Oral Health for Seniors: Addressing Dental Concerns for Older Adults

Senior woman about to brush her teeth

As we age, maintaining oral health becomes increasingly important. Seniors may face a variety of dental concerns that can affect their quality of life. Common issues include gum disease, tooth decay, and tooth loss. These problems can make eating and speaking difficult, and may even impact overall health.

Taking care of your teeth and gums is essential for seniors. Regular dental visits and good daily oral hygiene practices can help prevent many common dental problems. It’s never too late to start taking better care of your mouth. With the right approach, you can keep your smile healthy and strong throughout your golden years.

This article will provide useful information and tips on addressing the dental concerns that come with aging. By understanding the common issues and how to manage them, seniors can enjoy better oral health and a higher quality of life.

Common Dental Issues in Seniors

As we get older, our mouths change, and some dental problems become more common. Senior adults often face issues such as gum disease, tooth decay, and tooth loss.

  1. Gum Disease: Also known as periodontal disease, gum disease is an infection of the gums that can lead to tooth loss if not treated. Symptoms include red, swollen gums, bleeding when brushing, and bad breath.
  2. Tooth Decay: Cavities can still develop in older adults. Seniors may also experience root decay due to receding gums, exposing the roots of the teeth to plaque and bacteria.
  3. Dry Mouth: Some medications taken by seniors can cause dry mouth, reducing saliva flow. Saliva helps clean the mouth and neutralize acids, so a lack of it can lead to tooth decay and gum disease.
  4. Tooth Loss: Tooth loss is a common problem among older adults. Missing teeth can make eating and speaking difficult, and may affect self-confidence.

By recognizing these common issues, seniors can take steps to address them and maintain better oral health.

Importance of Regular Dental Check-ups

Regular dental check-ups are crucial for maintaining oral health, especially for seniors. Visiting the dentist at least twice a year can help prevent problems or address them early before they become serious.

Here are some reasons why regular check-ups are important:

  1. Early Detection: Dentists can spot problems like cavities, gum disease, and oral cancer early. Early treatment can prevent more serious conditions and save your teeth.
  2. Professional Cleaning: Even if you brush and floss daily, plaque and tartar can still build up. Professional cleanings remove these deposits and keep your teeth and gums healthy.
  3. Preventive Care: Dentists can provide treatments like fluoride varnishes or dental sealants to help prevent tooth decay. They can also recommend tips to improve your oral hygiene routine.
  4. Addressing Concerns: Regular visits allow you to discuss any concerns you have about your oral health with your dentist. Whether it’s dry mouth or a loose tooth, your dentist can offer solutions.

Regular dental check-ups are an important part of keeping your mouth healthy and identifying issues before they become serious problems.

Daily Oral Hygiene Practices for Seniors

Maintaining good daily oral hygiene is essential for keeping your mouth healthy as you age. Regular care can help prevent many common dental issues.

  1. Brush Properly: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Brush your teeth at least twice a day for two minutes each time. It’s important to brush all surfaces of your teeth, including the gumline and tongue.
  2. Floss Daily: Flossing removes food particles and plaque between teeth that brushing can’t reach. Do this at least once a day to keep your gums healthy.
  3. Use Mouthwash: An antibacterial mouthwash can help reduce plaque and prevent gum disease. Rinse your mouth daily with mouthwash to keep it clean and fresh.
  4. Maintain Dentures: If you wear dentures, clean them daily using a denture cleaner. Brush your gums, tongue, and roof of your mouth before putting them back in to keep your entire mouth healthy.
  5. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to help wash away food particles and keep your mouth moist. This also helps prevent dry mouth, which can lead to dental issues.

Following these daily practices can make a significant difference in maintaining your oral health.

Solutions for Missing Teeth: Dentures, Implants, and Bridges

Tooth loss can happen as we age, but there are effective solutions like dentures, implants, and bridges to restore your smile and function.

  1. Dentures: Dentures are removable appliances that replace missing teeth. They can be partial (for some missing teeth) or full (for all teeth on the upper or lower jaw). Dentures improve chewing and speaking and help maintain the shape of your face.
  2. Dental Implants: Implants are a permanent solution for missing teeth. They involve placing a titanium post into the jawbone, which acts as a root. A crown is then placed on top. Dental implants look and feel like natural teeth and can last for many years with proper care.
  3. Bridges: Dental bridges literally “bridge” the gap created by one or more missing teeth. They are made up of two or more crowns for the teeth on either side of the gap, with a false tooth in between. Bridges are cemented into place and help restore your smile and bite.

