Tooth Decay and Holiday Food

Have you enjoyed any sweets this holiday season? You don’t need to feel guilty; good hygiene practices give us a little leeway. But with so many cookies and candies available this time of year, it is easy to let tooth decay gain a hold, which is why we at All Coast Dental in Pacific Beach want to ensure our patients are able to recognize what is risky to their teeth and take steps to keep them safe.

Tooth decay results from bacteria eating food particles that are caught on the teeth and producing acid. Bacteria can metabolize simple sugar more rapidly, so leaving sugar on the teeth for a long period allows them to produce a lot of acid. Hard candies such as candy canes are one of the worst things for the teeth because of this and because they dry the mouth out, depriving it of saliva that could be used to wash away sugar. Slowly sipping sugary drinks such as egg nog, hot chocolate, and alcohol also keeps the teeth continuously coated in sugar.

Regular flossing and brushing is the best defense against tooth decay, and we recommend taking floss everywhere. But sometimes it’s hard to slip away when socializing demands that you snack for a long period. In those cases, you can try chewing sugar-free gum, which will dislodge small morsels and get your saliva flowing. You can also alternate between sugary drinks and water to give your teeth a rinse.

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 All Coast Dental and fill out a contact sheet.

Diabetes and Gum Disease

Do you know why diabetes is of particular interest to dentists? At All Coast Dental in Pacific Beach, we regularly see people suffering from gingivitis, also known as inflammation of the gums. Although oral hygiene is necessary to prevent it, people with diabetes have particular struggles with gum disease and need extra care.

When people with diabetes have uncontrolled blood sugar, their immune systems are less effective at defeating infections. Gum disease is a bacterial infection of the gum pockets, the parts of the gum tissue that cling to tooth roots. When the immune system detects disease, it triggers the inflammatory response, which isolates the bacteria and makes cell walls more permeable to chemicals that summon white blood cells. But inflammation also causes pain and discoloration, and if the infection is prolonged, chronic inflammation will weaken the integrity of the body’s tissues. It is less clear why high blood sugar makes the immune system less effective, although it could be due to the blood vessels becoming less permeable to nutrients.

Recent studies have shown that the presence of gum disease causes blood sugar to rise. This would create a vicious circle in diabetic patients, but it can be disrupted by dental treatment. At regular cleanings, we scrape decayed material out of patients’ gum pockets, preventing gingivitis from beginning. If you have diabetes and have noticed that your gums are red or bleeding, we encourage you to come in without delay.

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 All Coast Dental and fill out a contact sheet.

 

Have You Had A Teeth Cleaning This Year?

At All Coast Dental, we want patients to maintain a great oral health routine at home, but it is still important to come into the office for regular professional cleanings.  During the holidays we want everyone looking forward to the New Year and maintaining great oral hygiene.  However much you brush and floss, some harmful bacteria grow in your mouth that cause gum disease and can only be removed by a dental professional.  Come see us for a cleaning to make a great impression during the holidays, and start the year off with your best smile!

It’s important to see a professional regularly to locate and monitor areas in the mouth that may need special attention, and a dentist can tell you if you may be missing a spot or skipping an important step in your regular oral care routine.  During a teeth cleaning, a hygienist thoroughly clean the area above and below the gum line with scaling tools to rid them of plaque and tartar. After the surfaces of the teeth are cleaned, the hygienist flosses between every one of your teeth and may apply fluoride if recommended by the dentist.

To learn more about teeth cleanings and all the services we provide at the 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 Instruments

We work hard to make our patients comfortable at All Coast Dental in Pacific Beach. For too many people, dental instruments are a source of anxiety. We believe this is because patients have an outdated understanding of them or don’t know how to talk about them, which is why we wanted to explain some of the terms associated with our tools.

The instruments patients will see used by our hygienists the most often are handheld mirrors and explorers. The explorer is the metal wand with hooks at either end which are used to break apart dental calculus. Its name comes from how we use it to test the hardness of enamel. Differently shaped explorers are sometimes called probes and can be slipped between the gum and the tooth root to determine the gum pocket’s cleanliness. Specially-shaped hooks are used to remove decay and tartar from below the gum line. As tartar is broken apart, we use a vacuum tube called an evacuator to remove debris. (This is what patients are instructed to close their lips around.)

When tooth decay is found and anesthetic is needed, it is usually administered with a syringe. Dental drills emit water so that a patient will not incur heat damage. As we break apart decayed enamel, we’ll use a larger evacuator to remove it. The material of a filling is applied and contoured using blunt-tipped instruments called burnishers. They come in many shapes, allowing us to perfectly smooth each filling to close off gaps and remain firmly in place.

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 All Coast Dental and fill out a contact sheet.

 

Adult Orthodontics

The staff of All Coast Dental provides orthodontic care for adolescents and adults.  It is often recommended to start treatment on an adolescent patient once all the permanent teeth have come in, but adults can still get great results from orthodontic care.  There are several options for adults beginning orthodontic treatment, and the best one for you will depend on what needs to be corrected

To correct bite issues and straighten teeth, the traditional braces method includes brackets on the teeth and connecting wires that are tightened over the course of treatment. Clear braces use the same method but the materials are tooth-colored to avoid a metallic look.  Accelerated orthodontics are applied to correct cosmetic issues in about six months. Severe misalignments and bite issues can’t be corrected in such a short time, but if your concerns are purely cosmetic, it’s a great option for a short treatment time that can completely transform your smile. ClearCorrect treatment is popular because of its almost invisible appearance.  A treatment plan consists of a series of clear aligners that straighten teeth over time.  Come see us and find out what will be best to correct your smile!

