What to Expect on a Routine Dental Exam

What’s The Difference Between Dental Implants And Bridges?

If you’re missing a single tooth in Riverside, you may be wondering if a dental implant is right for you, or if a dental bridge is a better option. Not sure what the difference is between these two treatments? Find out now in this blog from Riverside Tooth Co., and learn everything you need to know.  WHAT ARE DENTAL IMPLANTS? Dental implants are made of two parts; an implant and an implant-supported restoration. The implant is made of titanium and shaped like a screw, and it’s surgically implanted into your jaw and gum tissue to function as an artificial tooth root. The implant-supported restoration is typically a dental crown, which is attached to the implant to replace your missing tooth, restoring your bite and your appearance. Dental implants have a number of great advantages compared to dental bridges. They are long-lasting, with a lifespan of 30+ years with proper care.  They also look and feel completely natural, and do not require any specialized care. You can treat a single-tooth implant just like a natural tooth, and brush and floss it normally to keep it clean and healthy. However, there are some drawbacks. Implant surgery is invasive, and it takes about 3-6 months to heal from treatment, so this treatment takes much longer than a bridge.  You also must have a strong jaw bone to have a dental implant, so this may not be the best choice if your jaw bone has already weakened due to tooth loss. WHAT ARE DENTAL BRIDGES? Dental bridges are made of two dental crowns, which are attached to healthy teeth on either side of your missing tooth. A false tooth (pontic) is attached to these two crowns, and it “bridges” the gap where your missing tooth used to be, restoring your smile and your bite. Bridges have been used for decades, and are a time-tested method of replacing missing teeth. Compared to dental implants, bridges have some key advantages. The treatment is very fast, first of all. You can restore your smile with a bridge in 2 appointments over a period of 2-3 weeks, in most cases, compared to 3-6 months for an implant.  Bridges are also much less invasive, since there is no need to cut into your jaw bone or gums to place an implant. Bridges also have a very secure hold on your teeth compared to alternative treatments like partial dentures, since they’re permanently anchored using two crowns. As far as drawbacks go, a key disadvantage of bridges is that they require two of your healthy teeth to be trimmed. This process is not reversible, so these teeth will be permanently affected by the placement of a dental bridge.  Bridges also have a 5-15 year lifespan, so they do not usually last as long as implants. It’s also somewhat more difficult to clean and maintain a bridge, compared to an implant. WHICH TREATMENT IS RIGHT FOR ME? FIND OUT AT RIVERSIDE TOOTH CO!  Still not sure if a bridge or dental implant is right for you? The team at Riverside Tooth Co. is here to help. Dr. Kabir Sandhu can explain each option in further detail, discuss the pros and cons of bridges vs. implants, and make sure you choose the right procedure for your needs. Contact us now online or give us a call at (951) 435-8264 to get started.

How Invisalign Aligners Work to Transform Your Smile

Are you tired of hiding your smile because of crooked teeth? Well, say goodbye to traditional metal braces and hello to Invisalign aligners! These transparent plastic trays work hard behind the scenes to gradually shift your teeth into a beautiful, straight smile.  WHAT IS INVISALIGN? Invisalign is a clear aligner system that is used to straighten teeth. The aligners are made of a clear, flexible material that is virtually invisible when worn. Invisalign aligners are custom-made for each individual patient and are designed to gradually move teeth into the desired position. Treatment with Invisalign typically takes 9-18 months, depending on the severity of the case. BENEFITS OF INVISALIGN While there are many benefits that come with Invisalign aligners, the most notable is the fact that they are practically invisible. This means that you can continue to smile without feeling self-conscious about your appearance. Additionally, Invisalign aligners are much more comfortable to wear than traditional braces, and they allow you to eat and drink whatever you want without worrying about damage to your teeth. THE PROCESS OF GETTING INVISALIGN ALIGNERS If you’re considering Invisalign to help straighten your teeth, you may be wondering what the process entails. Getting Invisalign is surprisingly simple and straightforward. In fact, the entire process can be completed in just a few short weeks! Here’s a quick overview of how Invisalign works: * First, you’ll need to schedule a consultation with an orthodontist or dentist who offers Invisalign. During this visit, they will assess your teeth and decide if Invisalign is right for you. If it is, they will take impressions (molds) of your teeth which will be used to create your custom aligners. * Next, you’ll receive your aligners in the mail. Each set of aligners should be worn for about two weeks before being replaced with the next set in the series. As you progress through the treatment, your teeth will gradually shift into their new, straighter positions. * You’ll need to wear your aligners for 20-22 hours each day and remove them only when eating, brushing, and flossing. Be sure to clean your aligners thoroughly before putting them back in! That’s it! Once you finish wearing all of the aligners in the series (typically around 12-18 months), you’ll have straight teeth that you can feel confident about! SCHEDULING VISITS AND CHECKUPS FOR INVISALIGN TREATMENT When you begin Invisalign treatment, you will work with your dentist to schedule regular visits and checkups. Depending on the severity of your case, you may need to visit your orthodontist every 4-6 weeks. At each visit, your orthodontist will check the progress of your treatment and make any necessary adjustments to your aligners. They will also give you new aligners to continue your treatment. Checkups are important because they ensure that your treatment is on track and that you are comfortable with your aligners. For the best dental care tailored to your needs, visit Riverside Tooth Co at 6886 Indiana Ave Suite B, Riverside 92506, or call (951) 686-2565.