Consulting with your dentist can help you choose the best option for your needs, ensuring a comfortable and functional solution for missing teeth.

Oral health is a vital part of overall health, especially for seniors. Common dental issues can be managed with proper care and regular dental check-ups. By understanding the importance of maintaining daily oral hygiene and exploring solutions for missing teeth, seniors can enjoy a healthier, more confident smile.

At Spath Dentistry, we are home to the best dentists in Newport Beach, CA. As such, we are dedicated to helping seniors maintain excellent oral health. Whether you need routine check-ups, cleaning, or solutions for missing teeth, our dentist in Newport Beach is here to provide personalized care. Take the first step towards better oral health by scheduling your appointment with Spath Dentistry today. Keep your smile bright and healthy for years to come!

Summer Dental Tips: Keeping Teeth Healthy During Summer Activities

Dental

Summer is a time for fun in the sun, enjoying ice cream, and going on vacations. But while you’re enjoying your favorite summer activities, it’s also important to keep your teeth healthy. Sweet treats, dehydration, and changes in routine can impact your oral health. Knowing how to protect your smile can help you avoid dental problems and keep your teeth looking great.

Hot weather and outdoor activities can lead to dehydration, which affects your saliva production. Saliva is crucial for washing away food particles and keeping your mouth clean. Without enough saliva, you can experience dry mouth, increasing the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. It’s essential to stay hydrated and make smart choices about what you drink.

Vacations and summer outings can also disrupt your usual dental care routine. It’s easy to forget to brush and floss when you’re busy having fun. Taking a few simple steps can help you maintain your oral hygiene and prevent dental emergencies. Being prepared and knowing what to do if a dental problem occurs can save you a lot of trouble.

Protecting Your Teeth from Summer Treats

Summer is full of delicious treats like ice cream, popsicles, and fizzy drinks. While these are tasty, they can harm your teeth if you’re not careful. The high sugar content in these treats creates an environment where harmful bacteria thrive. These bacteria produce acids that attack your tooth enamel, leading to cavities and tooth decay.

To enjoy summer treats without damaging your teeth, consider these tips:

  1. Choose Healthier Options: Opt for sugar-free snacks and drinks. Fresh fruits like watermelon and apples are sweet but less harmful and provide vital nutrients.
  2. Moderate Your Intake: Limit the number of sugary treats you consume. It’s okay to enjoy them occasionally, but don’t overdo it.
  3. Rinse Your Mouth: After eating sugary foods, rinse your mouth with water to wash away the sugar and acids. This simple step can help protect your enamel.
  4. Brush and Floss: Maintain your regular brushing and flossing routine. Brush at least twice a day and floss daily to remove food particles and plaque.

By making smart choices, you can savor your favorite summer snacks while keeping your teeth healthy.

Staying Hydrated: Why Water Is Best

Staying hydrated is crucial, especially during the summer. While it might be tempting to reach for sodas or sports drinks, water is the best option for both your overall health and your teeth.

Here’s why water is the best choice:

  1. Neutralizes Acids: Water helps neutralize the acids in your mouth, reducing the risk of tooth decay. Acidic drinks can erode enamel, making teeth more susceptible to cavities.
  2. Aids in Saliva Production: Drinking water keeps your mouth hydrated, promoting saliva production. Saliva is vital for cleaning your mouth and protecting your teeth from decay.
  3. No Added Sugars: Unlike sodas and juices, water doesn’t contain added sugars that can harm your teeth. Sugary drinks feed harmful bacteria that produce acids leading to cavities.
  4. Clears Food Particles: Water helps wash away food particles and debris that can get stuck between your teeth, lowering the chance of plaque buildup.

Carrying a water bottle and sipping water throughout the day is an easy way to protect your teeth and stay refreshed during summer activities.

Oral Hygiene Tips for Vacation

Going on vacation doesn’t mean your dental care routine should take a break. It’s easy to forget about oral hygiene when you’re having fun, but keeping your teeth clean is important, even when you’re away from home.