To learn more about the services we offer, 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.  

Protective Mouth Guards

Staying active is important for your health, and being safe while engaging in sports is also important!  All Coast Dental can provide you with an important piece of safety equipment.  Athletes participating in any contact sport should wear some kind of mouth protection. A mouth guard helps prevent damage to the teeth and jaw, and also helps prevent injuries to the cheeks, tongue, and lips.

Sporting goods stores carry mouth guards, but they are generic in form and size.  These mouth guards often end up feeling bulky and uncomfortable, leading to child and teenage athletes in particular not wearing the protection at all.  A very ill-fitting mouth guard can even interrupt breathing and speaking. Custom mouth guards can be fit over braces and won’t interrupt normal activity, so visit Bear Creek Dental for a custom mouth guard fitting.  Get a mouth guard made of thin, hard plastic that protects your teeth and still fits comfortably.  This is an easy precaution to take to protect your mouth, and you can go right back to playing your best!

To learn more about custom mouth guards and all the services we provide at the 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

All Coast Dental is happy to help with any service that improves the condition of your smiles and dental health.  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 provided at the 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.  

Aggressive Periodontal Disease

If you’re spitting a bit of pink in the sink while brushing your teeth then you may not be brushing enough. Bleeding gums are the first sign of gingivitis and though gingivitis is reversible, if left untreated it will advance to periodontitis. Periodontitis can affect one or many teeth and will cause inflammation around the tooth. Some people are more prone to periodontal disease than others, but our doctors at All Coast Dental encourage all of our patients to practice prevention.

Periodontitis is a serious gum infection that damages the soft tissue and bone that supports the tooth. If periodontitis is ignored the teeth may become loose and/or fall out. Periodontitis will cause the gum and bone to pull away from the teeth, forming large pockets. Bacteria leftover from food will then invade these pockets and infect the area. Periodontitis begins with plaque, so if your dental health is still in optimal condition, keep your teeth and gums as clean as possible by brushing at least twice a day and flossing at least once a day.

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.  

Tooth-Friendly Diet

At All Coast Dental, we see it as our responsibility to share information to help our patients make good choices regarding their dental health and good dental health begins with a well-balanced diet. While a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and unsaturated fats will benefit your overall health, there are a few stand out foods and nutrients that can really boost your oral health as well.

We’ve all heard the phrase, “milk builds strong bones and teeth.” This is true because calcium prevents against tooth decay. Calcium is found in foods like milk, cheese, and yogurt as well as in fish and some vegetables such as kale and broccoli. Crunchy fruits and vegetables – like apples, pears, celery, and carrots – act as a detergent on teeth, wiping away bacteria that can cause plaque. We don’t have to tell you to stay away from sugary snacks, but even healthy foods have sugars in them. Therefore, no matter what you eat it’s always important to brush and floss afterward and remember to visit us twice a year for 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.  

Drinking Water for Oral Health

Drinking water is important for your health at all ages.  All Coast Dental has seen adult patients that are guilty of not drinking enough water, so we know it can be tough to monitor if kids are getting enough too.  We want to encourage you and the kids in your family to stay hydrated and healthy!

We all know kids love drinking juice and soda, but we forget that these beverages leave unwanted sugar behind on the teeth.  The type of bacteria that causes cavities feeds on sugar, and produces acid that wears away enamel. Enamel is not replaceable, so it’s important to take care of it even from a young age.  When kids drink juice or soda, it is helpful just to drink some water afterwards to dilute acids and wash away food particles and residue. You and your children should be drinking at least eight 8oz glasses of water each day.  Drinking tap water with fluoride is important to help prevent cavities.  If you’re worried that your children may not be drinking enough water, come see us to discuss tips that might help them drink more!

We love to see good oral hygiene habits formed early, and make lifetime patients out of kids from our community!  To learn more about the services we provide, 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.  

Implants Replace Teeth

The doctors and staff of All Coast Dental have seen many smiles saved by single-tooth dental implants.  Implants are a permanent restorative option for teeth that are missing or have been extracted.  They look and feel like natural teeth, and are the most permanent and efficient means of replacing lost teeth.

An implant is placed over a series of appointments because of the healing time required.  Implants are titanium screws inserted through an incision in the gum. Over a period of 3-6 months, the jaw bone heals around the implant to become a solid, stable base for the new tooth. During this time a patient is fitted with a temporary crown, and a custom crown is created to match their smile perfectly.

After the jaw bone and gums have healed appropriately, the custom crown is placed in a second minor procedure.  The doctor may need to expose the head of the implant by removing some gum tissue, and the crown is screwed to the top of the implant.  When this is complete the tooth looks like part of the natural smile, and with proper care will last for decades!

To learn more about single-tooth implants and all the services we provide, 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.  

Benefits of Clear Orthodontics

The orthodontic options on the market today are endless. Traditional braces are still straightening teeth but the clear route has become much more popular. Clear aligners and clear braces eliminate metal mouth and the pain of brackets and wires. At All Coast Dental, our doctors can discuss which orthodontic appliance is best for you during a consultation.  

