Dangers of Dipping Tobacco on Oral Health

By Arthur Kezian

Smoking is dangerous for your dental health. Chewing tobacco can be even more dangerous to your oral health. There are many instances of smoking addicts transitioning themselves to healthier less nicotine system of chewing, dipping and snubbing. The sooner you stop snubbing and dipping the tobacco, the better oral health you will have. Dr. Kezian dentist and staffs explains a range of consequence that people using tobacco can have in the future.

Dangers within Smokeless Tobacco

A person should first understand the fact that tobacco is comprised of harmful carcinogens and toxins irrespective of whether it is smoked or chewed. Results are the same. Chewing tobacco can lead the person to have a range of illnesses in the future. This might range from oral cancer which is the worst type of cancer a person can have on their teeth and mouth to gum disease which is another popular condition caused because of smoking and chewing.

Oral Cancer

Oral Cancer is the worst form of disease that is caused by the carcinogens present in tobacco.

·         The likelihood of oral cancer can be detected through oral cancer screenings which is commonly done by most of the dental offices. The visible form of this disease appears in the form of sore on the mouth that will bleed and would not heal with respect to time.
·         The cancer would be formed on any area depending up on the area where the tobacco has been used excessively. The most usual portions in the mouth where the cancer is usually found to be affected include gums, cheek, tongue or throat.

Leukoplakia is a precancerous condition which can be treated and corrected. It is usually caused by the juices of tobacco and is visible in the form of white spots present in gums, cheeks and tongues. It is good to immediately schedule an appointment with Dr. Kezian facility in Los Angeles for the diagnosis of Leukoplakia.

Gum Disease

Gum Disease is another disease caused through chewing tobacco. It is especially caused through sugars from tobacco which is capable of feeding harmful bacteria that produces tooth decaying acids. This tooth decaying acids will then cause cavities, mouth sores and finally gum disease. For a regular user of smokeless tobacco, possibility is high for them to get affected with gum recession. It usually occurs when the tobacco comes in continuous contact with the gum tissues.

·         Gum Disease is also popularly known as Periodontal disease and if untreated would lead to dental complications such as sensitive teeth, loose teeth, cavities and even teeth loss. The first form of gum disease is known as Gingivitis in which the person can witness gum bleeding at the time of brushing. Other symptoms include deep purple or red gum tissue. The gums are also seen appearing as swollen and sensitive most of the times.
·         The periodontal diseases play a major role in destroying the connective tissues and thereby causing the teeth in becoming loose on their sockets as the pockets goes deeper.
·         The most common form of treatments for the gum disease includes periodontal care, scaling and root planning. The periodontal pockets are usually cleaned by the dentist in removing the gingival infection and this process is known as scaling or deep cleaning.

Cosmetic effects

Chewing smokeless tobacco can have cosmetic implications on the personality of the person suffering from it.

·         The most important among them includes change in the colour of teeth that can tarnish their appearance during social interactions.
·         In addition to it, Bad Breath is another cosmetic problem caused from  excessive tobacco usage.

These symptoms can be prevented to a greater extent by having regular dental check up and thereby maintaining proper dental hygiene by visiting Dr. Kezian and staff in Los Angeles.

Dr. Arthur A. Kezian DDS 443 N. Larchmont Blvd Los Angeles, CA 90004 (323) 467-2777 

-N.S.

Enamel Erosion: What Is It And How To Prevent It?

By Arthur Kezian

For people who are fans of drinking lemonade, soda water or other energy drinks, Dr. Kezian has some good advice for you. These drinks may seem refreshing for the hot summer, but they surely do not leave a good impact on your teeth. These drinks are the main reason of Enamel Erosion, a dental health problem that can invite other health problems too. So they are not good for your oral hygiene.