Here are some simple tips to maintain your routine:

  1. Pack the Essentials: Make sure to bring a travel-sized toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss. These items are easy to pack and can be used anywhere.
  2. Stay Consistent: Stick to your brushing and flossing routine. Brush at least twice a day and floss daily, even when you’re busy exploring new places.
  3. Limit Snacks: Try to limit how often you snack during the day. Constant snacking can increase the risk of cavities, especially if you’re eating sugary or acidic foods.
  4. Chew Sugar-Free Gum: If you can’t brush right away after a meal, chewing sugar-free gum can help clean your teeth and freshen your breath.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your teeth stay healthy, no matter where your vacation takes you.

Emergency Dental Care: What to Do When Accidents Happen

Dental emergencies can happen anytime, including during summer activities. Knowing what to do and contacting the best dentist in Newport Beach, CA with your dental emergencies can make a big difference and help save your teeth.

Here are steps to take in some common dental emergencies:

  1. Knocked-Out Tooth: If a tooth gets knocked out, try to place it back in the socket without touching the root. If that’s not possible, keep it in a container of milk or saliva and seek dental help immediately.
  2. Chipped or Broken Tooth: Save any pieces of the tooth you can find. Rinse your mouth with warm water to clean the area and use a cold compress to reduce swelling. Visit a dentist as soon as possible.
  3. Toothache: Rinse your mouth with warm water and floss gently to remove any food particles. Avoid applying aspirin to the area, as it can burn the gum tissue. If the pain persists, contact a dentist.
  4. Lost Filling or Crown: If a crown falls off, try to keep it safe and make a dental appointment right away. You can use dental cement available in pharmacies to temporarily reattach it.

Having a plan can help you stay calm and protect your smile during unexpected situations. If you’re experiencing a dental emergency in Newport Beach, CA don’t hesitate to call us at Spath Dentistry we can help assist your needs.

Summer is a great time for fun activities, tasty treats, and memorable vacations. However, it’s important to keep your dental health a priority amid all the excitement. By protecting your teeth from sugary snacks, staying hydrated with water, maintaining your oral hygiene routine on vacation, and knowing how to handle dental emergencies, you can ensure a healthy smile all summer long.

At Spath Dentistry, we’re here to help you keep your teeth in top shape. Whether you need a routine check-up or have a dental emergency, the best dentists in Newport Beach are ready to provide the care you need. Enjoy your summer with a bright, healthy smile. Schedule your next appointment with Spath Dentistry’s emergency dentist today and keep your teeth shining!

Enjoy Comfortable Dental Visits with Sedation Dentistry at Spath Dentistry in Newport Beach

Sedation Dentistry

Many people suffer from dental anxiety or phobia, leading them to delay or avoid necessary dental treatments. This apprehension not only compromises their oral health but also impacts their overall well-being. Understanding the prevalence of dental anxiety and the consequences it can have, the compassionate and dedicated team at Spath Dentistry in Newport Beach, California, is committed to ensuring that every patient feels comfortable, respected, and stress-free during their dental visits. This is where sedation dentistry – an invaluable solution to ease dental anxiety – plays a pivotal role in the transformative dental care provided at Spath Dentistry.

In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the various types of sedation dentistry available in Newport Beach, CA, discuss their benefits, and explain how the best dentists at Spath Dentistry ensure a comfortable, relaxed, and safe dental experience. From mild to moderate or deep sedation, we will delve into the different levels of sedation and their suitability for various dental procedures. Furthermore, we will address common myths and misconceptions around sedation dentistry to provide you with a clear understanding of this transformative approach to patient care.

By opting for sedation dentistry in Newport Beach, you can let go of your fears and apprehension, knowing that their skilled and empathetic team is committed to delivering the top-rated general and cosmetic dental care you deserve in a relaxed, safe, and comfortable environment. With their dedication to redefining self-esteem and confidence one smile at a time, Spath Dentistry ensures that their patients can maintain optimal oral health without any unnecessary stress or anxiety.

Types of Sedation Dentistry: An Overview

Find Your Ideal Sedation Dentistry Service in Newport Beach

Sedation dentistry offers a variety of methods and levels of sedation to ease dental anxiety and ensure a comfortable, worry-free experience. Broadly, these can be categorized into the following types:

  1. Nitrous Oxide Sedation: Commonly known as “laughing gas,” nitrous oxide is a mild form of sedation, inhaled via a small mask placed over the nose. The gas provides a sense of relaxation and euphoria, making the dental experience more pleasant.
  2. Oral Sedation: With oral sedation, a pill is administered, usually an hour before the procedure. Designed to relax the patient without inducing unconsciousness, oral sedation ranges from minimal to moderate, depending on the dosage prescribed.
  3. IV Sedation: Intravenous sedation involves administering sedative medication directly into the bloodstream, resulting in a deeper level of relaxation. IV sedation is typically used for more invasive or complex dental procedures, or cases of severe dental anxiety.
  4. General Anesthesia: Reserved for the most complex dental procedures or extreme cases of dental anxiety, general anesthesia renders the patient completely unconscious and unaware of the procedure taking place.

