270-4904. More information about teeth whitening can be found on our website, www.allcoastdental.net. 

Dental Crowns to Restore Function and Smiles

An injured tooth due to damage or decay should be saved, if it can be. It is always ideal to have your natural teeth. This is why at All Coast Dental in Pacific Beach, CA, we can provide dental crowns for patients who have damaged teeth with an intact root.

A cracked or weakened tooth can be painful and it can lead to infection. Not to mention, they will often turn dark or make your teeth appear unhealthy looking. Dental crowns are like a cap that goes over the whole tooth to strengthen it, repair the look of it, and protect it from further damage. It fully restores the function of the tooth while repairing the look of your smile. The crown can be made of gold, porcelain-covered metal, or all porcelain. The options with porcelain are what give you the natural-looking crown.

To create the crown, first any decay is removed from the tooth and the tooth will be reshaped for the crown to fit. An impression is then taken so a dental laboratory can use it to create your custom crown. When the crown is placed, it may feel odd in your mouth; however, after a few days of getting used to the new structure, it will feel just like the rest of your teeth.

Do not let damage or decay completely ruin an otherwise healthy tooth. To schedule an appointment with All Coast Dental in Pacific Beach, CA, call our office at (858) 270-4904. More information about our practice can be found on our website, www.allcoastdental.net. 

If is Isn't Decay, Why Are My Teeth Sensitive?

Sensitive teeth can be a real pain, especially when you are trying to enjoy your favorite frozen treats during summer.  While sometimes sensitive teeth can mean there is a cavity or worse, an infection, often it is just simple habits that create the problem. At All Coast Dental in Pacific Beach, CA, we want our patients to come in for an examination if they are having sensitivity to make sure it is not decay. We also want patients to know what can cause sensitivity when it is not decay.

Sensitive teeth are often caused by worn down tooth enamel. When enamel is worn down, the dentin shows through which contains tiny tubes that lead to the center of the tooth where all the nerves are. To avoid wearing down your enamel, there are a few things you should keep in mind. The first thing you want to remember is to not brush too harshly. To remove plaque, all it takes is a soft toothbrush with a light touch.  In addition to abrasive brushing, grinding your teeth is another common culprit. Ask us about a night guard if you suspect you grind or clench your teeth at night.

Enamel can also be worn down by brushing too soon. Yes, it is true, you can brush too soon! The foods we eat contain acids that can soften enamel. Wait at least thirty minutes after eating acidic foods before brushing so the enamel can re-harden. In addition, very acidic foods and drinks like soda pop should be limited.

Sensitivity can often be resolved by changing your habits. To schedule an appointment with All Coast Dental in Pacific Beach, CA, call our office at (858) 270-4904 or visit our website, www.allcoastdental.net. 

Foods to Avoid with TMJ Pain

When dealing with a TMJ flare-up, it is nice to know which foods to avoid as to not aggravate the condition. It is also good to know what to avoid to stop a flare-up from happening in the first place. At All Coast Dental, we know how frustrating TMJ pain can be. Steer clear of these certain types of foods to keep a pain-free jaw.

Hard and Crunchy

Hard and crunchy foods are more difficult for the jaw to chew through than softer foods. Because of the force the jaw needs to exert to bite through them, hard and crunchy foods can irritate the TMJs and lead to pain. Stay away from crunchy foods like chips and popcorn as much as possible. Harder foods like raw vegetables are also difficult on the jaw joints. However, since veggies are still an important part of your diet, just cook them so they are softer.

Chewy

Chewy food is another common culprit for jaw pain. Caramels, chewing gum, and even tougher cuts of meat are irritating because of the amount of chewing needed to break them down. The constant chewing motion can easily cause a TMJ flare-up. Stay away from chewy candies. If you use gum to freshen your breath, think about trying mints. Also, stick to tender cuts of meat and if you want seafood, choose fish instead of chewy shellfish.

TMJ pain can be frustrating and it can feel like eating makes it worse. However, just changing your eating habits can make a big difference. To schedule an examination with All Coast Dental in Pacific Beach, CA, call our office at (858) 270-4904 or visit our website, www.allcoastdental.net. 

