My Blog Name http://gallardodentalcenter.com/blog.php My blog description en-us Are Your Yellow Teeth Making a Lasting Impression About You? http://gallardodentalcenter.com/blog.php?d=32

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Whether it is to improve self esteem, make you look more attractive to others or simply to keep up with the Jones’s, teeth whitening is certainly all the craze today. Movie stars have sparkling white teeth; many reality stars have them and so do virtually all television personalities (news, sportscaster’s, talk show hosts and so on).

Like those waif-looking beauties strutting down the modeling runways, these enamel glistening posers must all be seeing the dentist to the stars, or are they? I mean who has such perfect teeth? Hollywood stars are known for their cigarette smoking, coffee drinking and of course, frequent visits to rehab. Don’t all of these things stain their teeth?

Sure they do, but they also sought professional dental help to restore their pearly whites to their natural shine. These celebrities do not rely on the over-the-counter remedies we all see on TV and in the grocery store. They get theirs done right by a professional.

We too all want glistening white teeth but many of us don’t feel like bothering with the process, are deterred by the cost or simply don’t know how to go about realizing the best results. But one thing is for sure…beautifully white teeth will make us feel better and look better. There is no doubt about it.

Graying or yellowing teeth are the result of damage to the pigmentation of your teeth. With the proper treatment, you can restore your teeth to their natural shine but you must first choose the process that is best for you.

The two most effective approaches to teeth whitening are in-office laser treatment and at-home teeth whitening with custom-fit trays designed by your dentist. Most over the counter remedies will work to some degree but will not guarantee the same level of results these professional treatments will. Over-the-counter approaches will likely lighten your teeth by three to five shades while professional treatments will improve pigmentation by 10 shades or more.

A good ballpark price range for the in-office laser treatment is somewhere between $400-$900 for both the top and bottom teeth. However, in many cases, more than one treatment will be necessary for the best results and your dentist may recommend you follow up this treatment with a custom-tray at-home remedy prescribed by them. This will obviously add more cost to your bottom line.

Putting the premium pricing aside, the biggest advantage to professional treatments is the immediacy and duration of the effect. With the laser treatment, you will see full results as soon as the procedure is finished, and with at-home custom-fit trays, your dentist has given you professional-grade bleaching gel to keep your teeth white for a long time to come. Tre White by Opalescence, is a professional whitening kit that has pre filled disposable trays worn for 30-60 minutes once a day. You’ll see results in 5 to 10 days..

While teeth whitening may or may not be something you are considering right now, some things are for sure when you do decide to take the plunge:

· You will feel more confident

· You will look more attractive

· People won’t be turned off by your graying/yellowing smile any longer

The approach is much cheaper and less intrusive than other cosmetic surgeries like liposuction, face lifts and tummy tucks

There is no pain involved

It is completely safe

The best thing for you to do if you are considering brightening your teeth is to speak with your dentist who will discuss the best treatments for you.

If you do make the choice to whiten your teeth with Tre White, we would love it if you would send us some before and after pictures so we can showcase them on our site.

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Mon, 08 Oct 2018 19:28:16 +0000 http://gallardodentalcenter.com/blog.php?d=32
Preventing Dental Plaques in Children http://gallardodentalcenter.com/blog.php?d=31

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If you can not be very helpful in caring for your teeth, remember that there is a dentist on the street. And if he can not help, then you've screwed up. It was your lack of cooperation not to use toothpaste.

A smile accompanied by a set of white pearls should come from the mouth and not from a glass on your bedside table.

If the toothpaste could talk, then we could find out what goes on behind the scenes about how it goes about preventing tooth decay and what plans are made before starting its battle against plaque attack, instead we should rely on the instructions It comes in toothpaste.

The toothpaste is a container to have a beautiful dental smile and to keep the gums healthy, they are all medically proven ingredients in the world of dentistry, Remember that you will have fewer dental appointments when brushing three times a day.

Children need to be taught the importance of taking care of their teeth, so it is only fair for parents to share their knowledge and teach children from an early age about oral hygiene.

Introducing the baby to your new first toothbrush can be fun, think about having a Disney character logo on it. This will encourage him to use that brush and better yet, the baby will know that this particular bristle cleaner is his.

Experiencing your first encounter with the toothbrush should be an exciting event for the baby, in which you show your child what it is for and how to use it.

This will not be too difficult because, as we know, all the babies put everything in their mouths, so there half the battle is won. A good way to start is with a plastic cup containing two tablespoons of water, then squeeze a small amount of toothpaste into the liquid and then stir. This can become a messy routine, so be sure to put on your wetsuit.

The baby will love every minute to dip his own brush in and out of the cup, remember to supervise the baby at all times. Regular check-ups at the dentist will allow the baby to feel more comfortable with visits to the dental office.

Mouth cancer is very common so be aware of any unusual symptoms that cause you concern regarding mouth ulcers swelling or sore gums. Please consult a dental surgeon immediately.

Listen to the dentist and advice he can give you to keep the mouth hygienically healthy. If your dental surgeon recommends a treatment where you need a cavity filler or an extraction, even a polish, request an asp appointment. Otherwise, you will only make things worse for you and your pocket in case you are a private patient.

It suits you to adhere to the golden rules on how to keep your teeth and gums healthy. This can save a lot of pain and suffering in the future.

Wisdom learns from the mistakes of others. For the people of yesterday who chose not to squeeze the tube of toothpaste, they will continue to soak their teeth overnight in a glass of water for the rest of their lives.

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Mon, 10 Sep 2018 16:53:16 +0000 http://gallardodentalcenter.com/blog.php?d=31
​The Three Teeth Whitening Techniques http://gallardodentalcenter.com/blog.php?d=30

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A great smile can prove to be a valuable asset, particularly when you first meet someone. However, people who have brown or yellow stained teeth are very conscious of this shortcoming. It may also cause social insecurity. One of the best treatment methods available to gain back that white perfect smile is teeth whitening. The basic methodology of teeth whitening is that it reverses the process of discoloration of teeth, bleaching them to reveal the white enamel again.

Teeth generally darken over a period of time. This may be due to consumption of caffeine-containing drinks (like tea, coffee and cola) or tobacco products. Also, excessive fluoride production and use of antibiotic medication can also lead to teeth discoloration. However, the biggest factor contributing to the loss of whiteness is age. Teeth whitening, to counter the process of discoloration, is one of the safest and the most popular procedure in cosmetic dentistry. Studies indicate that almost 96% of the people who undergo this treatment experience visible benefits.

There are three options available to those considering this procedure – you can either undergo professional bleaching, try home bleaching or use whitening toothpastes. Of the three listed, the quickest and the most effective is professional bleaching. It is also referred to as In-Office or Chair-side bleaching. It usually requires two or more visits to a dentist. However, the effects are much long lasting than any other procedure. The dentist will apply a bleaching agent to your teeth. The gums, however, are not harmed. The most common mouth guard is a gel or rubber shield. After the dentist has carefully applied the bleaching agent to your teeth, he might want to use additional heat or light procedures to make the agent work faster. A usual treatment sitting might last from 30 minutes to an hour.

The second option that is available to you is that of home bleaching. You can buy a kit from any certified pharmacist or dentist. This kit would usually contain a hydrogen peroxide based bleaching gel or solution. This is meant to be applied to the tooth enamel. As a rule, a mouth guard is also included in the kit. You are supposed to place the solution or gel in the mouth guard and then follow the directions given with the equipment. The frequency of use and the duration of treatment for home bleaching vary. Overnight treatments work for a much shorter period. However, if you are, say, required to use the kit twice a day, the treatment might be effective for a longer period of time.