Enamel is the hard outer layer of teeth that we can see or touch. The main objective of this layer is to protect the inner sensitive layer of dentin from harmful bacteria. Enamel is transparent, so the color of teeth that we see is not because of enamel, but actually it is because of sensitive inner part. Drinking of soda water, lemonade or energy drinks causes enamel of the teeth to erode. If this layer is damaged or lost, then chances are pretty higher that you will get infected with other problems too. For example: cavities, tooth decay, gum disease and many other dental problems. This problem is commonly seen in youth, because usage of all the above listed drinks is especially common among them.

What Causes Enamel Erosion?

The most common reason of enamel erosion is usage of acid beverages, but it is not the only reason. There are other reasons too, which include:

·         Dry Mouth or low saliva production

·         Excessive input of starch or sugar in diet

·         Acid reflux disease

·         Gastrointestinal problems

·         Environmental Factors

Some other reasons also exist, but they are not that much common. For example: Medications and Genetics.

What Are Environmental Causes Of Enamel Erosion?

Environmental causes of enamel erosion are given below:

·         Friction

·         Tear and Wear

·         Corrosion

·         Stress

Symptoms Of Enamel Erosion:

Symptoms may vary, but some common symptoms include:

·         Sensitivity against sweets, hot or cold foods

·         Discoloration in yellow color

·         Cracks and chips

·         Cupping on the surface of teeth

Can Plaque Cause Enamel Erosion?

·         A single mistake in dental care invites so many problems at one. So the answer to this question is, yes.

·         This happens because sometimes bacteria present in plaque changes food starches into acids.

·         When this happens, acids start eating the healthy minerals of enamel. This causes enamel to become pitted.

·         When erosion grows, pits become larger in size.

Protection Method 1: Rinse With Water:

·         Always remember, brushing your teeth just after the consumption of acid beverages will not give you relief. Instead, it will leave a reverse effect and will spread the acid around tooth surface. For good oral care, first rinse your mouth well with water. This will wash away the acid present on your teeth.

·         Brush your teeth after 2 hours of consumption. Sooner than that will not help you.

·         Chewing sugar free gum is also a helpful thing because it increases the saliva production which will help in washing away the acid.

Protection Method 2: Make Use Of A Straw:

·         Using a straw while drinking acid beverages will also help a lot. It will nearly bypass the entire problem because the acid will not touch your teeth.

·         Also avoid swishing of beverage in your mouth.

Protection Method 3: Use Fluoride:

·         Fluoride helps in strengthening the enamel. It also helps a lot in recovering the enamel you have lost because of erosion.

·         There are several ways of using fluoride for your teeth. For example, you can use fluoride toothpaste or you can also take a fluoride treatment Dr. Kezian and staff.

Enamel Erosion can become a severe situation that will harm your teeth and overall health for a long time. For avoiding enamel erosion, ensure that you follow a good oral hygiene and avoid usage of acid beverages. And if you can visit Dr. Kezian for regular checkups after every 6 months, then it will be a lot better.

Dr. Arthur A. Kezian DDS 443 N. Larchmont Blvd Los Angeles, CA 90004 (323) 467-2777 

-N.S.

Dental Visits Can Prevent Oral Cancer

By Arthur Kezian

Annual dental visits are not just for checking the health of your teeth and gums but are used as early prevention for diagnosing oral cancer. If it is diagnosed or caught early on, your chances of survival are much better. Dr. Kezian suggests that every individual gets at least two Dentist appointments yearly, unless otherwise noted. Although going to the Dentist can seem annoying or even scary, you will be thankful that you decided to go instead of delay or postpone your annual cleaning. If you have any family history of cancer of the mouth; you will want to go to the Dentist possibly a few more times yearly than the average person. If you have questions or concerns, make sure that you ask your Dentist about the importance of Dental visits.

What Causes This Cancer?

·         Your risks factors for getting oral cancer rise rapidly if you smoke, chew tobacco, or have a family history of it.

·         It is caused by using these substances in excess which can cause the oral cavity of your mouth to develop this cancer.