Common Reasons for Tooth Extractions

Although permanent teeth were meant to last a lifetime, having a tooth pulled is sometimes necessary. At All Coast Dental, our doctors would like you to know that before he or she considers extraction, every effort will be made to try to repair and restore your tooth.  You’re probably most familiar with wisdom teeth extractions, but other reasons for the procedure may include:

• Severe tooth damage/trauma – some teeth have such extensive decay and damage (broken or cracked) that repair is not possible.


• Orthodontic treatment – 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.


• Extra teeth – extra teeth may block other teeth from erupting, therefore, will require extraction.

If you have a tooth that is causing you pain, please give us a call to discuss your treatment 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.

The Three Stages of 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 types that you need to be aware of. You should always schedule professional cleanings and oral exams with our doctors at All Coast Dental 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 – Some patients with untreated gingivitis will subsequently develop periodontitis. 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 a significant cause of tooth loss.  In this later stage of the disease, there is destruction of the fibers and bone supporting your teeth. 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 experience gum inflammation of any kind, please give us a call to discuss your treatment 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. 

Why is it Important to Replace Missing Teeth?

When a tooth is lost or is extracted, it may seem okay to leave the space open if it is not bothering you, but it is actually very important to fill that space quickly. At All Coast Dental in Pacific Beach, CA, we offer several options for tooth replacement and we want our patients to know why it is important to replace a missing tooth sooner rather than later.

When a tooth is lost, the bone in the jaw begins to deteriorate. As we get older, the deterioration speeds up. Bone loss can hinder the success of replacement in the future. When a single tooth is lost, the other teeth will shift towards that open space. This creates differences in your bite. This can also introduce gaps between teeth which can become hard-to-reach areas that collect bacteria. Gums can also become irritated if the matching tooth on the opposite set of teeth clacks up against it instead of the tooth that used to be there.

If multiple teeth are missing, the jaw can actually change shape as it deteriorates which will change facial structure. When most or all teeth are missing, facial muscles can begin to sag which makes a person appear older than they are.

At All Coast Dental, we have several options for tooth replacement including dental implants, bridges, and dentures. To schedule an appointment at our Pacific Beach, CA office, call us at (858) 270-4904 or visit our website, www.allcoastdental.net. 

TMJ/TMD

TMD can be a very painful condition to deal with. It can also be frustrating, but there are treatments for it. At All Coast Dental in Pacific Beach, CA, we are relieving our patients of pain by providing them with custom night guards.

The TMJ is the joint that connects the jawbone to the skull. Temporomandibular disorder (TMD), is a condition where the temporomandibular joint (the TMJ), is dysfunctional. The joint can become enflamed, swollen, and tender. It can cause aching around the ear and face, difficulty chewing, and a clicking or popping sound. The joint may also lock the mouth open or closed.  

There are several things that can contribute to TMD. If the TMJ disc is eroded or moved out of place, it can cause TMD. Arthritis or damage by injury can also cause TMD. Often, grinding the teeth or clenching the jaw can also lead to TMD. Grinding and clenching is especially a problem at night, when a patient may not know he or she is doing it.

A night guard is available less the effects the pressure put on the jaw by TMD. Surgery for TMD is sometimes needed, but often just changing the way the jaw muscles are used through behavioral treatment is enough to provide relief. Our night guards are made completely custom from an impression of your teeth, so it will provide you with the best possible relief.

If you are experiencing a sore jaw, clicking sounds, or suspect you grind your teeth at night, come in for an evaluation. To schedule with All Coast Dental of Pacific Beach, CA, call our office at (858) 270-4904 or visit our website, www.allcoastdental.net. 

Dental Exam for Seniors

We only get one set of permanent teeth; therefore, it’s important that they last a lifetime. Good dental hygiene and oral care habits are important at any age. But as we all grow older, certain health concerns earn our full attention, especially the importance of oral health for seniors. Whether you have all of your original teeth, some of them or a full set of dentures, our staff at All Coast Dental can help you keep your mouth healthy.