The Benefits of Sedation Dentistry

Enhance Your Dental Experience with Sedation

The primary goal of sedation dentistry is to alleviate dental anxiety, enabling patients to undergo the necessary dental treatments for optimal oral health. Additional benefits of sedation dentistry include:

  1. Maximum Comfort: Sedation dentistry minimizes any potential discomfort associated with dental procedures, ensuring the patient feels relaxed and at ease throughout their visit.
  2. Time Efficiency: Sedation allows for longer appointment durations, enabling multiple procedures to be performed in one session and saving valuable time for both the patient and dentist.
  3. Enhanced Cooperation: Sedation can greatly improve cooperation between the patient and dental team, particularly when treating individuals with special needs or severe dental anxiety.
  4. Quicker Recovery: As sedation dentistry enables patients to feel more relaxed during treatments, the recovery process may be smoother and faster.

Dispelling Myths and Misconceptions

Busting Common Sedation Dentistry Myths

Although sedation dentistry has been proven safe and effective, many misconceptions continue to circulate, potentially preventing individuals from seeking this life-changing solution to dental anxiety. By addressing these myths, we aim to provide clarity and reassurance for those considering sedation dentistry.

Myth 1: Sedation Dentistry Always Causes Unconsciousness

Fact: While some levels of sedation may cause unconsciousness, not all sedation methods induce complete unconsciousness. For instance, nitrous oxide and oral sedation promote a relaxed state without rendering the patient unconscious.

Myth 2: Sedation Dentistry is Risky

Fact: All sedation methods come with associated risks. However, when administered by trained professionals like the team at Spath Dentistry, sedation dentistry is considered to be safe and effective.

Myth 3: Sedation Dentistry is Only for Dental Phobia

Fact: While sedation dentistry is an ideal solution for dental phobia, it can also be beneficial for individuals with low pain tolerance, a sensitive gag reflex, or those undergoing lengthy or complex dental procedures.

Why Choose Spath Dentistry for Your Sedation Needs?

Personalized Dental Care in Newport Beach 

At Spath Dentistry, home of the best dentists in Newport Beach, we recognize that every patient is unique, with specific needs and individual preferences. They strive to provide personalized dental care that prioritizes patient comfort and well-being. Key reasons to choose Spath Dentistry for your sedation dentistry needs include:

  1. Patient-Centric Approach: Spath Dentistry’s unwavering commitment to patient satisfaction ensures that every visit is tailored to meet your individual needs, preferences, and concerns.
  2. Skilled and Experienced Team: The dental team at Spath Dentistry is highly qualified and capable of administering various sedation methods, ensuring safety, and effectiveness.
  3. A Holistic Dental Experience: Along with sedation dentistry, Spath Dentistry’s range of general and cosmetic dental services allows for comprehensive and convenient dental care – all in one relaxing, modern facility.

With sedation dentistry in Newport Beach at Spath Dentistry you can conquer dental anxiety and receive the general and cosmetic dental care you need in a stress-free, comfortable environment. Their caring, experienced team is dedicated to ensuring a positive dental experience, utilizing the most suitable sedation methods for your specific needs. Schedule a consultation with our best dentists in Newport Beach at Spath Dentistry today to learn more about sedation dentistry options and embrace a future of worry-free dental visits in a calming and supportive atmosphere.

Understanding & Eliminating Bad Breath with Spath Dentistry

Living with bad breath also known as halitosis isn’t just frustrating, it’s embarrassing and inconvenient. Millions of people suffer from halitosis and don’t fully grasp why it occurs and what to do if they have it. Occasional bad breath from dietary choices, dry mouth, or skipping out on your dental hygiene routine can be normal. Persistent halitosis despite best efforts can be indicative of an underlying dental condition that requires intervention from your local dentist. Dentists play a crucial role in identifying the causes of bad breath and creating a personalized treatment plan. Join us as we explore insights from our Spath Dentistry team on the causes of bad breath and effective treatment strategies.