Whitening toothpastes work in a different way from bleaching techniques because they do not aim towards a permanent alteration of teeth color. They usually contain polishing agents. They work to remove some of the deeper stains, which a regular toothpaste might not effectively dislodge. You should always consult your dentist before going forth with any of these procedures – he is the best person to guide you and can advise you on the most effective treatment plan suited to your needs.

Copyright © Jared Winston, 2006. All Rights Reserved.

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Mon, 13 Aug 2018 20:36:20 -0700 http://gallardodentalcenter.com/blog.php?d=30
​Your Trusty, Toothy Friend http://gallardodentalcenter.com/blog.php?d=29

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Whether we like it or not, we all know that an important part of our dental care involves making regular trips to the dentist, but the foundation block of oral hygiene lies at home. Not only is brushing and flossing twice a day of the utmost importance in maintaining a healthy and attractive smile, but the tools we use to perform these daily rituals can also make or break a beautiful set of teeth. So don’t pick up any old toothbrush – find the one that’s right for you.

Our mouths, just like every other inch of us, come in all shapes and makes. We probably wouldn’t think too long about trying to squeeze into a shoe that doesn’t fit, but many of us expect that one size toothbrush should fit all. Baffled by the array of dental products we face in the store, we simply pick the color toothbrush we like best and move along, unwittingly undermining our oral health as we do so.

It is firstly important to find the right size toothbrush for our mouth, so that we can brush with comfort and reach the surface of every tooth. A tooth doesn’t get cleaned by just being in the vicinity of a brush! Be sure to find a toothbrush with the size and shape head that allows you to reach every surface of every single tooth.

Another important toothbrush quality is the type of bristles it utilizes. Bristles that are too hard can actually damage teeth and wear down the enamel that covers them, so be sure to opt for a softer type of brush, especially if you have a gum condition, such as gum disease or receding gums. For a good brushing down, look for a toothbrush with nylon bristles with rounded tips.

It is also of the utmost importance that you use a toothbrush that is up to the job, so be sure to replace your brush regularly. Every two to three months is a good time to replace, or when the bristles start to look bent and worn. Some toothbrushes some complete with a color-fade system that tells you exactly when your brush is ready for the garbage – simply ditch the brush when the colored bristles start to fade.

A healthy set of teeth is an important part of looking and feeling good, and your trusty toothbrush is an important tool to help you maintain your oral health. So treat your teeth well with the right toothbrush, and don’t be afraid to show your smile.

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Tue, 17 Jul 2018 06:50:23 -0700 http://gallardodentalcenter.com/blog.php?d=29
Stopping toothaches http://gallardodentalcenter.com/blog.php?d=28

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At one time or another, the world will experience a toothache. A toothache is very unbearable, it is one of the worst pains you will ever feel in your life. Although you may have had dental work in the past and followed proper hygiene, toothaches can occur at any time. Although it can be very painful, there are ways to get relief through natural herbal remedies or pharmaceuticals.

If you plan to use herbs, you should use them in the form of a tincture, as the alcohol content will disinfect the area and help reduce inflammation and kill the infection. Once you have the tincture, you should use about a teaspoon of it and gently rinse your mouth. Once you have it in your mouth for a minute or so, you should swallow it or spit it out. Tinctures are natural remedies that use herbs and alcohol to massage the affected area and stop the pain by numbing the nerves of the tooth is causing so much pain.

The best way to manage toothache is to reduce burning. If you manage to reduce the burning, the pain will decrease. Even if the pain goes away, the problem will continue until you go to the dentist and treat it. Although the dentist is the best option, you may have to wait for an appointment or have a toothache occur on a weekend or when the dentist is not available.

Your best advice is to seek dental care as soon as possible, since the infection can always come back at any time. If the problems are not solved as soon as possible, they can spread and cause more problems with the teeth. Cavities will need to be filled, while rotten or dying teeth will need to be removed. If detected early, the dentist can usually store the tooth through the root canal.

The most common way to stop a toothache is by using a medication such as Ambesol. With these types of toothache relief products, simply rub the ointment on the affected area and it will kill the pain. These products work quickly, although they may not be able to help if the infection has spread or become so bad that the tooth is literally dying.

Another way to stop the pain is to use Tylenol or aspirin. If you are going this route, you should use dissolving tablets. Simply take the tablet and place it in your mouth, then use your tongue to hold it against your tooth. Aspirin or Tylenol will begin to dissolve, and will work on your nerve and stop the pain. This is a very effective way to stop the pain, although once the pill dissolves it can leave a terrible taste in the mouth.

The best way to stop the pain is to visit the dentist and treat it once and for all. Keep in mind that if the problem is an infection, you should use antibiotics until the infection clears. Once the infection disappears, the dentist can continue with the treatment. Most toothaches are the result of a cavity that must be filled. Every time you start experiencing a toothache you should treat it. If you can not go to the dentist, simply get some Ambesol or another product that relieves the pain until you can go to the dentist and solve the problem.

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Thu, 07 Jun 2018 22:06:00 -0700 http://gallardodentalcenter.com/blog.php?d=28
The Importance of Dental Care http://gallardodentalcenter.com/blog.php?d=27

Regular visits to the dentist can be the key towards perfect oral health. This is important not only to keep your teeth and oral health in perfect working condition but also to prevent you from other bad health conditions. Regular visits to your dentist can be one of the surest means to have perfect dental health. It is recommended by experts to visit the dentist’s office regularly every 6 months. So it is very important for you to never forget your appointment with the dentist.



Any dental condition, if not treated properly and in time, can become a really bad situation. In fact dental conditions are often an indication of some other serious health conditions. Some of these severe health conditions can also be diabetes and HIV infection besides other conditions. Other than keeping your teeth in good condition, maintaining good oral health also gives confidence to a person about his overall appearance.


Following some simple methods of personal hygiene can go a long way in preventing severe dentals condition in individuals. Brushing of the teeth regularly twice a day has been taught to us since our childhood days. However many of us actually make the effort to brush our teeth twice daily to keep our teeth in good working condition. Brushing your teeth hardly requires two to three minutes. However it is also important to brush your teeth using the proper motion with your toothbrush. Also make sure to change your brush regularly.


Always use a mouthwash to keep your mouth clean and fresh. Use the mouthwash recommended by your cosmetic dentist regularly. Most dental specialists insist on the use of a mouthwash which contains fluoride. This is supposed to be excellent for your oral health. Fluoride is perfect for preventing and killing bacteria which is responsible for causing plague that leads to cavities and other gum diseases. Never forget to use mouthwash daily if you are concerned about your oral health.


Flossing your teeth regularly after brushing is another simple means which you can follow for good dental health. Simple flossing in any manner will not do, you must know and floss your teeth in the proper way. The proper way to floss your teeth is to place the floss very gently between your teeth in the gum portion. Flossing is important to remove that debris from the gum portion of your teeth which cannot be reached and removed by your tooth brush. If you are flossing for the first time, you can sometimes experience slight bleeding. Nonetheless this will stop once you start flossing your teeth regularly.


Eating a good balanced diet is also one criterion for having good dental health. Make sure that your everyday diet contains enough of calcium, iron and vitamins in the proper proportion. You can also take pill supplements of vitamin and calcium if you are not getting enough in your diet.


Finding a good dentist is also one of the parameter for having good oral health. There is no dearth of dentists anywhere, but what is important is finding a good dentist to help you in maintaining good oral health. If you can try to take opinions from people who have already used the services of the dentist and see if they are really as efficient as they claim to be!