If you’re a senior headed for a checkup, one of our doctors will conduct a thorough history and dental exam. During the oral exam, he or she will check the following: your face and neck, your bite, your jaw, your lymph nodes and salivary glands, your inner cheeks as well as the inside of your oral cavity. It is important for us to check for signs of infection and oral cancer so that if something is wrong, we can catch it in the earliest stage when it is the easiest to treat. If you wear dentures or other appliances, we will also ask about when you wear them as well as if you are experiencing any problem areas in the mouth.

To learn more about 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 858-270-4909.

Dental Crowns

Weak teeth can cause pain, further injury to the tooth, cause soft tissue injury, and decay. When a tooth is weakened, it must be protected and re-strengthened so it can continue a functional life. Here at All Coast Dental in Pacific Beach, CA, we utilize dental crowns for this purpose.

A dental crown is like a cap that goes on a tooth. The entire part of the tooth that is visible outside of the gums is covered by the crown. At All Coast Dental, we are able to make a dental crown look just like one of your natural teeth; no one will be able to tell the difference.

Crowns may be made of gold, porcelain fused to metal, or full porcelain. The options with porcelain are made to look and feel like one of your own teeth. To ensure that the crown is exactly right for you, we take impressions of your tooth after it is carefully prepared for the crown. These impressions are sent to a dental laboratory where the custom crown will be created.

To prepare your tooth for a crown, we will first remove any decay. We will then reshape the tooth by filing down the sides. While the tooth is being created by the laboratory, you will wear a temporary crown.

Crowns are durable, long-lasting, and they look great. If you are experiencing pain to a tooth, call All Coast Dental to set up an appointment. Our Pacific Beach, CA office may be reached at (858) 270-4909. Appointments may also be made through our website, www.allcoastdental.net. 

The Proper Flossing Technique

There is a right way and a wrong way to do something and the same method applies to flossing. Every six months when you visit our staff at All Coast Dental for a professional cleaning, you’re likely to hear a lecture on flossing. More importantly, we are more likely to hear excuses about why you aren’t doing so.  Proper flossing removes plaque and food particles in places where a toothbrush cannot easily reach – under the gum line and between your teeth. If you’re curious about the proper flossing technique, follow these tips!

• Starting with about 18 inches of floss, wind most of the floss around each middle finger, leaving an inch or two of floss to work with.


• Holding the floss tightly between your thumbs and index fingers, slide it gently up-and-down between your teeth.


• Gently curve the floss around the base of each tooth, making sure you go beneath the gum line.


• Use clean sections of floss as you move from tooth to tooth.

If you have further questions about oral hygiene, please give us a call. To learn more about 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 858-270-4909.

Are You Brushing Effectively?

Have you ever heard the expression, “If you don’t brush your teeth they will fall out of your head?” If so, you should know that isn’t entirely false. If you don’t brush your teeth at least twice a day, you are allowing more than 600 types of bacteria to fester on your enamel. This is what causes tooth decay that can eventually lead to tooth loss if left untreated. To keep your permanent teeth for a lifetime, our doctors at All Coast Dental would like you to utilize these powerful brushing tips the next time you step in front of the bathroom sink.  

• Place your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle against the gums.


• Move the brush back and forth in a circular motion in short (tooth-wide) strokes.


• Brush the outer tooth surfaces, the inner tooth surfaces, and the chewing surfaces of the teeth.


• Use the tip of the brush to clean the inside surfaces of the front teeth, using a gentle up-and-down stroke.


• Brush your tongue to remove bacteria.

If you have further questions about oral hygiene, please give us a call. To learn more about 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 858-270-4909.

What is Cosmetic Dentistry?

Cosmetic dentistry is a type of dentistry that is aimed at creating a positive change to your teeth and to your smile. If you have a grin that embarrasses you due to missing teeth, tooth discoloration, or teeth that are chipped or cracked, our doctors at All Coast Dental have a wide variety of treatment options to restore your confidence. Not only will our staff boost your self-esteem, but we dedicate ourselves to making you want to smile more often.

