Carlsbad DentistCarlsbad, CA

Qualities that make a good dentist

A Carlsbad dentist practicing general dentistry will have a four-year undergraduate. The individual will also obtain a degree from an accredited dental school. Cosmetic dentists and emergency dentists have additional training and practice. Dentists will take continuing education courses to keep abreast of the latest practices and breakthroughs in the profession.

Good dentists can make the right diagnoses of mild, moderate, and serious oral health issues. People should look for dentists who have experience working with patients of all ages. Seek dentists who offer both treatments for health conditions and cosmetic problems. The right dentist will also consult with patients on different options for treatments.

The importance of good oral hygiene

Dental problems and aesthetic concerns are both linked to poor oral hygiene habits. People who do not brush and floss effectively and regularly are likely to develop tooth decay. Infections from abscesses can also result. Tooth loss and bone loss can follow. Failing to follow these practices, as well as visiting the Carlsbad dentist often, can also lead to teeth discoloration and other cosmetic blemishes.

Teeth whitening

The color of a person’s teeth can vary from individual to individual. Genetics can determine the color shade. However, the natural white color can change over time and turn yellow, brown, or gray due to ineffective brushing and flossing (or a lack of these habits). Eating and drinking foods and beverages can also stain teeth gradually.

To whiten teeth, a Carlsbad dentist has multiple options to offer to patients. Most often, the patient will use bleaching techniques. These include using store-bought products such as toothpaste, mouthwash, or whitening strips. For longer-lasting treatment and faster results, patients should consider take-home trays or in-office whitening.

Take-home trays are mouthguard-like appliances that fit over the patient’s jaws. The dentist will send the person home with a whitening gel. This normally contains concentrated hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. The person wears these overnight for several weeks. Patients should have whiter teeth after completing the treatment.

In-office treatment is similar. The person only needs to make one or two visits for the procedure, though. The whitening gel is highly concentrated. The dentist will use light or heat to activate the chemicals.

Dental implants

One of the most embarrassing cosmetic situations in dentistry is when a person loses a permanent tooth. Having a gaping space in the mouth can be embarrassing and hinders an individual’s smile. A missing tooth can also affect the person’s ability to chew and can alter speech. When one tooth is missing, the surrounding teeth can drift, become loose, and fall out.

Dental implants are perhaps the most effective way to replace a missing tooth. This is a good option for a single missing tooth or multiple missing teeth. Implants consist of a titanium post, an abutment, and a crown. Getting implants requires a significant financial commitment and can take several months to complete. However, there are many benefits. These include restoring the person’s smile and the function of the mouth.

To give a patient implants, a Carlsbad dentist first cuts into the gums. Next, the dentist drives the screw-like post deep into the jawbone. After closing the wound, the patient heals over the next few months. After healing, and after the bone and post fuse properly, the patient comes back. The dentist then reopens the wound and attaches the abutment. More healing takes place before the patient comes back to get the crown.

Cosmetic dentist

A cosmetic dentist is someone in the field of dentistry who focuses on how the teeth and gums look. This work includes improving the size, shape, color, and position of the teeth. A cosmetic dentist is the right person to see when the way the teeth look is interfering with a healthy, full smile. These dentists can help patients achieve their goals when it comes to the aesthetics of a smile.

Cosmetic dentists can repair broken teeth by placing crowns or veneers. A cosmetic dentistry office may also use these treatments as an alternative to teeth whitening. When a patient has crooked or misaligned teeth, a cosmetic dentist can suggest crowns or veneers. Patients should consult this dentist when they need an opinion about which treatment to choose.

Emergency dentist

Minor and moderate dental issues can ordinarily wait a few weeks or months until the next appointment with a Carlsbad dentist. However, when the problems become serious or even life-threatening, it is time to see an emergency dentist. At this office, the patient can come to address intense tooth pain, jaw pain, bleeding from the gums, and extensive tooth damage. An emergency dentist can provide the immediate support the person needs.

Many reasons to see a Carlsbad dentist

Some people have anxiety about visiting the dentist. You may have similar feelings, but the dentist is not someone you should avoid. Whether it is a cosmetic matter or something affecting your health, visit our office for your next dental appointment. Our dentist can improve your smile and get your oral health back on track.