Today more than ever before, people find the need to take more care of their looks. Oral health is one of the most important aspects of looking good and appearing presentable. Dentistry procedures have greatly evolved over time and many new techniques are being undertaken to help people maintain good oral health. Today almost any kind of dental defect can be mended by a dentist due to advancement in technology.
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Thu, 17 May 2018 14:59:29 -0700 http://gallardodentalcenter.com/blog.php?d=27
Understanding Toothaches http://gallardodentalcenter.com/blog.php?d=26

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As we all know, toothaches are the result of several different factors. The pain that stems from a toothache is always apparent, normally in the form of throbbing. The pain will normally intensify as time goes by, when you eat, lay down, or drink hot/cold liquids. Toothaches are very painful, and it may seem that no matter what you do - it seems to hurt more.

In the dental world, toothaches can include such things as cavities, infections or abscess in the teeth or gums, debris that has been trapped between the teeth and gums, and trauma to the face, teeth, or the jaw. Sometimes, toothaches can result from medical conditions and have nothing to do with dental. In most cases, if the problem goes without being checked, it can lead to serious trouble and maybe even become a life threatening situation.

Normally, when you have a toothache, you’ll experience tremendous pain. The pain will stem from the affected tooth or the jaw, and you’ll know it almost immediately. It will start out to be a throbbing pain, then continue to get worse and worse until you get it treated. If you wait too long and allow the infection to spread throughout the tooth, you’ll end up having to get it pulled or cut out.

Anytime you start to experience a toothache, you shouldn’t hesitate to make an appointment with your dentist to have it checked. Sometimes, getting an appointment when your tooth starts hurting is easier said than done. Even though you may be able to use certain products to stop the pain, the pain will always come back until you get the problem fixed. A toothache will always come back, until you get the tooth taken care of.

If you visit your dentist in time and he catches the problem early, he may be able to save your tooth. Normally, this will result in a filling, crown, or root canal, although you won’t have to have the tooth removed. Dentists always look to save teeth, as they don’t like to remove a tooth unless they absolutely have to. If the tooth has become abscessed, the dentist will put you on antibiotics such as penicillin until the infection has subsided enough to remove the tooth.

Throughout our lives, most of us will experience the pain and agony of a toothache at some point. A toothache can be the worst pain you have ever felt in your life, especially if you are feeling the pain of an abscess. If you’ve never had a toothache, you should consider yourself lucky. Those who have had toothaches though, will tell you that the pain is something you never want to experience - it will make you feel as if your whole world is falling apart.

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Thu, 12 Apr 2018 09:27:31 -0700 http://gallardodentalcenter.com/blog.php?d=26
​Keeping Your Veneers in Good Shape http://gallardodentalcenter.com/blog.php?d=24

Photo Creddit: By GORBACHEVSERGEYFOTO on Pixabay. CC0 license.

Many people are scared to get dental veneers as they fear that maintaining them could be a pain. Fortunately, this is anything but the case. Dental veneers can be maintained with very little work on your part. You will find, however, that they may require a bit of habit adjustment.

For the most part, dental veneers should be treated as your own teeth. That means brushing and flossing them everyday. If brushing and flossing your teeth on a daily basis is uncommon to you, you should reconsider getting dental veneers. You will find that your investment will go down the toilet faster than you can say Colegate.

Now comes the part which many will frown upon - habit adjustment. Like it or not, dental veneers will require you to adjust your eating habits. Since they are somewhat delicate, you risk fracturing them in the event that you consume hard foods. It is best to talk to your cosmetic dentist about the foods which are allowed and not allowed to consume. A little spoiler - among the hard foods include apples and hard candy.

If any of the above sounds a bit scary to you, you should seriously reconsider getting dental veneers. At nearly $1,000 a tooth, veneers deserve to be treated with utmost caution and care. Asking you to brush your teeth daily is not asking much, but changing your eating habits can be a problem for many. Before making any final determination, it is advisable that you consult with your cosmetic dentist. He or she will be able to further elaborate on everything which goes into maintaining your dental veneers.

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Wed, 04 Apr 2018 20:20:55 -0700 http://gallardodentalcenter.com/blog.php?d=24
​Types of Dental Teeth Fractures http://gallardodentalcenter.com/blog.php?d=23

Photo credit: By AlbanyColley on Pixabay. CC0 License.

Fractures are a common thing in the world of dentistry. Fractures or cracks occur with all ages, although they are more present in those above the age of 25. They can be very painful, hard to diagnose, yet sometimes easy to treat. There are several types of fractures, which we will look at below.

The first type of crack is known as an oblique supragingival fracture. This fracture is found above the gums, and normally happens when you bite down too hard on something. Normally, this fracture doesn’t involve the nerve. Once the fractured area of the tooth breaks off, the pain will go away. Although the exposed dentin may cause you some pain, you can visit the dentist and have it repaired. If the fracture is large, you may need to have a crown placed on the tooth to prevent further fractures from occurring in that tooth.

The second type of crack exceeds way below the gum line, and is known as an oblique subgingival fracture. Once the fractured piece of tooth breaks off, it normally remains attached to the gums and cause result in terrible pain until you get it removed. Once you have had the piece of tooth removed from the gums, the tooth will be similar to the supragingival fracture. It normally doesn’t affect the nerves, although as a result of the tooth area being lost, you may need to have a root canal to clean out the tooth before having a crown put on it.

The seriousness of this fracture depends on how far it has went beyond the gum line. If it has made it’s way deep into the gum line, you may not be able to save the tooth. The crack can be present for many years, before you start to feel any pain. To be on the safe side, you should go to your regular checkups with your dentist, as he can check for cracks and other problems.

The oblique root fracture is next, although it doesn’t involve the tooth crown at all. This type of fracture is almost always found below the gums, normally under the bone. If a root fracture is found near the crown of the tooth, it will normally prove to be fatal. Sometimes, you can save the tooth with a root canal, even though it is normally lost later on due to an abscess of the bone that surrounds the fracture.

The last type of fracture is the most difficult to deal with. Vertical apical root fractures occur with the tip of the root, and can cause you severe to intense pain, even if you’ve had the nerve removed with a root canal. Even though the nerve may not be present, vertical apical root fractures cause a lot of pain, which occurs in the tooth.

Normally, vertical apical fractures will cause you more pain than any other type of fracture. The resulting pain comes from the fragments putting pressure on the bone, causing the fractured pieces to strain. Just about the only way to get relief from this type of fracture is to get a root canal, as it will ease the pain and get the dead pulp out of the tooth that’s affected with the fracture.

Even though fractures are very common and very painful, you should never put off going to the dentist. Fractures can become more and more serious if you don’t do something about them, which is why you should never hesitate to go to the dentist. Your dentist will be able to diagnose the problem, and fix it before it has the chance to get any worse.

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Wed, 07 Mar 2018 14:12:52 -0700 http://gallardodentalcenter.com/blog.php?d=23
Dealing With Infections http://gallardodentalcenter.com/blog.php?d=22

Once a tooth has been extracted, bacteria will still be alive in the mouth, even more so with those who have bad oral hygiene. Infections are very common following extractions. Depending on how bad the tooth was that the dentist removed, he may prescribe you some antibiotics to take that will greatly reduce your risk of getting an infection. In some cases though, even antibiotics can’t prevent an infection.

If you go to the dentist before the extraction experienced swelling of the face, swollen gums, pain in your teeth under light pressure, or bleeding around the extraction site, then you may already have an infection. If you indeed have an infection before you get the tooth treated, the dentist will prescribe you antibiotics to use following treatment. If you have a really bad abscess, you’ll need to use antibiotics to treat the infection before the dentist will remove the tooth.