Symptoms:

·         The following symptoms are possible signs of developing oral cancer

·         Splotchy lesions that are in your mouth; ulcers that have not healed up after a few days; changes in your voice or your ease of biting/chewing; hoarseness that does not go away; and lumps that develop in your neck and throat

·         If you have any of these symptoms, you should visit Dr. Kezian and staff immediately so they can assess your health and the diagnose the possibility of cancer.

Preventing Cancer:

·         You can prevent this cancer by the following means -

·         Scheduling annual dental visits which will keep you in the constant care of a trained and professional Dentist who can catch any symptoms early on;

·         Reducing your in-take of alcohol or tobacco – studies have shown that too much alcohol and tobacco can cause oral cancer

·         Choosing not to go to tanning beds/use fake tanner on your lips will drastically reduce your probability of getting this cancer due to the chemicals that are found in them;

·         And, most importantly, if somebody in your genetic line has had oral cancer, make sure to stay in communication with a Dentist that you trust so that you will not be affected by and that it is caught sooner than later.

If you choose to keep a close eye on your oral health, you should first begin with an annual dental checkup as this is the number one sure fire way to prevent or slow down the spread of this cancer. When you go to the Dentist, talk to them about your concerns about this cancer and make sure that he or she know what they are talking about when they answer you. If they do not, find a new Dentist – one who is an expert in diagnosing it. Your dental and physical health depends upon having a good, trust-worthy Dentist who understands and knows about this cancer.

So, if you have a genetic history of family members who have had cancer of the mouth; you should be extremely vigilant in stopping any further influences that could cause this cancer. You should choose to stop going to tanning beds and you should limit your in-take of alcohol and tobacco. Cancer is never something to mess around with and you must know the symptoms of it – oral cancer has symptoms of white lesions that do not go away in your mouth; lumps on your throat and neck; hoarseness in your voice; and voice or bite changes. If you experience these, visit Dr. Kezian immediately to get annual dental checkups.

Dr. Arthur A. Kezian DDS 443 N. Larchmont Blvd Los Angeles, CA 90004 (323) 467-2777 

-N.S.

Three Reasons to Choose Dental Implants

By Arthur Kezian

In the history of implant dentistry, the use of dental implants has been increasingly proved to be the best restorative option for missing teeth. They play a vital role in improving the appearance, health, and function of the smile. It can be hard to accept the fact that a person lost their teeth due to tooth decay or advanced gum disease. However, the oral health of a person mostly depends on replacement of the damaged tooth as early as possible. Dr. Kezian is a well known dental implant dentist in Los Angeles who deals with remedies for missing teeth through dental implantation techniques. If the empty space is left in the mouth, it can have adverse consequences in the future. These consequences include an increased rate of diseases in the mouth, a misaligned bite along with painful TMJ dysfunction, and also lower self-esteem.

Dental Implants which Function as Natural Teeth

Unlike dentures and bridges that replace only the part of the tooth that is visible, an implant specialist will ensure restoration of the support structure that is present under the gum line in the patient’s mouth.

·         It is designed in such a way that it replaces both tooth root and crown.
·         It provides a high level of stability without any need for readjustment.
·         During the first phase, the implant is placed into the jawbone by an experienced oral surgeon, thus, the jawbone is also supported.
·         An implant dentist will then cap the implant. This will be done during the second phase.

Dental Implant Influence Appearance

Missing teeth may look cute when it comes to little kids, however, in adults, missing teeth can make them look aged and unhealthy.

·         This can seriously tarnish one’s personality. Through dental implants, a person can regain their confidence. When your teeth are healthy and aligned, you tend to smile more. This in turn can reduce the level of stress and symptoms of depression at a faster pace.

Dental Implants Influence Health

Implant dentistry is the only way in which a person can ensure good jaw health unlike dentures and bridges which only take care of the pain associated with dental drift.