Identifying the Causes of Bad Breath:

Our Newport Beach dentists are trained to recognize the various factors that can contribute to bad breath. During your dental examination, our dentists will assess your oral health and assess for the following potential causes:

  • Poor Oral Hygiene: One of the most common causes of bad breath is due to poor oral hygiene. It’s important to remember to brush twice daily and floss once to remove food from between your teeth and reduce plaque buildup. Poor oral hygiene can lead to tooth decay, gum disease, and malodorous breath.
  • Gum Disease: Gum disease, also called periodontal disease, is a bacterial infection of the gums. This is associated with red, irritated, swollen gums and loose or shifting teeth. Gum disease has a distinct odor that can be detected by your dentist in Newport Beach especially when accompanied by physical symptoms.
  • Dry Mouth: Reduced saliva production can lead to dry mouth making your mouth hospitable for bacteria to thrive and contribute to bad breath. To combat bacteria stay hydrated and drink plenty of water throughout the day.
  • Dietary Factors: Certain foods and beverages like garlic and coffee can leave behind strong odors that contribute to bad breath. Prevent these lingering odors by limiting odorous foods and beverages or try chewing on mint or parsley to neutralize the odors.
  • Underlying Dental Issues: Dental issues like tooth decay, oral infections, and poorly fitting dental appliances can contribute to bad breath. During a thorough dental exam examination our dentists can identify any underlying dental issues and recommend comprehensive treatment options.

Effective Treatment Strategies:

Conquering bad breath can be done independently at home through proper oral hygiene, staying hydrated, and more. If your bad breath persists despite your best efforts it’s time to seek dental help from Spath Dentistry in Newport Beach, California.

  • Improving Oral Hygiene: Improving your oral hygiene routine and incorporating new techniques like a water flosser or mouthwash can transform your dental health and help eliminate bad breath.
  • Treating Gum Disease: If you’re experiencing gum disease, your local dentist can perform professional dental cleanings and recommend periodontal therapy to remove plaque and tartar buildup and restore gum health.
  • Addressing Dry Mouth: It’s important to get to the root of your dry mouth issues whether it’s due to low salivary production or something more serious like diabetes. Once you’ve narrowed down the cause you can improve saliva production through drinking copious amounts of water, appropriate medication, and, other suggestions depending on the severity and cause.
  • Managing Dietary Factors: Being intentional with your diet and opting for foods and drinks that aren’t packed with strong odors can help you manage your bad breath and reduce it. If you’re opting for food like onions, garlic, and coffee bring sugar-free gum or mints to freshen your breath afterwards.
  • Addressing Underlying Dental Issues: Seeing your Newport Beach, California dentist regularly allows us to detect dental issues early on, treat them, and prevent future dental issues from arising. Being proactive with your dental health can reduce and even eliminate bad breath.

Attending regular dental exams at Spath Dentistry is essential to having optimal oral health. Regular dental exams allow our Orange County dentists to identify the causes of bad breath, create an effective treatment plan, and prevent further dental issues and ordor from occurring.  Enjoy improved oral health and get rid of bad breath through improving your oral hygiene, increasing your saliva production, and addressing any underlying dental issues with your local Newport Beach dentist. Reclaim your smile and quality of life when you schedule an appointment with us at Spath Dentistry for a thorough evaluation and customized treatment plan. Not local but want the same quality dentistry that we provide? Not to worry, enjoy our complimentary consultation, and get quality dentistry from the comfort of your home.

Oral Cancer Awareness Month

In dentistry, nothing is more feared than oral cancer. This terrible disease claims around 10,000 lives every year, and it’s often preventable! This April, join us on our oral cancer awareness month journey to help prevent this disease.

What is Oral Cancer?

In addition to tumors inside of the mouth, oral cancer also covers growths that occur in the sinuses, throat, and lips. Often, this cancer is diagnosed after it has started to spread. At this late stage of the disease, the five year survival rate is only 66%. Those who survive this stage are often left with terrible disfigurement from surgery, and they may be unable to eat or drink.

How Can a Dentist Near Me Help Prevent Oral Cancer?