In some cases, people develop an infection after the extraction, even though they may not have been infected beforehand. The reason for this, is bacteria. Following an extraction, bacteria will be more alive in the mouth than ever before. With the extraction site being exposed, the bacteria will be able to get into the site. This can lead to an infection due to the site being exposed and the fact that you are unable to use mouthwash or brush during the first 24 - 48 hours. Not being able to sterilize your mouth means that you are unable to kills the germs responsible for bacteria.

After extractions, the first sign of infection is renewed bleeding. This normally occurs around 48 hours after the extraction. Even though it normally isn’t severe, you should still call your dentist and make an appointment to be seen. Your dentist will be able to stop the bleeding and give you some antibiotics and other prescriptions that will fix the problem.

Some dentists prefer to give patients antibiotics before they will do any type of extraction. Although you may not have an abscess, most dentists prefer to get rid of the infection before they start doing their work. They do this because they know the local anesthesia won’t work all that good with infections, and it may take them a lot of work and a lot of medicine to numb the area that you have the infection in.

In the event that the tooth has to be removed and the dentist simply cannot wait a few days, it is possible to get you numbed. Although it will take quite a bit of medicine to numb the area, it can be done. Sometimes, dentists will choose to use an IV sedation or laughing gas, in the event that local numbing doesn’t help. An IV sedation will normally put you to sleep or knock you out, so that the dentist can remove the tooth that is causing you so much trouble.

Even though infections can cause a lot of pain and need to be dealt with immediately, you may not have to take antibiotics once the dentist has extracted the tooth. If your mouth is clean and you don’t have a lot of germs, you can normally heal the would by taking care of it. Rinsing your mouth out with salt water for the first few days will keep the extraction site clean. As long as you take care of the extraction site and do what your dentist tells you, you shouldn’t have any further problems with the extraction site or the infection.

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Thu, 15 Feb 2018 20:18:54 -0700 http://gallardodentalcenter.com/blog.php?d=22
​New Smile Shapers http://gallardodentalcenter.com/blog.php?d=21 Help You Make a Better First Impression...

Photo Credit: By bruce mars on Pexels. CC0 License.

We don't want to believe it, but it's true. Looks do matter.

Everyone knows it's important to look good for a job interview or beauty pageant, but how much do looks matter in everyday situations? Do attractive people get better service, more money, more prestige? Many sociology studies say yes.

For instance, a "Dateline NBC" segment compared various "everyday" responses to a female and male model with responses to an average looking female and male. In almost all cases, from dropping papers to being "lost in the city," the models were treated significantly better than their counterparts. With facts like these, it's no wonder why people go to great lengths to improve their appearance.

When it comes to a beauty boost, many people start with their smile. A bright, healthy smile can immediately bolster anyone's looks. That's why more and more people are visiting their dentists for cosmetic procedures to improve worn, misshapen and misaligned teeth.

However, the veneers that are traditionally used are generally associated with discomfort and pain. They bring to mind long, painful hours in the dentist's chair. But now, new technology, like Lumineers by Cerinate, makes the smile-enhancement process easy and painless. Lumineers are contact-lens thin, super translucent "smile shapers" that make worn and misshapen teeth look straighter, more uniform and permanently white in the most natural way possible.

Lumineers, which can only be made from Cerinate Porcelain have a great advantage. The procedure requires little to no sensitive tooth structure removal for application. This means no injections and virtually no grinding down, drilling, shaving or cutting away of teeth. Since the process is so simple and gentle, the sensitivity usually felt after a traditional restoration procedure is eliminated.

"Lumineers are changing the way dentists improve teeth, giving patients the confidence to go for the smile they've always wanted," said David Nusblatt, a dentist in New York.

In just two visits to the dentist, you can have a smile that's custom made for you and clinically proven to last up to 20 years.

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Fri, 02 Feb 2018 14:20:32 -0700 http://gallardodentalcenter.com/blog.php?d=21
The Dry Socket http://gallardodentalcenter.com/blog.php?d=20

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Even though they aren’t life threatening like bleeding or abscesses, dry sockets can be extremely painful. They are very common following surgery, and happen to be one of the most painful post extraction problems. Dry sockets are more common with removal of the lower teeth than they are with removal of upper teeth. No matter what type of extraction you have performed, a dry socket can occur with any type.

Although there is really no way to prevent a dry socket, you can help to reduce the risk by following your after surgery directions. Even though you may be following the directly precisely, you could still end up with a dry socket. They are known as a quirk of nature, and will make you feel like you are on your death bed - although you really aren’t. Those who are more at risk to dry sockets include those who smoke following extractions, and those who like to grind their teeth frequently.

A dry socket is a condition where the blood clot that forms after an extraction detaches itself from the socket walls. Sometimes, the clot will dissolve, leaving the bone exposed to food, the weather, and even saliva. Once the bone is exposed, it can become inflamed. The inflammation that occurs is very painful, often times being a deep pain that makes you feel as if you are dying.

If you leave it alone, the dry socket will heal. It will normally take around a month or so, although the pain won’t let up during the healing period. If you have a dry socket, you’ll find that antibiotics and even the strongest of prescription drug won’t cure it. An antibiotic will normally cure infections, although a dry socket isn’t considered to be an infection.

The best way to fight a dry socket is to go back to your dentist and have him pack the socket. Packing the socket is done without any anesthesia and can be quite painful. It doesn’t take long to complete, and it can provide relief from the pain. Once you have a dry socket, you won’t care about anything but stopping the pain. The pain can be so intense at times that you will be willing to do anything to stop the pain - even for a few minutes.

Once the socket has been packed, you will be relived from pain for a day or so. If you go back to your dentist, he will remove the old packing, wash the socket out, and place a new packing in. This way, you can get relief from the pain and help the socket heal. Keep in mind that it will take time to heal - and the best way to stop the pain is to do your best to avoid a dry socket at all costs.

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Wed, 17 Jan 2018 19:37:02 -0700 http://gallardodentalcenter.com/blog.php?d=20
​Abscessed Teeth http://gallardodentalcenter.com/blog.php?d=19

Photo Credit: On Pexels. CC0 License.

An abscess in the tooth refers to an infection that was caused by a pocket of pus residing in the tissue around the tooth. Abscesses are very serious conditions, and can lead to serious matters if they aren’t treated immediately. When the pulp of a tooth dies due to damage or decay, bacteria will begin to grow from the dead tissue that is left. This bacteria will eventually spread from the root of the dead tooth into the tissue that is below and create a pocket of pus - the abscess.

Gum disease is also a cause for a tooth becoming abscessed. Gum diseases causes the gums to pull back and away from teeth, leaving pockets behind. When one of the pockets becomes blocked, the bacteria can grow and spread, or get backed up. When this happens, an abscess will start to form under the surface of the gums and become apparent will swelling as it gets bigger and spreads.

Once the infection has started to spread, your jawbone may start to dissolve as it makes room for the swelling in the area that has been infected. Once the bone starts to dissolve, the pressure will be greatly reduced, although the infection will still be there. Even though you will get relief, the infection will get worse - and the pain will always come back. Once more of the bone has been dissolved, there will be nothing left to support the tooth, meaning that it will become loose and end up needing to be extracted.

The symptoms of an abscessed tooth are easy to see, as they include severe pain in the affected area, red or swollen gums, a bad taste in your mouth, swelling around the area or the jaw, and possibly a high fever. Pain is excruciating with an abscess, normally affecting the area in a bad way. No matter what you do, the pain seems to intensify.

Abscesses mostly occur with back teeth, although they can happen in the front as well. Once your tooth has become abscessed, your dentist won’t immediately pull it. If a tooth that has abscessed is extracted once the infection is still present, it can quickly spread. Your dentist will instead prescribe you some antibiotics that can help to destroy the bacteria.