The benefits of clear braces extend far beyond a pretty smile. Depending on which option is best selected for you, clear aligners such as Invisalign are barely noticeable and can be removed when necessary to help patients clean their teeth a lot better than they could with wires wrapped around them. Another added benefit is that using clear braces to align adult teeth can prevent patients from the need to invest significant amounts of money in restorations in the long run. Overall, clear braces increase your self-esteem and allow you to straighten your teeth almost invisibly.

If you have questions or concerns regarding orthodontic options, 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.  

Immediate Dentures

For people who have lost their teeth due to gum disease, tooth decay, or injury, dentures can restore their smile and help them with everyday tasks such as eating and speaking. There are two main types of dentures: full and partial. Our doctors at All Coast Dental will help you choose the type of denture that’s best for you based on how many teeth are going to be replaced.

If a patient is faced with the loss of single or multiple teeth and will be replacing those teeth with removable or partial dentures, immediate placement may be an option. An immediate denture is a complete denture or partial denture inserted on the same day, immediately following the removal of natural teeth. As the healing process continues, the gums which support the denture will shrink. Changes can continue for several months. During this time, it is important to follow up with one of our doctors for adjustments. Not everyone is a candidate for an immediate denture.

If you have questions or concerns regarding dentures or restorative dentistry, 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 Conscious Sedation

The staff of All Coast Dental has seen many patients who experience some level of anxiety with each dental procedure or appointment. Some patients have had negative experiences with dental procedures that make them anxious, and others may have a sensitive gag reflex that has always made dental work dreadful.  We understand why a dental appointment could be intimidating, but do not want to see patients delaying treatment because of these fears.  Oral conscious sedation is an option we recommend for patients experiencing dental anxiety.  

Oral conscious sedation is administered by taking a pill orally (usually Valium) before a procedure.  The light sedative relaxes the patient but does not ‘knock out’ the patient, as they remain conscious.  They are brought to an extremely relaxed state, and when the dentist begins working, local anesthetic is still used at the site of the procedure.  The combination of oral conscious sedation and local anesthetic means the patient can stay relaxed and usually allows the dentist to complete more work in one session.  This makes a more pleasant experience for an anxious patient, and can even mean less dental appointments overall!

To learn more about oral conscious sedation and all the services we provide, 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 TMD?

The temporomandibular joint is a hinge that connects your jaw bone (mandible) to the temporal bones in your skull, in front of each ear.  A general term for any problem or issue with this joint is temporomandibular disorder, or TMD.  All Coast Dental can help patients prevent and recover from negative effects of TMD.

Patients that grind or clench their teeth often end up with a sore jaw.  Other patients experience injuries with facial trauma that cause jaw pain, or result in the patient feeling their jaw gets stuck or ‘locks’ in either an open or closed position.  A custom night guard keeps the jaw in a neutral position during sleep, and this helps many patients find relief from TMD symptoms.  For any pain, your dentist may recommend an over-the-counter painkiller or warm and cold compresses.  To prevent further discomfort, you may be assigned stretches for your jaw. 

Whatever your symptoms, you don’t have to suffer with discomfort in your jaw.  To learn more about TMD and the services we provide at the 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.  

Baby Bottle Tooth Decay

Children of any age can develop tooth decay, especially babies and toddlers. This is because bacteria in the mouth change the sugar in foods and drinks into acid that attacks the teeth. The most common way this happens is when parents put their children to bed with a bottle of formula, milk, juice, soft drinks, or sugared beverages. Our doctors at All Coast Dental are here to teach your child the importance of oral care at a young age, and to give parents tips as well.

Tooth decay may first appear as white spots at the gum line on the upper front teeth. These spots may be hard to detect at first but our doctors will perform a thorough oral exam once you bring your child in to see us. To avoid baby bottle tooth decay parents should never put their child to bed with a bottle, teach him or her to drink from a sippy cup as soon as possible, and limit the amount of sweet or sticky foods the child eats.

If you have questions or concerns regarding baby bottle tooth decay or pediatric dentistry, 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.  

Periodontal Maintenance

In its most advanced stages, gum disease can lead to gum recession and even tooth loss.  All Coast Dental wants to make sure it never gets to that point for you and your family!  When plaque builds up on a tooth, the gum starts to pull away from the tooth and form a pocket around the buildup, which only leads to more gum recession.  A scaling and root planing procedure is used to treat this 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 reverse the progress of gum disease.  The procedure beings with scaling, which is the process of the dentist removing plaque from the surface of the teeth, all the way down to the gums. Root planing is the term for any minor contouring to smooth the surface of a tooth near the root.  When plaque has been removed and the tooth root has been smoothed, the gums that have pulled away will have a clean, smooth surface to reattach to as they heal.

To learn more about deep periodontal cleaning and the other services we provide, 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.  

Preventing Osteonecrosis of the Jaw

Dentists are a part of a patient’s medical care team, and at All Coast Dental in Pacific Beach, we’re proud to say that we conduct oral cancer screenings. Patients battling cancer know they can rely on our services, but to ensure everything goes well for them, patients should be aware of how sharing information with us will help them to avoid osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ).