5 Benefits Of Single-Tooth Dental Implants – Restore Your Missing Teeth

Single-tooth implants are the most widely-used type of implant. They consist of a single dental implant that’s capped with a crown (false tooth) that looks and feels just like a natural tooth.  Wondering why dental implants are such a great way to replace your missing teeth in Riverside? Find out in this blog from Riverside Tooth Co. as we discuss 5 benefits of single-tooth dental implants.  1. SINGLE-TOOTH IMPLANTS LOOK & FEEL COMPLETELY NATURAL First and foremost, single-tooth implants look and feel totally natural and are indistinguishable from real teeth. This is because they use a two-part design that mimics the way your natural teeth function. The implant holds the crown in place, and is covered up and protected by the crown.  You can eat, speak, smile, and laugh with confidence, knowing that your implant will look just like a real tooth to everyone around you.  2. NO SPECIAL CARE IS REQUIRED FOR SINGLE-TOOTH IMPLANTS Once your implant has been placed, all you need to do is brush and floss regularly, and see Dr. Kabir Sandhu every six months for a consultation and teeth cleaning at Riverside Tooth Co. That’s it! No special care is required beyond this. You can treat your new implant just like a natural tooth.  3. YOUR IMPLANT HELPS PROTECT YOUR ORAL HEALTH Implants have the unique ability to stabilize and support the health of your jaw bone after tooth loss. If you don’t get an implant, your jaw bone will begin to deteriorate because it’s no longer stimulated by the biting and chewing forces that are transmitted through the root of your tooth into your jaw bone. But with an implant, the implant will transmit pressure into your jaw just like a natural tooth, keeping it healthy and strong. 4. SINGLE-TOOTH IMPLANTS WILL LAST FOR THE REST OF YOUR LIFE Dental implants have a great success rate. It’s likely that you will be able to keep your implant for the rest of your life. Compared to alternatives like dentures and bridges, single-tooth implants last much longer, making them a better long-term investment.  5. TEETH ADJACENT TO YOUR MISSING TOOTH DON’T NEED TO BE TRIMMED Dental bridges are one of the most common alternatives to single-tooth implants. The main problem with this treatment is that it requires two of your teeth to be trimmed down significantly so that crowns can be applied to them in order to hold the bridge in place. With dental implants, this is not necessary. You can preserve your healthy original teeth, and still benefit from a permanent, natural-looking tooth replacement.  SCHEDULE AN IMPLANT CONSULTATION AT RIVERSIDE TOOTH CO. TODAY! If you think you may be a good candidate for a single-tooth implant in Riverside, contact Riverside Tooth Co. online or give us a call at (951) 435-8264 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Sandhu. Together, you can discuss your options for restoring your smile, determine if you’re a good candidate for a single-tooth implant, and begin the implant placement process.

Anxiety-Relieving Techniques That Work!

Dental anxiety or phobia is one of the most common reasons for avoiding dental visits. This fear or anxiety can be caused due to many reasons. Sometimes, pain, a bad past experience, or the strong odor of the dental chemicals can trigger this dental fear. If you are someone with dental anxiety, here are a few tips to ease them. Discuss your fear with your dentist Tell your dentist about your anxiety or fears before the treatment begins. This will help them understand your situation and think of ways to help you feel more comfortable.  A dentist’s main goal is to restore your oral health, but your comfort and state of mind really matter as well. They will be able to help you relax through several techniques. Agree on a signal However, your dentist may have a hard time understanding you if you are too afraid to speak clearly or are unable to explain your issue properly. Agree on a signal that you can give to your dentist to stop the procedure at the first sign that you’re uncomfortable. For instance, you could clench your hands together or raise your hand to indicate that you’re in pain or if you feel uncomfortable. This is also helpful when you’re undergoing a lengthy procedure and you wish to take a break. Take a friend or family member with you for emotional support The presence of a loved one can not only calm you but also encourage and motivate you throughout your treatment. With their support, you will feel more at ease and confident in the dental office. They can also remind you to stay calm and relaxed throughout the treatment. It is also a good idea to have someone drive you to your appointment in case you experience any mild-to-moderate anxiety during the procedure. Bring distractions to occupy your mind during procedures Distractions can include listening to music through headphones or bringing a companion to your appointment to help you relax and focus on other things. Distractions are very helpful in keeping the mind off what is happening at the dental office.  Consider sedation dentistry Your dentist may also offer options for sedation dentistry if you want to feel relaxed and comfortable throughout your treatment session. Sedation dentistry can benefit people who have trouble getting numb and are anxious about their dental procedures. Sedation dentistry uses pills to relax you or nitrous oxide gas to calm you down. Talk to your dentist about how you can undergo this procedure and whether it is safe for you.  For the best dental care tailored to your needs, visit Riverside Tooth Co at 6886 Indiana Ave Suite B, Riverside 92506, or call (951) 686-2565.