The dentist can also perform a root canal, in an attempt to remove dead or decayed tissue. Last but not least, he can also drill a hole in the tooth to give the infection a chance to drain and try to remove any dead pulp. The most common treatment with an abscess is to use antibiotics to kill the infection, then get the tooth removed. You should never let it get that bad - as an abscess is something that can destroy your jawbone.

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Thu, 04 Jan 2018 17:55:34 -0700 http://gallardodentalcenter.com/blog.php?d=19
Gallardo Dental: Superior Dental Care! http://gallardodentalcenter.com/blog.php?d=18

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Thu, 28 Dec 2017 09:36:32 -0700 http://gallardodentalcenter.com/blog.php?d=18
​A Look at Fillings http://gallardodentalcenter.com/blog.php?d=17

Photo Credit: By rgerber On Pixabay. CC0 License.

Fillings are very common with dental work, as they present a way to repair a tooth that has suffered from decay or a cavity back to it’s original shape. When performing a filling, the dentist will remove the decayed area of the tooth, clean around it, then fill in the area that he has removed with a special material that will cater to the shape and form of the tooth.

Fillings work by closing out the area where the bacteria enters into teeth, helping to prevent any type of decay in the future. The materials used for fillings include porcelain, gold, composite resin, and amalgam. There is really no best type of filling, as several factors come into play. Your reaction to different material, the shape of the tooth, extent of repair, and where the filling is needed will be determining factors as to what material is used with your filling.

The gold fillings that are used are made in a laboratory, then cemented into place by the dentist. Gold material fits well with the gums, and can last you for many years. Gold is considered by many to be the best, although it is also the most expensive and will require you to visit the dentist several times before the filling will be complete.

Silver fillings on the other hand, are less expensive than gold materials and they can be quite resistant to wear. With their color being dark, they are easier to notice than composite or porcelain fillings, and aren’t recommended for visible areas of the mouth, especially the front teeth. Composite fillings are a common type of material, as they match the color of your teeth. The material that makes up the composite filling is mixed then placed directly in the cavity, where it hardens. They last several years, although composite isn’t recommended for large cavities, or areas where they may chip.

The final type of filling is porcelain. Porcelain is very common, and produced in lab where it will be matched to your teeth then bonded to the affected tooth. Porcelain fillings match the color of your teeth, and are resistant to any type of staining. The costs for porcelain fillings can be very expensive, some costing as much as gold fillings.

If a cavity, decay, or even a crack has managed to damage a large area of the tooth, you may need a crown or a cap. If the decay has managed to get to the nerve, you may end up needing a root canal to get rid of the dead pulp. When the dentist decides he can fill your tooth, he will remove the cavity then fill the hole with a material listed above. Depending on your insurance and what you can afford, you can choose which one you want or take his recommendation. In most cases, porcelain or composite fillings will be recommended. Gold fillings are popular, although most people want a filling that will match the natural color of their teeth.

Keep in mind that only a dentist can make the decision regarding fillings. When you visit for your routine checkup, the dentist will look in your mouth and use instruments that will let him examine the surfaces of your teeth. If he finds any cavities, he will usually recommend a filling. You won’t feel anything, as he will numb the area he is going to be filling. It normally takes less than an hour, and you’ll be up and at ‘em before you know it. A filling is great for cavities, as most look natural and they won’t result in the loss of your tooth.

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Thu, 14 Dec 2017 18:11:43 -0700 http://gallardodentalcenter.com/blog.php?d=17
​Dental Bridges http://gallardodentalcenter.com/blog.php?d=16 From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Types of bridges may vary, depending upon how they are fabricated and the way they anchor to the adjacent teeth. Conventionally, bridges are made using the indirect method of restoration. However, bridges can be fabricated directly in the mouth using such materials as composite resin.

The materials used for the bridges include gold, porcelain fused to metal, or in the correct situation porcelain alone. The amount and type of reduction done to the abutment teeth varies slightly with the different materials used. The recipient of such a bridge must be careful to clean

Abutment evaluation

When a single tooth requires a crown, the prosthetic crown will in most instances rest upon whatever tooth structure was originally supporting the crown of the natural tooth. However, when restoring an edentulous (without teeth) area with a bridge, the bridge is almost always restoring more teeth than there are root structures to support, for instance a 5-tooth bridge supported on three abutment teeth.

To determine whether or not the abutment teeth can support a bridge without failure from lack of support from remaining root structures, the dentist employs Ante's rule—which states that the roots of abutment teeth must have a combined surface area in three dimensions that is more than that of the missing root structures of the teeth replaced with a bridge. When the situation yields a poor prognosis for proper support, double abutments may be required to properly conform to Ante's rule.

When a posterior tooth intended for an abutment tooth already possesses an intracoronal restoration, it might be better to make that bridge abutment into an inlay or an onlay, instead of a crown. However, this may concentrate the torque of the masticatory forces onto a less enveloping restoration, thus making the bridge more prone to failure.

In some situations, a cantilever bridge may be constructed to restore an edentulous area that only has adequate teeth for abutments either mesially or distally. This must also conform to Ante's rule but, because there are only abutments on one side, a modification to the rule must be applied, and these bridges possess double abutments in the majority of cases, and the occlusal surface area of the pontic is generally decreased by making the pontic smaller than the original tooth.

Tooth preparation

As with preparations for single-unit crowns, the preparations for multiple-unit bridges must also possess proper taper to facilitate the insertion of the prosthesis onto the teeth. However, there is an added dimension when it comes to bridges, because the bridge must be able to fit onto the abutment teeth simultaneously. Thus, the taper of the abutment teeth must match, to properly seat the bridge. This is known as requiring parallelism among the abutments.

When this is not possible, due to severe tipping of one of more of the abutments, for example, an attachment may be useful, as in the photo at right, so that one of the abutments may be cemented first, and the other abutment, attached to the pontic, can then be inserted, with an arm on the pontic slipping into a groove on the cemented crown to achieve a span across the edentulous area.

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Wed, 29 Nov 2017 17:49:46 -0700 http://gallardodentalcenter.com/blog.php?d=16
​The Importance of FlossingYour Teeth http://gallardodentalcenter.com/blog.php?d=15 By Wikipedya, the free encyclopedia.

Tooth brushing alone will not remove plaque from all surfaces of the tooth as 40% of the surfaces are interdental. One technique that can be used to access these areas is dental floss. When the proper technique is used, flossing can remove plaque and food particles from between the teeth and below the gums, The American Dental Association (ADA) reports that up to 80% of plaque may be removed by this method. The ADA recommends cleaning between the teeth as part of one's daily oral hygiene regime.

There are different types of floss available, including:

Unwaxed floss: Unbound nylon filaments that spread across the tooth. Plaque and debris get trapped for easy removal.

Waxed floss: less susceptible to tearing or shredding when used between tight contacts or areas with overhanging restorations.

Polytetrafluoroethylene (Teflon): Slides easily through tight contacts and does not fray.

A dental hygienist demonstrates dental flossing.

The type of floss used is a personal preference, however without proper technique it may not be effective. The correct technique to ensure maximum plaque removal is as follows:

Floss length: 15–25 cm wrapped around middle fingers.

For upper teeth grasp the floss with thumb and index finger, for lower teeth with both index fingers. Ensure that a length of roughly an inch is left between the fingers.

Ease the floss gently between the teeth using a back and forth motion.

Position the floss in such a way that it becomes securely wrapped around the interdental surface of the tooth in a C shape.

Ensure that the floss is taken below the gum margins using a back and forth up and down motion.