ONJ is a term used to describe the death of jaw bone tissue. When a tooth is extracted, the jaw bone at the base of the socket is briefly exposed to air before the socket clots over. This is usually only a problem if the patient is on bisphosphonate medications. Bisphosphonates are anti-bone resorption drugs given to people with osteopenia or who are undergoing chemotherapy. Almost all cases of ONJ occurred in cancer patients taking heavy doses of bisphosphonates intravenously.

It is important for patients to fully inform us of all the medications they are on. ONJ can be treated by scraping decayed material and applying anti-biotic rinses, but it is best for people who are anticipating needing dental extractions to coordinate care between their dentists and oncologists.

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 All Coast Dental and fill out a contact sheet.

 

Back to School Check-Ups

If your children haven’t been to the dentist recently, there’s no time like the present. No child should have to start off the academic year with tooth decay, and a check-up is the perfect time to assess their long-term care needs

Children are the demographic with the highest rate of tooth decay. This is often due to difficulty brushing and flossing. While a toothache is bad news for anybody, it is especially harmful to children. Sleep deprivation can have far-reaching consequences for their academic performance and temperament. In young children, toothaches can also cause speech to be delayed. At the same time, children may brush too vigorously and damage their gum tissue. At a check-up, we can correct children’s hygiene mistakes and remove infected tissue.

Another potential cause of toothaches is an impacted adult tooth. X-rays allow us to determine whether a tooth is stuck and if it or a baby tooth needs to be extracted. If your child plans to play a sport, we can also provide athletic mouthguards or refit an old one to account for changes in their growing jaw structure.

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 All Coast Dental and fill out a contact sheet.

 

Pacifiers and Teeth

Parents often struggle with weaning their child off a pacifier.  Infants are soothed to a sense of security by pacifiers, and when the time comes it is one of the hardest habits to break.  It can require a great deal of persuasion, but because of the effect they can have on the growth and development of the teeth and mouth children should stop using pacifiers by the age of two.  At All Coast Dental, we always welcome new pediatric patients, especially those who have yet to wean off of the pacifier.

Prolonged pacifier use can cause changes in the shape of the roof of the mouth, prevent proper growth of the mouth, and create problems with tooth alignment.  Narrowing of the roof of the mouth and misalignment of the jaws can also occur.  Using a pacifier too long can also lead to a variety of complications including tilting in of the bottom teeth, and slanting in of the top and front teeth. Until the age of two, any alignment problem with the teeth or developing bone is usually corrected within six months after pacifier use has stopped.  We can help and support parents having any trouble weaning their child off a pacifier before that age.

If you have questions about pacifiers and teeth development, 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.  

Pediatric Patients

All Coast Dental is proud to serve the families from our community, and we want them to know it’s just as important for children to have regular dental visits.  A child’s first dental visit should be scheduled when the first baby tooth appears, or around the child’s first birthday.  Baby teeth eventually come out, but their growth and development is important for overall oral health for the child and the development of their adult teeth.

Baby teeth should be brushed and cared for like adult teeth, and it’s important to monitor their growth and development.  Missing any tooth for too long can change the development of surrounding teeth and compromise the structure of the jaw bone, but regular checkups can keep a child’s tooth development right on track.  Our dentists are skilled and experienced in administering dental care to children.  If your child has seems nervous about seeing a dentist for the first time, we recommend going through a brushing routine with them at home, and talking about the dental visit before you arrive.  Once we get your child’s oral health off to a great start, we offer a full range of services for child patients including dental cleanings, fluoride treatments and sealants.

We love to see good oral hygiene habits formed early and make lifetime patients out of kids from our community!  To learn more about pediatric dental care and all the 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.  

Caring For Your Retainer

Many orthodontic patients require a retainer at the end of orthodontic treatment.  Removable retainers are an easy step to take to preserve a straight smile.  All Coast Dental provides retainers for patients, and caring for your retainer properly is important so that it functions and lasts as long as possible.  A silly but common mistake people make with their retainers is trying to cut corners -- don’t try to clean or brush your retainer while it’s still in your mouth!  The retainer cannot be completely cleaned of debris this way, and toothpaste can also be abrasive to the plastic of the retainer.  Always remove your retainer before cleaning thoroughly with water and your toothbrush. Use a mild dish or hand soap to help clean off debris- never abrasive toothpaste.

You should clean your retainer daily, and also treat it weekly by soaking.  Soaking helps maintain the cleanliness of the retainer and keep it from drying out.  To soak the retainer, dissolve denture cleaning tablets in water or add a little baking soda to water to make a solution.  Storing your retainer properly is also important for its longevity.  Get in the habit of always using and carrying a case.  Many retainers have disappeared while folded up in napkins!

To learn more about caring for your retainer, 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.  

Reasons for Dental Extractions

We understand that tooth extractions are a source of anxiety for many people. But at All Coast Dental, Dr. Julie Boulos and Dr. Joseph Boulos make this procedure as safe and comfortable as possible. Dental extractions are only recommended when absolutely necessary, but there are several situations in which they might be recommended.

Many problems with misaligned bites are ultimately due to overcrowding. We offer ClearCorrect orthodontic treatment to realign patients’ teeth, but for major corrections, an orthodontist may request that a dentist remove some teeth to make room for others. This is most commonly done with wisdom teeth, which are the largest and last to erupt, but it is also sometimes done with one of the sets of premolars or with other redundant teeth that have gotten stuck.