Fortunately, there are ways to prevent oral cancer. If you have a history of the disease, be sure to attend regular dental checkups. Likewise, if you happen to have a history of HPV, you’ll want to ask a dentist if your strain has increased the likelihood of oral cancer. You can also cut habits that contribute to oral cancer’s development, such as:

  • Excessive alcohol consumption
  • Poor oral hygiene
  • Poor diet
  • Smoking and vaping

Dentists may not be able to entirely prevent oral cancer, but we wish we could! Fortunately, we can easily screen you for the disease. The earlier oral cancer is found, the better the outcome will be. For cases of oral cancer that are found in its early stage, the five year survival rate is 85%! Because the cancer has not had a chance to spread in these early stages, surgical intervention is often minimal, which means that visual and functional outcomes are often positive.

By visiting us at Spath Dentistry in Newport Beach, California you can consult with Dr. Spath expert on how to best improve your oral health. Proper brushing and flossing are essential parts of your routine, and we can show you how to perform these tasks properly. Regardless of if you ask for it, we’ll also screen you for signs of oral cancer whenever we perform a routine cleaning and checkup.

This April, schedule a dentist appointment! In addition to making your smile sparkle, our oral cancer scans just might end up saving your life.

Quality Sleep Starts with Quality Oral Health

Quality sleep is a novelty that we’re all after. It’s not uncommon to have a poor night’s sleep every now and then but having sleep disturbances consistently is cause for concern. What’s even more concerning is that your oral health could be at the root of the problem. Prioritizing your sleep and your teeth go hand in hand so taking the time to plan your next appointment with your local dentist is essential.

  • Bruxism (aka teeth grinding): Most people are unaware that they grind their teeth in their sleep. Especially if they sleep primarily alone. Unfortunately, teeth grinding can cause severe damage to teeth by wearing them down leading to cavity formation.
  • TMJ (temporomandibular joint syndrome): If you are experiencing clicking noises, tightness in your muscles along the jawline, or locking of the jaw you most likely have an issue with your jaw joint. It’s important to bring up your concerns with your dentist and create a plan of action.
  • Difficulty Breathing: If labored breathing, or multiple bouts of breathing complications interrupt your sleep it is time to raise your concerns to your general health practitioner as well as your dentist.
  • Dry Mouth: Are you waking up in the morning and feeling like your mouth is akin to the desert? Then your saliva is unable to do its job and break down the harmful bacteria that can easily decay your teeth.

Are you experiencing any of the symptoms above or a combination of them? It’s time to put your oral health and your sleep first. Check in with Spath Dentistry in NewPort Beach California to see how your teeth are affecting your sleep. During your visit the dentist can do a thorough examination of your teeth, gums, bite and determine if intervention is necessary. Intervention could be brush tips, flossing recommendations, and even a mouth guard depending on the severity. Don’t forget to see your dentist regularly for cleaning and dental exams to reduce the risk of sleep disturbance and ensure a better night’s sleep. Have more questions? Schedule your next appointment with Spath Dentistry to chat about them!

How to Choose the Right Toothpaste

One of the most common questions we get as dentists is what kind of toothpaste we recommend. The answer is that it depends on your current situation. If you’re somebody that gets many cavities, our recommendation is the CTx4 Gel by CariFree. This can come with or without fluoride and is available here in our office. You can also purchase it on Amazon! For everyone else, our recommendation would be the Sensodyne toothpaste. It tends to be nonabrasive and help with sensitivity. Particularly because our diets tend to be very acidic, which creates a lot of sensitivity within the teeth. Sensodyne is very effective for this!

What you really want to avoid is any toothpaste with whitening in it. Whitening toothpaste scrapes off the surface of the tooth over time, and while taking away the stain, also takes away tooth structure. However, you can still whiten your teeth in other ways, but the whitening toothpaste is not an effective or safe way of whitening the teeth.

If you have any questions, stop by and see us or give us a call! (949) 612-2356

COVID-19 Update

We hope you and your family in good health. Our community has been through a lot over the last few months, and all of us are looking forward to resuming our normal habits and routines. While many things have changed, one thing has remained the same: our commitment to your safety. Infection control has always been a top priority for our practice as you may have seen during your previous visits to our office. Our infection control processes are made so that when you receive care, it’s both safe and comfortable. We want to tell you a about the infection control procedures we follow in our practice to keep patients and staff safe. Our office follows infection control recommendations made by the American Dental Association (ADA), the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). We follow the activities of these agencies so that we are up-to-date on any new rulings or guidance that may be issued. We do this to make sure that our infection control procedures are current and adhere to each agencies’ recommendations. You may see some changes when it is time for your next appointment. We made these changes to help protect our patients and staff. For example for your safety when returning to our office the following protocols will be in effect.