There are a few different options on the market that can make flossing easier if dexterity or coordination is a barrier, or as a preference over normal floss. Floss threaders are ideal for cleaning between orthodontic appliances, and flossetts are ideal for those with poor dexterity.


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Fri, 24 Nov 2017 10:22:03 -0700 http://gallardodentalcenter.com/blog.php?d=15
​Tooth Decay http://gallardodentalcenter.com/blog.php?d=14 On Wikipedia

Photo Credit: On Pexels, CC0 License.

Tooth decay, also known as dental caries or cavities, is a breakdown of teeth due to acids made by bacteria. The cavities may be a number of different colors from yellow to black. Symptoms may include pain and difficulty with eating. Complications may include inflammation of the tissue around the tooth, tooth loss, and infection or abscess formation.

The cause of caries is acid from bacteria dissolving the hard tissues of the teeth (enamel, dentin and cementum). The acid is produced from food debris or sugar on the tooth surface. Simple sugars in food are these bacteria's primary energy source and thus a diet high in simple sugar is a risk factor. If mineral breakdown is greater than build up from sources such as saliva, caries results.

Risk factors include conditions that result in less saliva such as: diabetes mellitus, Sjogren's syndrome and some medications. Medications that decrease saliva production include antihistamines and antidepressants. Caries is also associated with poverty, poor cleaning of the mouth, and receding gums resulting in exposure of the roots of the teeth.

Prevention of dental caries includes regular cleaning of the teeth, a diet low in sugar, and small amounts of fluoride. Brushing the teeth twice per day and flossing between the teeth once a day is recommended by many. Fluoride may be from water, salt or toothpaste among other sources. Treating a mother's dental caries may decrease the risk in her children by decreasing the numbers of certain bacteria.

Screening can result in earlier detection. Depending on the extent of destruction, various treatments can be used to restore the tooth to proper function or the tooth may be removed. There is no known method to grow back large amounts of tooth. The availability of treatment is often poor in the developing world. Paracetamol (acetaminophen) or ibuprofen may be taken for pain.

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Thu, 02 Nov 2017 08:45:49 -0700 http://gallardodentalcenter.com/blog.php?d=14
​Cosmetic Dentistry http://gallardodentalcenter.com/blog.php?d=13 Information by: Wikipedia

Photo credit: By Vanessa Serpas. Unsplash License.

Cosmetic dentistry is generally used to refer to any dental work that improves the appearance (though not necessarily the functionality) of teeth, gums and/or bite. It primarily focuses on improvement dental aesthetics in color, position, shape, size, alignment and overall smile appearance. Many dentists refer to themselves as "cosmetic dentists" regardless of their specific education, specialty, training, and experience in this field. This has been considered unethical with a predominant objective of marketing to patients. The American Dental Association does not recognize cosmetic dentistry as a formal specialty area of dentistry. However, there are still dentists that promote themselves as cosmetic dentists.

Examples

Whitening, or "tooth bleaching", is the most common cosmetic dental procedure. While many whitening options are now available, including over the counter products, dentist-supervised treatments remain the recommended procedures for lightening discolored teeth.

Teeth reshaping (sculpting) and bonding performed in one office visit.

Laser whitening is a teeth whitening technique in which gums are covered with rubber and a bleaching chemical is applied on the teeth. A beam of argon laser, which is intended to accelerate the process of bleaching, is then projected upon the teeth. This laser activates the bleaching chemical and lightens the teeth color.[5] Laser whitening is said to be six times more effective in teeth whitening compared to other procedures.

Tooth reshaping removes parts of the enamel to improve the appearance of the tooth. It may be used to correct a small chip, or to alter the length, shape or position of teeth, as well as when there is Tooth Size Discrepancy; it can be used to correct crooked or excessively long teeth. The removed enamel is irreplaceable, and may sometimes expose dentin. It is also known as enameloplasty, odontoplasty, contouring, recontouring, slenderizing, stripping. This procedure offers fast results and can even be a substitute for braces under certain circumstances.

Bonding is a process in which an enamel-like dental composite material is applied to a tooth's surface, sculpted into shape, hardened and then polished.

Dental bridges are used to replace one or more missing teeth. Teeth on both sides of the space left by the missing teeth are prepared. A bridge is made up of abutments, the teeth that are prepped, and the missing, false teeth, which are called pontics. This procedure is used to replace one or more missing teeth and is cemented in. Bridges can consist of more than three teeth in total and the viability of any bridge is usually determined by applying Ante's Law and where in the mouth the teeth are. Most bridges are fixed, they can’t be removed. Fixed bridges cannot be taken out in the same way that partial dentures can. In areas of the mouth that are under less stress, such as the front teeth, a cantilever bridge may be used. Cantilever bridges or Maryland Bridges are used to replace anterior or front missing teeth, are minimally invasive but do have a reputation for failure. Bridges require commitment to serious oral hygiene and carry risk. The average life of bridges is similar to that of crowns which is nearly ten years.

Veneers are ultra-thin, custom-made porcelain laminates that are bonded directly to the teeth. They are an option for closing gaps, enhance the shape, or change the color of teeth that do not respond well to whitening procedures. In the majority of the cases, some level of tooth reduction is necessary for optimal results.

Dental Implants are prosthetic replacements for missing teeth. According to ICOI (International Congress of Oral Implantologists) there are commonly three parts to what it is described as an implant: the implant device which is predominantly made of titanium (which is inserted into the bone), the abutment, and a dental crown or a denture which are connected to the implant through the abutment.

Gum lift is a cosmetic dental procedure that raises and sculpts the gum line. The procedure involves reshaping the tissue and/or underlying bones to create the appearance of longer or more symmetrical teeth.

Invisalign treatment is being used as an alternative to traditional metal braces. Invisalign helps in treating spacing, crowding, and overlapping teeth to create the smile patients desire. This system has treated hundreds of thousands of patients and has been around for over a decade. Clear aligners are comfortable, invisible and easy to clean.

Bite Reclamation is for patients who have had years of excessive wear to their teeth due to grinding or acid reflux can alter their vertical dimension. This gives them a closed or shorter look to their face and smile. By opening up their bite, a qualified professional can reclaim their vertical dimension.

Inlays and Onlays are used to repair decayed & cracked teeth. These are helped at those parts of teeth when a filling is too small to correct the decayed teeth and a crown would be excessive.

In the past, dental fillings and other tooth restorations were made of gold, amalgam and other metals—some of which were veneered with porcelain. Now, dental work can be made entirely of porcelain or composite materials that more closely mimic the appearance of natural tooth structure. These tooth colored materials are bonded to the underlying tooth structure with resin adhesives. Unlike silver fillings (amalgams) they are entirely free of mercury. Cosmetic dentistry has evolved to cover many new procedures and new dental materials are constantly introduced.

Looking for a smile design?

Just give us a call at: 713 988 5858 and book your appointment with Dr. Luis Gallardo D.D.S.

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Tue, 24 Oct 2017 16:33:51 -0700 http://gallardodentalcenter.com/blog.php?d=13
​Gingivitis http://gallardodentalcenter.com/blog.php?d=12 Information on Wikipedia

Photo Credit: On Pixabay. CC0 License.

Inflammation of the gum tissue is a non-destructive disease that occurs around the teeth. The most common form of gingivitis, and the most common form of periodontal disease overall, is in response to bacterial biofilms (also called plaque) that is attached to tooth surfaces, termed plaque-induced gingivitis.

While some cases of gingivitis never progress to periodontitis, data indicates that periodontitis is always preceded by gingivitis.

Gingivitis is reversible with good oral hygiene; however, without treatment, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, in which the inflammation of the gums results in tissue destruction and bone resorption around the teeth. Periodontitis can ultimately lead to tooth loss.