Sometimes, teeth need to be removed because they are badly damaged. Skilled dentists can repair cracks and chips, but when a tooth is fractured all the way through the crown and root, it must be replaced. If a tooth’s pulp is infected, it can be saved by means of a root canal, but sometimes root canals fail to remove all the infected material. When teeth do need to be extracted, we can replace them with implant-supported crowns that are identical to natural teeth.

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 All Coast Dental and fill out a contact sheet.

 

Rheumatoid Arthritis and Bleeding Gums

Our compassionate, nonjudgmental care at All Coast Dental is based on recognizing the unique oral health needs of our patients. Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a condition which puts patients at increased risk for gum disease, and in order to help them get the best care, we want to help them understand why they experience gingivitis so frequently.

A Johns Hopkins study recently found that 70% of people with RA have gum disease. People whose arthritis has advanced have difficulty using ordinary toothbrushes and floss, but the high rates of gingivitis among people whose disease had not reached an advanced stage suggests a bigger problem than poor hygiene. RA is the result of the body’s immune system attacking synovium, which is a tissue that lines the joints, causing it to painfully swell. Another study recently found that synovium has a similar cellular structure to gum tissue, indicating that the diseases might share a common cause.

RA is the result of genetic and environmental factors. One of the most important steps people can take to prevent it is to not smoke. If a patient is suffering from RA-related gum disease, we can instruct them on the use of electric toothbrushes and water picks that will allow them to maintain their oral hygiene more easily.

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 All Coast Dental and fill out a contact sheet.

 

Laser Treatment for Gums

At All Coast Dental, we take pride in offering the best technology available to our patients, and have seen great results for the treatment of periodontal disease with the diode laser. Patients experiencing every stage of gum disease can see improvement from laser treatment.  The diode laser is so effective in periodontal treatments because it can target unhealthy gum tissue and leave healthy tissue undisturbed. The precision that can be achieved with a laser results in less trauma to the mouth and less recovery time.

In the past, periodontal treatment was completed using more aggressive tools and often required stitches. With a diode laser, treating only the affected gum tissue and not damaging any healthy gums is more efficient and causes little to no bleeding, which means less swelling after the procedure.  Patients often find the laser procedure relatively painless, so less and sometimes no anesthetic is needed.  Please contact us to improve your oral health with a laser treatment for your gums!

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.  

Teeth Whitening

Patients of All Coast Dental love being able to present their brightest and whitest smile. Many ask our staff about over the counter products, and have tried them with underwhelming results.  Instead of winging it with retail products, come see us for a consultation and get your own custom whitening system!

During a consultation, your dentist will examine the level of staining on your teeth and be able to tell you what kind of results you can expect from the whitening system. To whiten your teeth at home, you will be fit with custom whitening trays made from molds of your teeth.  For a treatment, apply the whitening gel directly onto the trays and fit them over your teeth.  Your dentist will advise how often you should treat at home and how long each treatment can last.  Following dentist’s instructions, patients have seen this system whiten their smiles 4-8 shades!

To learn more about teeth whitening and all the services we provide at the 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.  

Purpose of a Dental Bridge

Teeth may be missing due to dental trauma, dental injury, or from decay. Regardless of the reason, at All Coast Dental, we offer a variety of cosmetic and restorative options to replace missing teeth. If patients are looking for a cost-effective way to improve his or her smile, consider discussing a dental bridge with one of our doctors.

A dental bridge is made up of two or more crowns for the teeth on either side of the gap – these two or more anchoring teeth are called abutment teeth – and false tooth/teeth in between. Dental bridges are supported by natural teeth or dental implants and are a great option to restore your smile and restore the ability to properly chew and speak. They will also help maintain the shape of your face and prevent remaining teeth from drifting out of position.

If you have questions or concerns regarding dental bridges, 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 Prophylaxis

A dental prophylaxis is a fancy name for professional teeth cleaning performed by one of our doctors at All Coast Dental. According to the Academy of General Dentistry, it is recommended that a patient visit the dentist every six months. Doing so will help prevent future dental diseases such as gum disease, and tooth decay.

The professional dental cleaning reinforces the home-care oral health regimen of brushing and flossing and gives our doctor an opportunity to locate areas in the mouth that may need special attention. During a professional tooth cleaning, a member of our dental team will thoroughly clean the area above and below the gum line with scaling tools to rid them of plaque and tartar. Once the surfaces are smooth, polishing is done using a slow speed handpiece with a soft rubber cup that spins on the end. Last but not least, the dentist flosses every crevice between your teeth and may apply fluoride if needed.

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.  

Causes of Gap Teeth

Is a gap between your top front teeth giving you anxiety or causing you to whistle? If so, you can count on the expertise of the doctors at All Coast Dental in Pacific Beach for help. There are a few different ways to fix gap teeth, but which way is best depends on the gap’s cause.

Most often, the teeth are slightly jumbled or otherwise out of place. By using the Clear Correct system of invisible aligners available in our office, we can gently guide teeth into a more desirable position. The result will last for as long as patients remember to wear their retainers at night. More severe misalignment problems may require referral to an orthodontist, but a small gap can simply be covered with veneers. Our office offers these artificial fronts for teeth which can be used to cover discoloration, as well as to slightly change the teeth’s shape.