From subtle changes to major repairs, our dentists can perform a variety of procedures to improve your smile. These procedures include, but are not limited to, whitening, dental bonding, dental crowns, and veneers. These improvements are not always just cosmetic. Many of these treatments can improve oral problems as well, such as your bite. If you’re not sure which procedure may be right for you, we are here to answer all of your questions. The condition of your teeth and your desired result often indicate the best procedure for you.

If you have desire a more aesthetically pleasing smile, don’t hesitate to give us a call. To learn more about 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 858-270-4909.

Types of Teeth and Their Purpose

 

Teeth are extremely useful. Not only do they help you chew your food, but they help you form words so that you can speak properly and also help you express yourself through the act of smiling. Many factors play a role in the amount of teeth we have, but have you ever wondered why all teeth have different shapes? Our staff at All Coast Dental would like to take this opportunity to educate you on the types of teeth you have and the purpose they serve.    

The types of teeth and their functions are:

• 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 pearly whites, please give us a call. To learn more about the pediatric services as well as other 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 858-270-4909.

Teeth are extremely useful. Not only do they help you chew your food, but they help you form words so that you can speak properly and also help you express yourself through the act of smiling. Many factors play a role in the amount of teeth we have but have you ever wondered why all teeth have different shapes? Our staff at All Coast Dental would like to take this opportunity to educate you on the types of teeth you have and the purpose they serve.    

The types of teeth and their functions are:

• 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 pearly whites, please give us a call. To learn more about 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 858-270-4909.

 

Pediatric Dentistry at All Coast Dental

Our general dentists at All Coast Dental have the experience and qualifications to care for a child’s teeth, gums, and mouth throughout the various stages of childhood. In addition, they each take pride in educating your child about the importance of oral hygiene and do their best to make dental hygiene fun yet effective.

Children are prone to tooth decay, partly because young children’s teeth are difficult to clean. Because our dentists work with patients with new teeth, they place an early emphasis on oral health education. These duties include educating not only the patients themselves but their parents on the best ways to keep those pearly whites clean. While providing basic dental services to pediatric patients, the goal is to help them establish healthy habits that will follow them through youth and beyond.

If your child is due for a dental checkup, please give us a call. To learn more about the pediatric services as well as other 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 858-270-4909.

SOL Soft Tissue Diode Laser

Gum disease is detrimental to oral health. It can spread infection, cause the loss of teeth, and cause a great deal of pain. At All Coast Dental, we know fighting gum disease is essential for our patients’ oral and overall health. That is why here in our Pacific Beach, CA office we utilize the SOL soft tissue diode laser.

Updating technology is what allows us to provide the best and latest treatments. The latest in gum disease treatment is laser therapy. To treat gum disease, the bacteria that have taken over must be eliminated. We now use the soft tissue laser together with the traditional scaling and root planing procedure to remove tartar deposits below the gum line and better eliminate the bacteria that causes gum disease.  Using a laser may result in less swelling, bleeding, post procedure sensitivity, and tissue damage.  Healing time is also often reduced.

When it comes to gum disease, taking the proper precautions to avoid it and fighting it with the right tools is essential for bringing back your oral health. To learn more about the SOL soft tissue diode laser, call All Coast Dental of Pacific Beach, CA at (858) 270-4909. To learn more about our practice, visit our website, www.allcoastdental.net. 

Professional Teeth Whitening

A bright and shiny smile is something that so many of us desire, but it can be difficult to maintain. We understand that even with a good dental hygiene routine, teeth can still look discolored. It is for this reason that at All Coast Dental in Pacific Beach, CA, we offer custom take-home whitening trays.

Our professional whitening system is able to whiten a smile by four to eight shades. Since it is able to be taken home, our patients can whiten their teeth from the comfort of their own home! Even though this system is used at home, it is very different from store-bought kits. Our system is made custom so you get the best results!

We first create the custom whitening trays by taking impressions of your teeth. The trays fit your teeth exactly so the whitening gel conforms to every area of your teeth. We then give you the whitening gel to put inside the trays. The trays are worn for a short period of time for a few days. You can wear them at night or during the day, depending on what you prefer.