The symptoms of gingivitis are somewhat non-specific and manifest in the gum tissue as the classic signs of inflammation:

  • Swollen gums
  • Bright red or purple gums
  • Gums that are tender or painful to the touch
  • Bleeding gums or bleeding after brushing and/or flossing
  • Bad breath (halitosis)

Additionally, the stippling that normally exists in the gum tissue of some individuals will often disappear and the gums may appear shiny when the gum tissue becomes swollen and stretched over the inflamed underlying connective tissue. The accumulation may also emit an unpleasant odor. When the gingiva are swollen, the epithelial lining of the gingival crevice becomes ulcerated and the gums will bleed more easily with even gentle brushing, and especially when flossing.

Risk factors

Risk factors associated with gingivitis include the following:

  • Age
  • Osteoporosis
  • Low dental care utilization (fear, financial stresses, etc.)
  • Poor oral hygiene
  • Overly aggressive oral hygiene such as brushing with stiff bristles
  • Mouth-breathing during sleep
  • Medications that dry the mouth
  • Cigarette smoking
  • Genetic factors
  • Pre-existing conditions

Treatment

Gingivitis before (top) and after (bottom) a thorough mechanical debridement of the teeth.

Analgesic and antiseptic gum paint with applicator buds used in treatment of gingivitis

The focus of treatment is to remove plaque. Therapy is aimed at the reduction of oral bacteria and may take the form of regular periodic visits to a dental professional together with adequate oral hygiene home care. Thus, several of the methods used in the prevention of gingivitis can also be used for the treatment of manifest gingivitis, such as scaling, root planing, curettage, mouth washes containing chlorhexidine or hydrogen peroxide, and flossing. Interdental brushes also help remove any causative agents.

Prevention

Gingivitis can be prevented through regular oral hygiene that includes daily brushing and flossing. Hydrogen peroxide, saline, alcohol or chlorhexidine mouth washes may also be employed. In a 2004 clinical study, the beneficial effect of hydrogen peroxide on gingivitis has been highlighted.

Rigorous plaque control programs along with periodontal scaling and curettage also have proved to be helpful, although according to the American Dental Association, periodontal scaling and root planing are considered as a treatment for periodontal disease, not as a preventive treatment for periodontal disease. In a 1997 review of effectiveness data, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) found clear evidence showing that toothpaste containing triclosan was effective in preventing gingivitis.

Powered toothbrushes work better than manual toothbrushes in reducing the disease.

The bacteria that causes gingivitis can be controlled by using an oral irrigator daily with a mouthwash containing an antibiotic. Either amoxicillin, cephalexin, or minocycline in 16 ounces of a non-alcoholic fluoride mouthwash is an effective mixture.

Overall, intensive oral hygiene care has been shown to improve gingival health in individuals with well-controlled type 2 diabetes. Periodontal destruction is also slowed down due to the extensive oral care. Intensive oral hygiene care (oral health education plus supra-gingival scaling) without any periodontal therapy improves gingival health, and may prevent progression of gingivitis in well-controlled diabetes.

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Tue, 03 Oct 2017 14:28:21 -0700 http://gallardodentalcenter.com/blog.php?d=12
​Malocclusion http://gallardodentalcenter.com/blog.php?d=11

Crédito Foto: En Pexels, CC0 License.

By: Wikipedia

A malocclusion is a misalignment or incorrect relation between the teeth of the two dental arches when they approach each other as the jaws close. The term was coined by Edward Angle, the "father of modern orthodontics", as a derivative of occlusion. This refers to the manner in which opposing teeth meet.

Malocclusions may be coupled with skeletal disharmony of the face, where the relations between the upper and lower jaws are not appropriate. Such skeletal disharmonies often distort sufferer's face shape, severely affect aesthetics of the face, and may be coupled with mastication or speech problems. Most skeletal malocclusions can only be treated by orthognathic surgery.

Classification

Depending on the sagittal relations of teeth and jaws, malocclusions can be divided mainly into three types according to Angle's classification system published 1899. However, there are also other conditions, e.g. crowding of teeth, not directly fitting into this classification.

1. Neutrocclusion: Here the molar relationship of the occlusion is normal or as described for the maxillary first molar, but the other teeth have problems like spacing, crowding, over or under eruption, etc.

2. Distocclusion: (Retrognathism, overjet, overbite) in this situation, the mesiobuccal cusp of the upper first molar is not aligned with the mesiobuccal groove of the lower first molar. Instead it is anterior to it.

3. Mesiocclusion: (Prognathism, Anterior crossbite, negative overjet, underbite), in this case the upper molars are placed not in the mesiobuccal groove but posteriorly to it. Usually seen as when the lower front teeth are more prominent than the upper front teeth. In this case the patient very often has a large mandible or a short maxillary bone.

Other kinds of malocclusions can be due to tooth size or horizontal, vertical, or transverse skeletal discrepancies, including skeletal asymmetries. Long faces may lead to open bite malocclusion, while short faces can be coupled to a Deep bite malocclusion. However, there are many other more common causes for open bites (such as tongue thrusting and thumb sucking), and likewise for deep bites. Upper or lower jaw can be overgrown or undergrown, leading to Class II or Class III malocclusions that may need corrective jaw surgery or orthognathic surgery as a part of overall treatment, which can be seen in about 5% of the general population.

Oral habits and pressure on teeth or the maxilla and mandible are causes of malocclusion too.

In the active skeletal growth, mouth breathing, finger sucking, thumb sucking, pacifier sucking, onychophagia (nail biting), dermatophagia, pen biting, pencil biting, abnormal posture, deglutition disorders and other habits greatly influence the development of the face and dental arches.

Pacifier sucking habits are also correlated with otitis media.

Dental caries, periapical inflammation and tooth loss in the deciduous teeth alter the correct permanent teeth eruptions.

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Wed, 27 Sep 2017 08:49:01 -0700 http://gallardodentalcenter.com/blog.php?d=11
Advantages of Offering a Dental Benefits Plan to Employees http://gallardodentalcenter.com/blog.php?d=10 By: Gallardo Dental

Photo Credit: On Pixabay, CC0 license.

A Dental insurance or dental benefit plan is viewed upon as a much sought after employee benefit. So financially it makes sense to have a dental benefit plan in place to recruit and retain employees. Moreover, dental health is a very important part of overall employee health and man days lost due to dental problems or dental discomfort of an employee equates to financial loss for the employer.

Unlike most medical conditions, dental maladies and treatments are low risk, predictable and low cost. These factors contribute to offering dental insurance to employees a good option financially. Dental diseases are preventable by maintenance and often involve only maintenance costs like x-rays and examinations. Treatment is rendered cheap due to diagnosis in early stages of the disease. Keeping these financial factors in mind, dental insurance options can also be self funded. History does not show any extremes in costs or utilization of this form of employee benefit.

Selecting the right Dental Insurance Plan

Selecting the right dental plan involves a lot of factors which have to be considered with due care.

Dental insurance plans are basically agreements between the employer and the insurance company. Most plans offered by dental insurance companies allow for part reimbursement of dental treatment expenses. Many plans also discourage certain kind of treatments or allow access to certain of dentists. To consider these points one has to go through the plan very carefully with a toothcomb. For example choosing a dentist is not same as choosing a dentist from “the list”, or if the plan does not cover one kind of treatment, it is wrong to infer that your regular dentist is incompetent.