·         Even though dental implants can prove to be expensive compared to traditional dentures, they can ensure the teeth and jaw remain healthier in the long term.
·         When a tooth is lost, the underlying bone will be the most prone for deterioration. A dental implant is usually implemented towards the jawbone, thereby taking the position of the missing tooth root. This eventually leads to bone tissues remaining healthier.
·         Dental implants are also the least prone to any kind of decay as long as proper oral care is provided for the teeth.

For a single missing tooth, one implant along with a crown can replace it. For the replacement of several teeth, supported implant bridges are usually provided. For the replacement of full missing teeth, a full implant denture would be used. If you have missing teeth, don’t wait any longer, make a call and change your life.

Dr. Arthur A. Kezian DDS 443 N. Larchmont Blvd Los Angeles, CA 90004 (323) 467-2777 

-N.S.

How Much Toothpaste Is Important For Dental Health?

By Arthur Kezian

Brushing once in the morning is not the only thing that keeps your teeth and gums away from cavities and other mouth diseases. Every part of the human body needs proper care and treatment to keep it healthy and at less risk of permanent disease. Dental health cannot be ignored at any cost. Destroyed teeth ruin the smile of your face and personality. Dr Kezian focuses on the health of the teeth. He regularly attends seminars on dental care, and keeps himself up to date on the newest dental procedures and techniques.

Is Using Your Toothbrush Enough?

A toothbrush, regardless of how expensive it is can clean only so much of your teeth. The brush does not reach the inner lining of the teeth, so food particles stay inside these crevices and causes bacteria and other diseases. Just brushing your teeth is not enough. You put your dental health at risk this way.

How Dental Health Can Be Assured?

Tooth brushing twice a day in mandatory by using a good tooth paste that has cavity control ingredients. By using a good mouth wash once a day, you kill the bacteria inside your mouth. With that being said, these are only home remedies. If your teeth are turning yellow in color, go and see your doctor for a teeth whitening treatment. One visit every 4-6 months to the dental office for a complete check up is required to assure the dental health of your teeth. Dr. Kezian puts emphasis on his patients coming in for a 4-6 month dental health examination so that their teeth don’t expire at an early age.

Although, dental treatments are expensive - One visit to the dental office every 4-6 months is not very costly. If you take care of your teeth on a regular basis, you minimize the chance of bacteria growing and attacking your teeth and reduce your risk.

How to Get Rid Of Dirty Teeth?

If you experience mouth odor and have dark yellow stained teeth, then your teeth are at high risk of oral diseases. You cannot cure these kinds of oral diseases at home, according to Dr. Kezian. The lifespan of your teeth are shrinking, making it important for you to make an appointment with Dr. Kezian so he can help you get back on track and improve your over-all dental health and prevent the progression of disease.

Dr. Arthur A. Kezian DDS 443 N. Larchmont Blvd Los Angeles, CA 90004 (323) 467-2777 

-N.S.

Porcelain Crowns: Are They Really Necessary?

By Arthur Kezian

You have already scheduled your appointment for the root canal to take care of those pesky cavities, now you need to decide whether or not you need porcelain crowns. Often dental insurance does not cover this more expensive procedure so before you pay extra you need to learn about the benefits and pluses over less costly alternatives.

Dr. Kezian understands that a well educated patient is a happier patient.  Here are the basics to get you started:

What are dental crowns anyway?

Once you have a tooth cavity severe enough to damage the dental pulp or core of the tooth, conservative management is no longer a good option.  Treatment choices include tooth extraction or a root canal. Generally people want to hold onto their own natural teeth, so choose the root canal option.  Your dentist will essentially scrape out the debris within the cavity.  This weakens your tooth, making it more prone to fracture or breaking.  Here’s where a dental crown comes in!

A dental crown is like a hat or cap that is placed over the tooth.  This protects the tooth’s shape and strength.  To keep the crown in place, a cement is used.  Importantly, the crown is fully visible.  The choices for crown material are metal or porcelain.  Metal is cheaper but not as cosmetically pleasing! Metal crowns are sturdier but best reserved for out of sight teeth like molars.