If you are hiding your smile due to discoloration, staining, or yellow teeth, it is time to try a professional whitening system! To schedule your consultation for our custom take-home whitening trays, call All Coast Dental of Pacific Beach, CA at (858) 270-4909 or visit our website, www.allcoastdental.net. 

Dental Bridge for Tooth Replacment

An open space in a smile can cause hygiene problems, functional problems, and it can really alter the way one’s smile looks. Replacing a missing tooth is important. Here at All Coast Dental in Pacific Beach, CA, one of the options we have for tooth replacement is a dental bridge.  

A dental bridge is a popular option for tooth replacement that has been around for a long time. They are able to be made to fit in with the rest of your teeth, so the restoration is not obvious or even detectable! To apply a dental bridge, we attach the replacement tooth to two crowns that are attached to your existing teeth.

In order to place a bridge, first we must prepare the surrounding teeth. The teeth that are adjacent to the open space will act as the foundation for the bridge. They are reshaped so that a dental crown can fit on each of them. Next, we take an impression of the teeth and the surrounding area so a dental laboratory can create a custom bridge. The bridge, again, consists of two crowns and a replacement tooth in the middle. There are also options for when there is only one tooth next to the open space. During the creation process, you will wear a temporary bridge. This creation process may take a few weeks. When the permanent bridge is ready, we cement it into place.

To re-complete your smile, a dental bridge may be the perfect option. To schedule your consultation with All Coast Dental of Pacific Beach, CA, call us at (858) 270-4909 or visit our website, www.allcoastdental.net. 

Full and Partial Dentures at All Coast Dental

Dentures are a popular and effective way of replacing missing teeth. At All Coast Dental in Pacific Beach, CA, we offer several options for dentures. We want to stress to our patients how important it is to replace teeth and give them several options to match their lifestyle.

Replacing teeth is about more than being able to chew. Our teeth help us talk, laugh, smile, and convey emotion. They even help keep the structure of our jaw and face! When they go missing, the jawline slowly begins to deteriorate, making facial muscles sag. This often makes patients appear older than they are.

In our Pacific Beach, CA office, we offer full and partial dentures. While partial dentures are like removable bridges, full dentures replace all of the teeth in the mouth.

If you are missing most or all of your teeth, full dentures are a great option for you. They are made to bring back the best-looking and most fitting smile to you. They are available to be placed conventionally or immediately, for our patients’ convenience. Dentures give you back that ability to talk, laugh, and eat confidently. When taken care of just like normal teeth, they can last a very long time.

If you are missing some, most, or all of your teeth, dentures should be an option for you to consider. To schedule a tooth replacement consultation with All Coast Dental in Pacific Beach, CA, call our office at (858) 270-4904. Appointments may also be set up through our website, www.allcoastdental.net. 

Dental Bonding for Natural-Looking Restorations

It is nice when there are tooth restoration options that also keep cosmetics in mind. That is exactly what we have here at All Coast Dental of Pacific Beach, CA when we offer our patients dental bonding. Dental bonding is a dental procedure used to correct damage and imperfections while improving upon one’s smile aesthetics at the same time.

When there is a crack or chip in a tooth, for safety, functionality, and for the sake of a nice-looking smile, dental bonding is used to smooth over the chip or crack and make the tooth appear as good as new. Dental bonding can also be used for gaps and misaligned teeth. In addition, bonding can be used to whiten teeth for a long time.

To apply dental bonding, your dentist will etch the surface of your tooth. This is to create tiny grooves that the composite resin will bond with better. The composite resin chosen will match your tooth color so that it blends in with your smile and the restoration is not noticeable. The resin will be shaped over the imperfection or painted over the surface of the teeth for whitening. A light is used to harden the resin which is polished afterwards. Polishing the tooth makes it shine like a normal tooth. In one simple appointment without major surgery or dental work, your smile is fixed.

If you are concerned about your smile or want a smile upgrade, schedule an appointment for a dental bonding consultation. To schedule, call All Coast Dental of Pacific Beach, CA at (858) 270-4904 or visit our website, www.allcoastdental.net.