Many plans do not cover pre existing conditions. Some may not cover implants and so on. Due to these preconditions, the final treatment may be paid for in part only or in insurance parlance you might be reimbursed for LEAT (Lease Expensive Alternative Treatment). Dental insurance plans vary in fixing the UCR (usual, customary, and reasonable) in a certain geographical area. UCR may vary from plan to plan and company to company despite operating in the same area. Therefore fixation of this UCR level would define the liability of the patient. In some plans the patient may have to pay more and in some he may have to pay less depends upon the plan the employer has offered.

Important factors while finalizing on a Dental Insurance Plan

An employee has to ask himself the following before he finalizes on a plan:

Would the employees like to retain the freedom of choosing their own dentists?

Willthe mode of treatment be determined by the patient and the dentist?

Whattype of routine and preventive dental care is covered? Does the plan cover braces, oral surgery, crowns and bridges, root canals and treatment of periodontal diseases?

Will the plan cover all diagnostic, preventive and emergency services? Including preventive services viz. sealants & fluoride treatments, which might result in financial savings to the patient in future? Does it provide for full-mouth x-rays?

What forms of major dental care is covered? Does the plan cover implants, dentures, or treatment for temporomandibular disorders?

Does the plan allow for specialist referrals? If so, has the dentist be limited to “the” list of specialists to choose form?

Does the plan provide for emergencies? What are the provisions made for emergency care when the patient is on tour?

What percentage of monthly premiums goes into actual care and not to administration?

Dental Insurance benefit coverage should be taken into consideration but should not be the deciding factor in choosing the treatment.

Managed care and Fee-for-service.

Managed care dental plans are restricted forms of dental insurance which aim at reducing costs and payouts. They tend to restrict the coverage by limiting the access to care by restrictions (by predefining dentist, specialist, hospital or treatments in form of lists) and restricting level, type and frequency of treatment (usually in form of clauses in the coverage policy).

Fee-for-service dental plans have a freedom of choice options where one can choose their own dentist and the fee is paid as fixed by the dentist.

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Tue, 05 Sep 2017 15:27:31 -0700 http://gallardodentalcenter.com/blog.php?d=10
​Dental Assistants in Orthodontics http://gallardodentalcenter.com/blog.php?d=9 By: Gallardo Dental Center

Photo credit: U.S. Army Garrison Red Cloud via Foter.com / CC BY-NC-ND.

Dental Assistants are becoming more and more popular in the area of orthodontics. This is due to new technology for orthodontics as well as the increase in the number of children and adults seeking orthodontic care. Dental Assistants normally complete a variety of duties including sterilizing dental tools and assisting both Dentists and Hygienist with procedures. This generally entails sitting in on such procedures, handing the staff the necessary tools and equipment as the procedure it taking place. Dental Assistants may also find themselves assisting with lab work.

The role of Dental Assistant in the area of Orthodontics is different. They will generally still be responsible for sterilizing all dental tools. However, they will have more hands on work inside the mouth of the patient. These tasks include fixing loose brackets, changing rubber bands, and tightening wires. Many Dental Assistants love working in orthodontics because of the hands on work they get to do with the patient. They also enjoy getting to see the patient every few weeks from the beginning of the process until the end. Generally individuals wear braces for two years or longer.

Being a Dental Assistant in an orthodontic setting is not something that is commonly taught in a Dental Assistant program. It is a specific area of specialization, and most Dental Assistant programs are designed to give you an understanding of the basic elements of dentistry only.

Most training for Dental Assistants in the area of orthodontics takes place on the job. Generally, by having another Dental Assistant walk you through the process, then watching you perform it on actual patients. This can be intimidating for some Dental Assistants as they are used to learning by observing in the dental field rather than taking on the task at hand. Other Dental Assistants thrive in this type of learning environment, enabling them to really excel in the orthodontic field.

With the use of Dental Assistants, many orthodontic offices are meeting the demand for treatment in a very unique way. Dental Assistants are set up to specialize in a particular area of the orthodontic process. Many patients are scheduled for the same appointment time, and then dispersed to various dental assistants depending on their needs.

For example, one such dental facility has all patients sign in to see the Orthodontist first. He quickly reviews their progress, documents the chart, and puts the chart into a file on the wall. Dental Assistants come here to pull the charts of those in their slot on the wall. There are Dental Assistants to take X-Rays and to make adjustments. These adjustments include adjusting wires and changing rubber bands. Other Dental Assistants perform repairs including changing brackets and removing excess cement on the teeth. There are also Dental Assistants to remove the braces and others to take the molds for retainers.

Once the patient has seen the necessary Dental Assistant based on the needs that should be addressed during that visit, the patient is taken back to the area where they first signed in. They again see the dentist who reviews the work completed by the Dental Assistant. The Dentist will record necessary notes on the chart including when the patient should be seen again. The patient then takes their chart to the reception area, schedules an appointment, and they are on their way. This method has proven to be fast and effective. It is well organized, like worker ants doing their part to make it all flow well.

The advantage to this type of system is that more patients can be seen on a daily basis. Therefore, the cost of treatment is often reduced. However, patients will find themselves seen by numerous Dental Assistants over the course of their treatment. Many Dental Assistants enjoy working in the area of orthodontics. They like the hands on interaction with the patients as well as providing quality care to those in need of orthodontic procedures.

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Tue, 22 Aug 2017 16:37:57 -0700 http://gallardodentalcenter.com/blog.php?d=9
Halitosiis http://gallardodentalcenter.com/blog.php?d=8 By: John P. Cunha

Photo Credit: On Pexels, CC0 License.

Bad breath, or halitosis, is characterized by an unpleasant odor of the mouth. Halitosis can occur on occasion, or it can be a chronic condition. READ MORE>


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Tue, 15 Aug 2017 09:30:05 -0700 http://gallardodentalcenter.com/blog.php?d=8
​Best Foods for Oral Health http://gallardodentalcenter.com/blog.php?d=7 By: 404dental

Photo Credit: On Pexels, CC0 License.

Time and again we’ve all heard that sugar is bad for our teeth. This is due to bacteria in the mouth, which converts sugars and carbohydrates into acids. read more>

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Mon, 07 Aug 2017 08:30:58 -0700 http://gallardodentalcenter.com/blog.php?d=7
​10 Advantages of Porcelain Veneers http://gallardodentalcenter.com/blog.php?d=6 By: New Port Pagnell Dental

Photo credit: Dr. Alper, DMD, Cosmetic Dentist via Foter.com / CC BY.

Veneers can be used to give you a brand new, beautiful smile. If your teeth are chipped, stained, or just plain worn, porcelain dental veneers are a great way to reshape and brighten your smile! read more>


If you are interested in enhancing your smile, and would like to know more about veneers why not arrange a consultation with one of our dental professionals? Contact us on Gallardo Dental: 713 988 5858

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Mon, 31 Jul 2017 15:17:06 -0700 http://gallardodentalcenter.com/blog.php?d=6
​Gum Swelling During Orthodontics http://gallardodentalcenter.com/blog.php?d=4 By: Dr. Kimberly Ann Mahood

Orthodontic treatment can indeed make a dramatic improvement in your smile; yet it can also increase the risk of gum disease. READ MORE>

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Tue, 18 Jul 2017 17:17:35 -0700 http://gallardodentalcenter.com/blog.php?d=4
Consequences of Tooth Loss http://gallardodentalcenter.com/blog.php?d=2 By: Studio Dentaire

Credit Image: On Pexels, CC0 License.

Everybody is at risk of loosing a tooth, but depending of a person’s age, reasons of tooth loss can be different. READ MORE


In order to prevent all those problems, there are many options to replace your lost teeth and keep you healthy. Just give us a call at: 713 988 5858 and schedule your appointment with Gallardo Dental Center for valuation

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Mon, 03 Jul 2017 14:50:19 -0700 http://gallardodentalcenter.com/blog.php?d=2