Beverly Hills Dentistry

I always recommend a soft bristled toothbrush.  For patients that have a hard time brushing their teeth, I recommend an electric toothbrush as long as the toothbrush is actually doing the work and the electric toothbrush is not damaging the gums.

There are several things you can do to prevent halitosis.  It is important to make sure there are no systemic problems like stomach or acid reflux that can cause bad breath.  You should have the teeth cleaned every three to six months.  Also, use mouthwash and avoid foods that can cause bad breath like onions, garlic and soy sauce.

So, in order to prevent halitosis:
•    Watch what you eat
•    Have professional cleanings
•    Be sure to floss and brush your teeth regularly
•    Make sure that there are no cavities or inflammation of the gums

Yes, there is a possibility that the teeth can be two different colors.  But, the newer styles of braces I have seen typically do not cause that type of a problem.

However, there is always a possibility that there can be some decalcification where the braces were bonded to the tooth.  The best thing you can do is to brush and clean the braces three times a day, as well as having dental cleanings every three months.  This will help to make sure there is no plaque build up around the brackets.

Yes, resin fillings wear out a little bit easier than traditional fillings.  The newer generation of resin fillings is a lot harder than older resin fillings.  However, they can wear down especially if the person grinds their teeth or has a diet that requires excessive chewing.

I am a firm believer that the mercury content in silver fillings is not good for you.  My personal preference is not to have any silver fillings.

Fillings last somewhere between six to eight years before there is leakage around the fillings and they have to be replaced.  But, I have seen fillings that are ok after ten years and I have seen fillings that need to be replaced after four years.  This is why it is always best to have regular checkups and have the dentist or hygienist check the fillings.

Veneers are bonded to the tooth with cement that is the color of the desired veneer.  Bonding materials are then applied to the surface of the tooth as the veneer is affixed to the tooth with the cement.

Bands on braces help to speed up the movement of the tooth in a particular direction.

There are several reasons that teeth might be sensitive to hot or cold including:
•    Clenching or grinding the teeth
•    The enamel of the tooth being gone
•    Gum recession where the roots are exposed
•    If there are cavities

Sometimes, when sensitivity is due to gum recession where the roots are exposed, brushing with fluoride toothpaste helps to plug up the holes at the roots and the sensitivity goes away.  If the sensitivity is due to another reason it may not go away and it is best to have your teeth examined by a dentist.

Sensodyne combines fluoride and other ingredients to plug the “holes” or areas of the tooth that are sensitive which causes the sensitivity to subside.