However, if the gap is being caused by a behavior such as tongue thrusting or thumb sucking, that behavior must be stopped to ensure long-term dental health. Tongue thrusting as a swallowing reflex may require assistance from an ear, nose, and throat doctor to fix. Patients may also require referral to an oral surgeon if the gap is being caused by an overly large labial frenum, which is what connects the inside of the upper lip to the jaw. Once it’s been reduced, orthodontic work can proceed.

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 All Coast Dental and fill out a contact sheet.

 

White Spots on Teeth

When people notice spots of their teeth turning unnaturally white, they may think they have a cosmetic problem to talk to the dentist about. But at All CoastDental in Pacific Beach, we want our patients to know that what they actually have is an incipient infection, and they need to take it seriously.

As tooth enamel is chemically eroded, it takes on a glazed appearance. This can be seen in people suffering from chronic acid reflux, which erodes enamel on the back teeth. It also happens when bacteria secrete acid as a by-product of metabolizing the sugar they find stuck to teeth. Whitening is the first stage of a dental infection, but if it isn’t stopped, it will continue until a cavity forms.

White spot lesions only take about thirty days to form. They mostly do so in places which are hard to brush, such as near the gum line or around orthodontic brackets. At All Coast Dental, we provide Clear Correct Aligners, which patients can remove in order to brush their teeth normally. If a dental infection does begin, we can help stop it and cover up the damage, if 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 All Coast Dental and fill out a contact sheet.

 

Oral Care Habits and Bad Breath

The mouth is filled with good and bad bacteria. If the mouth is unclean, the bad kind will grow in excess, and potentially lead to gum disease and bad breath. It’s important to maintain adequate oral care to prevent such conditions. It’s one thing to have bad breath when waking up in the morning, but if it becomes persistent and begins to affect your everyday life, schedule an appointment with our doctors at All Coast Dental.

When foods are digested, the oils from these foods wander their way into the bloodstream, are carried through the lungs, and released through the breath. Changing your dietary habits can reduce bad breath but the food isn’t the only culprit. Other causes of bad breath, aside from lack of oral care include dry mouth, tobacco products, and chronic diseases such as diabetes. Regardless of what’s causing your bad breath, it’s best to get the condition under control before it gets worse.  

If you have questions or concerns regarding 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.  

Common Retainer Options

Retainers help a patient maintain proper alignment and a proper bite after receiving orthodontic treatment. If you’ve completed orthodontic treatment, you’ll want to not only protect your financial investment, but you’ll want to make all of the time spent wearing braces worth it. During your final orthodontic appointment, our doctors at All Coast Dental will work with you to determine which retainer is best to suit your needs.

• Removable Retainer – a removable retainer is the most common type, but depending on the individual, it may not always be the best choice. A removable retainer is crafted from a clear plastic that is formed by heat and a model of your teeth.  Removable retainers can be virtually invisible, and easy to wear.


• Fixed Retainer – also known as a bonded retainer, a fixed retainer consists of a wire being bonded to the back of the six bottom teeth. Bonded retainers tend to protect fewer teeth than removable retainers, but are ideal for the patient that may forget to wear his or her retainer at night.

If you have questions or concerns regarding retainer options, 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.  

Night Guards for Bruxism

Bruxism is the term for any regular grinding of the teeth or clenching of the jaw.  Chronic teeth grinders often end up needing crowns, bridges, root canals and implants. In severe cases tooth loss can occur, and partial or complete dentures may be needed.  Some teeth grinders only grind their teeth while they sleep at night and may not be aware of it.  Waking up with a stiff or sore jaw could be a sign you are grinding your teeth at night and shouldn’t be ignored.  Nocturnal bruxism can be caused by underlying medical conditions such as sleep apnea. For a proper diagnosis, visit All Coast Dental for a consultation.

A custom night guard is the best way to protect your teeth from the negative effects of teeth grinding.  We provide patients with custom night guards by first taking an impression of the mouth.  This impression is used to fit a custom product that protects the grinding surfaces of the teeth and aligns the jaw, which also helps improve sleep.  Night guards are durable and with proper care can last 10 years!

To learn more about night 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.  

Caring for Clear Aligners

All Coast Dental offers ClearCorrect, the clear aligner system that straightens teeth without the metallic look of braces. Another perk of ClearCorrect clear aligners is that they require less maintenance and won’t prevent you from eating certain foods.  Although you won’t have to make too many changes, there are still guidelines you should follow to wear and care for your aligners!

You should remove the aligners each time you eat, but if you do eat anything while wearing the aligners make sure to clean them thoroughly afterwards. It is also best to brush and floss your teeth before putting the aligners back in.  Ideally when wearing clear aligners, you would only drink water. Colorful drinks can stain the aligners and too many hot drinks can eventually warp the plastic.  If you do drink anything other than water while wearing the aligners you should rinse them with warm water afterwards. 

Cleaning the clear aligners regularly is important for your teeth and straightening treatment.  Clear aligners can become discolored over time without losing their effectiveness, but the color can show on your own teeth and continue to darken.  There are several soaking solutions available over the counter, but brushing the aligners is also a sufficient cleaning option.  Do not use toothpaste to brush the aligners because subtle abrasive properties of toothpaste could harm the aligner.  It is best to use mild dish soap and a soft bristle brush to clean the aligners each time you brush your teeth.

To learn more about ClearCorrect 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.  