  • All staff will be wearing appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) that is disposed of after each patient.
  • We have installed new state of the art HEPA air filters in each operatory. Each filter is designed for a space of 700 sq. ft. and each operatory is approximately 100 sq. ft.
  • We are lengthening the procedure times and the times between appointments to allow for double sterilization of each operatory after each procedure. You may notice a slight changing in your appointment time due to this.
  • Your temperature will be taken and documented upon arrival.
  • A quick health questionnaire will be requested from you upon arrival
  • Only one patient will be allowed in the reception area at a time to ensure social distancing.
  • We will be requesting patients wear a face mask when able to during their visit.
  • Each morning our staff will undergo a series of questions that would indicate any risk for COVID-19 in addition to having their temperature taken.
  • We will be working the landlord on cleaning all common areas in the building including the elevator, door handles, and bathrooms.
  • Patients over the age of 65 are advised to consider postponing any non-emergency or elective dental care.
  • As added safety measures we recommend that patients with known pre-existing medical conditions including obesity, diabetes, COPD, hypertension, cardio-vascular, or immune-suppressed individuals consider postponing any non-emergency or elective dental care.

In addition to the protocols above we will be implementing precautions to limit production of aerosols including utilization of rubber dam, Isolite suction, and temporarily eliminating the use of the dental hygiene air polisher and ultrasonic instrument.

We appreciate your cooperation and understanding while these safety protocols are in place. We feel confident that by following these protocols we can safely practice dentistry and provide you the best possible care. Thank you for being our patient. We value your trust and loyalty and look forward to welcoming back our patients, neighbors and friends to the office.

When to Consider Dentures & Today’s Technology

Transitioning to prosthetic teeth or dentures can be a cumbersome time that many don’t want to accept.. However, with breakthroughs in dental & denture technology, today’s denture offers a very realistic and very function option for teeth. Listen to Newport Beach Dentist Dr. Andrew Spath go over dentures options for his patients.

To learn more, ask a question, or anything else oabout the adavances in dentures, call our office and one our friendly staff will be there to greet you, (949) 612-2356 or reach us via our email!

Gum Disease: Causes, Detection, and Treatment of Periodontal Disease

Have you noticed blood in your sink after brushing your teeth lately? Bleeding while brushing can be one of the first warning signs of Periodontal Disease. In its earliest stages, it manifests as gingivitis and only infects your gums. However, if left untreated, the disease can travel below your gum line, infecting your bones, and evolving into Periodontal Disease.

The Prevalence of Periodontal Disease

Periodontal Disease, or more commonly known as gum disease, is a common infection that involves inflammation around the tooth. This inflammation damages the soft tissue and bone supporting the tooth. Without treatment, the alveolar bone around the teeth can be lost over time. The disease can also cause tooth loss and can increase the risk of stroke, heart attack, and other health complications.

According to the recent findings of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately half of Americans aged 30 and up have periodontal disease. These findings indicate that the disease affects upwards of 64.7 million Americans. A variety of risk factors can be an indicator if someone will experience the disease. Some can be attributed to inherited or genetic susceptibility, but others are caused by smoking, lack of adequate hygiene practices, age, diet, health history, and certain medications.

What Causes Periodontal Disease

Microorganisms, such as bacteria, can stick to both the surface of the tooth and in the pockets surrounding it. Once this bacteria has the opportunity to multiply, the immune system reacts, releasing toxins, and inflammation occurs. Bacterial plaque, which takes the form of a sticky, colorless membrane, can develop over the surface of the teeth and is often the most common cause of Periodontal Disease. If the plaque is not removed, it can eventually harden to form tartar.

Luckily, most cases of gum disease are completely preventable through good dental hygiene!

Treating Periodontal Disease

Maintaining good oral hygiene practices is one of the easiest and most effective ways to treat gum disease. Proper dental care involves brushing twice daily and flossing once daily.

A more in-depth treatment can include scaling, which involves a dental professional cleaning below the gumline. This can be done using hand tools or an ultrasonic device that breaks up plaque and tartar. This method of cleaning is recommended to be completed twice a year.

While these tips can be useful in preventing and treating the disease, it’s important to note that there is no replacement for 6-month check-ups with a dental professional.