How to Brush Your Teeth the Right Way

Welcome to our blog! Today, we're diving deep into the world of oral hygiene and discussing a topic that is often overlooked but incredibly important - how to brush your teeth the right way. We all know that brushing our teeth is crucial for maintaining good dental health, but are we doing it correctly? In this article, we will guide you through the proper steps of brushing your teeth and share some tips on how to make this daily task more effective. So grab your toothbrush, and let's get started on the path to a healthier smile! THE IMPORTANCE OF PROPER TEETH BRUSHING Proper teeth brushing is not just about having a fresh breath and a sparkling smile. It goes much deeper than that. It's about maintaining good oral hygiene, preventing dental problems, and safeguarding your overall health. When we brush our teeth correctly, we remove plaque - the sticky film of bacteria that forms on our teeth throughout the day. If left unattended, this plaque can lead to gum disease, tooth decay, bad breath, and even more serious health issues like heart disease or diabetes. Moreover, proper brushing helps to stimulate the gums and promote blood circulation in the mouth. This contributes to healthier gums and reduces the risk of developing gum diseases such as gingivitis or periodontitis. Regularly cleaning your teeth also helps prevent staining from foods and drinks like coffee or wine. By removing surface stains through proper brushing techniques, you can keep your smile bright and confident. In addition to these benefits for oral health, taking care of your teeth properly can have positive effects on other aspects of your life, too. When you have healthy teeth and gums, you're more likely to feel confident when talking with others or smiling in photos. So remember: proper teeth brushing isn't just a mundane task; it's an essential part of self-care that positively impacts both your oral health and overall well-being! STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE TO BRUSHING YOUR TEETH Step 1: Choose the right toothbrush The first step to an effective teeth brushing routine is selecting the right toothbrush. Look for a brush with soft bristles that won't harm your gums or enamel. You can choose between manual and electric options, whatever feels most comfortable for you. Step 2: Apply toothpaste Squeeze a pea-sized amount of toothpaste onto your brush. Fluoride-based toothpastes are recommended as they help prevent cavities and strengthen enamel. However, there are also natural alternatives available if that's more your preference. Step 3: Brush at a 45-degree angle Hold your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle against your gumline. This helps reach those hard-to-reach areas where plaque tends to build up. Gently move the brush in circular motions, covering each individual tooth. Step 4: Don't forget about the tongue! Brushing your teeth isn't just about getting rid of food particles and plaque; it's also important to clean your tongue! Use gentle strokes from back to front to remove bacteria and freshen your breath. Step 5: Rinse thoroughly Once you're done brushing, rinse your mouth thoroughly with water or mouthwash to remove any remaining debris or residue from brushing. Remember, it's recommended to brush twice a day - once in the morning after breakfast and once before bed. By following these simple steps, you'll be well on your way to maintaining optimal oral hygiene! HOW OFTEN SHOULD YOU BRUSH YOUR TEETH? One of the most commonly asked questions when it comes to oral hygiene is how often one should brush their teeth. The answer may surprise you, as it's not just a simple once-a-day routine. In fact, dentists recommend brushing your teeth at least twice a day, morning and night. Brushing in the morning helps remove any plaque or bacteria that has built up overnight while you sleep. It also freshens your breath and prepares your mouth for the day ahead. On the other hand, brushing before bed is crucial because it removes food particles and debris throughout the day, preventing them from causing cavities or gum disease while you sleep. However, simply brushing twice a day isn't always enough. Dentists suggest spending at least two minutes each time you brush to ensure all surfaces of your teeth are properly cleaned. This means focusing on both the front and back of each tooth as well as along the gumline. It's also important to choose a good toothbrush with soft bristles that won't damage your gums or enamel. Replace your toothbrush every three months or sooner if it becomes frayed or worn out. In addition to regular brushing, don't forget about flossing! Flossing reaches areas between teeth where brushes can't reach and is an essential part of maintaining healthy gums. Remember, consistency is key when it comes to oral care. By establishing a daily routine that includes proper brushing techniques and regular dental check-ups, you'll be well on your way to achieving optimal oral health! CONCLUSION Maintaining proper oral hygiene is crucial for overall health and well-being. Brushing your teeth the right way is an essential part of this routine. By following the step-by-step guide provided, you can ensure that you are effectively removing plaque and keeping your teeth and gums healthy. So why wait? Start implementing these techniques today and enjoy a healthier smile tomorrow! Remember, a little effort each day goes a long way in preserving those pearly whites.