Dental Phobia

A phobia is defined as a paralyzing fear and when patients suffer from dental phobia, our doctors at All Coast Dental will do everything we can to make them as comfortable as possible. Most people can live with dental anxiety, but when a fear of the dentist keeps a person out of the chair, it can be detrimental to their oral health and can lead to tooth loss down the road.

People develop a fear of the dentist for different reasons. Dental phobia can stem from a bad experience, fear of drills, or a fear of not having control. Patients who suffer from dental phobia suffer from poorer health because chances are they haven’t been to the dentist in years. Dental phobia can be treated, and if you are willing to discuss your concerns and fears with us, we are determined to help you achieve optimal oral health.

If you have questions or concerns regarding dental phobia, 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.  

Celebrate Oral Health Day Everyday

World Oral Health Day is celebrated all over the world on March 20^th to highlight the importance of keeping your mouth healthy and free of bad breath, periodontal disease, decay, and other dental diseases. Though our doctors at All Coast Dental want you to practice oral health day, every day, it’s never too late to improve your oral care habits.

A healthy body and a healthy mouth go hand-in-hand which is why if you brush your teeth, your body will thank you. Brushing and flossing your teeth thoroughly will prevent oral diseases and can offer clues to what else is going on with your body. To maintain optimal oral health, it’s important to brush thoroughly at least twice a day, floss at least once a day, use a mouth rinse to improve bad breath, and visit our office twice a year for oral exams.

If you have questions or concerns regarding 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.  

Vertical Dimension Loss

The doctors of All Coast Dental in Pacific Beach are experienced providers of dentures to patients who need a second chance at oral health. Regardless of whether they need a full set of dentures or just partials, one of the most important aspects of fabricating dentures is to account for vertical dimension loss. Also known as bite collapse, this consequence of tooth loss and bone degradation affects the function, comfort, and aesthetics of the jaw bone.

Tooth enamel can be worn away, and when the back teeth are missing, the front teeth may be pushed out to an angle as they are subjected to chewing forces they cannot withstand. In either case, the bite will be shortened. This will make the face appear more wrinkled and cause the mouth look disproportionately small. It also frequently causes pain in the jaw, head, neck, and shoulders.

Temporary dentures are often a part of the treatment process. Besides providing the patient with the ability to chew while their mouths heal from extractions, they also give us with a chance to ensure that prosthetic teeth are sized correctly. Properly fitted dentures can restore the shape of the patients’ face in addition to providing a dazzling smile.

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 All Coast Dental and fill out a contact sheet.

 

Research into Filling Failure

Patients at All Coast Dental in Pacific Beach receive preventive care in accordance with the latest scientific research. To help make sure everyone understands the importance of keeping regular appointments, we wanted to share the results of a new study which examined why dental fillings can fail early.

Smoking is one of the most common factors among failed implants, and it’s the same with failed fillings. The study found that men who smoked had a much higher chance of a filling needing to be replaced after just two years. On average, a filling lasts for ten years. Alcohol use was also correlated with filling failure, as was a family history of failed fillings. While shared lifestyles may be behind this, scientists also are interested in researching whether there is a genetic predisposition toward filling failure. If so, it is especially important for people who are at-risk to get their fillings assessed and replaced regularly.

The study was initially prompted by a desire to compare amalgam to the new white composite resins. Encouragingly, the study found there was no difference in longevity between the two construction materials.

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 All Coast Dental and fill out a contact sheet.

 

Impacted Wisdom Teeth

Wisdom teeth are the third and final set of molars on each side of the upper and lower jaws that erupt between the ages of 17-22. When wisdom teeth don’t erupt, this may be due to a patient being born without them or because they are impacted. Impacted wisdom teeth occur when they don’t have enough room in the mouth to grow. When this happens, our doctors at All Coast Dental may suggest extraction.

Impacted wisdom teeth pose a risk of infection and can cause frequent headaches if they are pressing against a nerve in the neck. Impacted wisdom teeth don’t always show symptoms, however, which is why it’s important to visit our office twice a year for X-rays and maintenance. Impacted wisdom teeth that are left untreated can lead to periodontal disease and tooth decay and may cause damage to surrounding teeth. If our doctors suggest extraction, it is promised that you will be made comfortable every step of the way.

If you have questions or concerns regarding wisdom teeth extraction or impacted wisdom teeth, 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.  

Celebrate Children’s Dental Health Month

February is the observance of the American Dental Association’s National Children’s Dental Health Month. Here at All Coast Dental, we celebrate our pediatric patients year-round and encourage parents to be well-informed about how to take care of their child’s teeth. Healthy teeth allow children to speak and eat normally and we can help make their oral care routine fun and not a chore.

Though baby teeth eventually fall out, it’s important to keep them as clean as possible. Preventive services include X-rays, dental sealants, orthodontic treatment and much more. Our doctors at All Coast Dental help parents review certain areas of prevention so that their child can have a healthy mouth throughout their lifetime. National Children’s Dental Health Month helps raise awareness about the importance of good oral health habits. How are you going to celebrate?

If you have questions or concerns regarding pediatric dentistry or pediatric 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.  

Losing the First Tooth

If you have a little kid that’s turning into a big kid, losing the first baby tooth is on the horizon.  This an exciting sign of growing up, but many kids still feel anxious or uncomfortable dealing with the unfamiliar sensation of a loose tooth.  The doctors and staff of All Coast Dental want kids and parents to be prepared and understand why this pain occurs so your child can still have a positive tooth loss experience.

Before a baby tooth is lost, it begins to break free of its nerve endings.  This is the natural process that makes the tooth feel loose and wobbly at the gums, and the area will become swollen and red.  It can be painful, and for kids a great way to soothe tooth pain is applying a cold compress to the outside of the mouth in the affected area.  Children may complain that they find it hard to bite or chew with loose or missing teeth.  It’s still important to keep eating healthy while they grow new teeth so encourage soup, pureed fruits, and cooked vegetables.  A few tales of the tooth fairy can usually ease a little pain, too!

To learn more about teeth cleanings and all the services provided at the 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.  

Keeping Up With Cleanings

The Academy of General Dentistry recommends having a dentist or hygienist perform a dental cleaning every six months.  At All Coast Dental, we want patients to maintain a great oral health routine at home, but it is still important to come into the office for regular professional cleanings.  However much you brush and floss, some harmful bacteria grow in your mouth that cause gum disease and can only be removed by a dental professional.

It’s important to see a professional regularly to locate and monitor areas in the mouth that may need special attention, and a dentist can tell you if you may be missing a spot or skipping an important step in your regular oral care routine.  During a teeth cleaning, a hygienist thoroughly clean the area above and below the gum line with scaling tools to rid them of plaque and tartar. After the surfaces of the teeth are cleaned, the hygienist flosses between every one of your teeth and may apply fluoride if recommended by the dentist.

To learn more about teeth cleanings and all the services we provide at the 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.  

Tooth Sensitivity

Teeth can grow to be sensitive for a variety of reasons, but the most common is lack of proper oral hygiene habits. Sensitive teeth may also be caused by poor dietary habits, and from brushing the teeth too hard. If your oral care routine isn’t up to par, or you that your gums are a little more tender than usual, our doctors at All Coast Dental can assist you in getting your periodontal and oral health back on track.

If you cringe while sipping hot or cold beverages, or become afraid to bite into an apple, you are likely a victim of tooth sensitivity. Sensitive teeth develop when the enamel that protects our teeth becomes thin, or when gums begin to recede from periodontal disease. Tooth sensitivity may come and go, but if it’s causing you pain, it’s important to seek help from one of our doctors at All Coast Dental to fix the problem.

If you have questions or concerns regarding tooth sensitivity, 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.  

Diode Laser (Sol)

Dental diode lasers, sometimes called soft-tissue lasers, are utilized by our doctors at All Coast Dental to aid in cutting or contouring oral soft tissues. These types of lasers are capable of creating precise cuts in the gum tissue and other soft tissues while also eliminating bleeding at the site and reducing the healing time for the patient. The SOL Diode Laser is designed with the patient in mind.

Dental lasers such as the SOL is safe and effective for managing gum tissue during impressions for crowns or other procedures, removing inflamed gum tissues and aid in the treatment of gum disease. There are many advantages of laser dentistry because lasers allow for a more relaxed experience in the dental chair. Additionally, lasers can reduce symptoms and healing times as opposed to using dental drills and other traditional therapies.

If you have questions or concerns regarding laser dentistry, 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.  

Alcohol and Oral Cancer

We’re proud to provide oral cancer screenings at All Coast Dental in Pacific Beach. Dentistry is an important component of overall health, and dentists are a key part of oral cancer patients’ care team. Recently, the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) released some new findings about the relationship between oral cancer and alcohol which we want our patients to be aware of.

Alcohol had long been associated with several types of cancers. But it was unclear from past research how much of an issue it presented to the organs along the airways independent of tobacco. After reviewing the research, the ASCO found that alcohol consumption causes about 5% of new cancers each year, including oral cancer cases. It is unclear why—perhaps alcohol damages the lining of the mouth, and there is a risk of DNA being miscopied each time the lining rebuilds. What was clear was that the type of alcohol consumed was irrelevant and that light and moderate drinking also posed a risk, although heavy drinking is the most dangerous. The study also found that, while other types of damage alcohol does to the body may be long-lasting, if a person stops drinking, their risk of contracting cancer along their airways declines to the level of people who never drank.

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 All Coast Dental and fill out a contact sheet.

 

Dental Anxiety in Children

Patients who feel anxious about seeing the dentist have nothing to worry about at All Coast Dental. We offer anesthetic and sedation options that are safe for all ages and ensure everyone will have a pain-free appointment. However, the thought of going to the dentist is often stressful, especially for children, which is why we wanted to offer some guidance.

Dentists typically recommend that a child’s first dental appointment be made when their first tooth begins to erupt and be scheduled for every six months thereafter. Nevertheless, some psychological preparation is usually necessary when children are old enough to know about the appointment ahead of time. The best advice is to keep things casual. If a parent repeatedly tells a child to be brave or that there will be a reward later, they are sending the message that they expect the appointment to be difficult. Children tend to pick up most of their attitude from their parents, so if a child is nervous, the parent may need to ask their partner to accompany the child instead. It is not usually necessary to explain any more than that the doctors and hygienists want to help keep people’s teeth clean and healthy. We can give provide the child with more thorough explanations for what we are doing, if they want, and provide them with an opportunity to explore the chair and learn about our tools.

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 All Coast Dental and fill out a contact sheet.