Porcelain, while more expensive, is essentially the color of enamel and therefore a more aesthetically pleasing.  Porcelain crowns are also a good choice for those who suffer from metal allergies.

What problems can occur with crowns?

You may be asking yourself, what can go wrong?  Not much if you are in the good hands of an experienced dentist.  Sometimes a person with a newly crowned tooth, may experience heat or cold sensitivity.  Switching to a toothpaste specially formulated for sensitive teeth will likely do the trick.  If the cement used wears off, the crown can fall off.  One drawback of porcelain crowns over metal crowns is that porcelain as a material is more prone to chipping.  If the chip is small a sealant similar in color to the crown can patch it.

How long will my new crown last?

It’s tough to predict how long a crown will last.  On average, expect your crowns to last anywhere between five to fifteen years.  Factors that influence the longevity of dental crowns are similar to those that put you at risk for dental caries in the first place such as oral hygiene, diet, smoking and whether or not you grind your teeth.

How to I take care of my crown?

Crowns really do not require special care in specif.  Underneath the crown is still a living tooth that is at risk from further cavity formation and gum disease.  So basically, ramping up your oral hygiene practices is the sure-fire way to protecting your new porcelain crowns.

Dr. Kezian will gladly meet with you to discuss dental crown options and treatment choices that are best for your specific needs.

Dr. Arthur A. Kezian DDS 443 N. Larchmont Blvd Los Angeles, CA 90004 (323) 467-2777 

-N.S.

Dental Hygiene For Dentures Is a Must!

By Arthur Kezian

Dentures are not always a bad thing. Sometimes they’re a better alternative to nothing. As we all know, bad teeth not only make people sick, but also cause a variety of problems.

Although they are not your natural teeth, it’s important to take care of the over all hygiene of your dentures. If you look closely, you will see that dentures need as much care as natural teeth. Dental health is very important and plays a key part in your overall personality and look. Therefore, Dr Kezian and staff are here to guide you on various aspects related to dental health.

How to take care of Dentures:

Dentures do not last according to the price people pay for them – A key factor that plays into the longevity of your dentures is home-care. The first to caring for your dentures is taking them off before going to sleep at nights and placing them in the clean cold water. The water will clean them and they would stay away from all kind of diseases.

There are a variety of great denture baths available in the market to make this first step possible. And if you cannot find these bathes, you can also use a bowl or a glass of cold water. Moreover, when you clean them, you must not put any pressure on them. But you have to make sure that every food particle is perfectly removed. If you don’t have the proper cleaning solutions, use toothpaste and place them in clean water for some time.

Advantages of removing Dentures:

As discussed earlier, you should remove your dentures before going to bed. It not only allows your mouth to rest but it also allows the tissues of the mouth to recuperate. It also removes the strain of holding. All these factors help to keep people away from all kinds of fungal problems.

After you fit the dentures, Dr Kezian and staff also recommend you use the denture glue as well. It will help your teeth to stay in mouth and with this; you can feel free from any kind of embarrassment. You must have to keep everything in a proper shape as dental hygiene is very important and plays a great part, at least in your smile.

Dr. Arthur A. Kezian DDS 443 N. Larchmont Blvd Los Angeles, CA 90004 (323) 467-2777 

-N.S.

How to Find the Right Cosmetic Dentist For You

By Arthur Kezian

Are you looking for the best cosmetic dentist? How do you pick the right one?  This can be an overwhelming process, especially since most dentists claim to be “experts” in the field of cosmetic dentistry.  You need to arm yourself with knowledge and the right questions to ask in order to help choose the best dentist for you.  Don’t be afraid to go after the attractive smile you’ve always dreamed of having.

Dr. Kezian is very knowledgeable in the field of cosmetic dentistry.  Below are some guidelines and tips for you to use as you explore your options.

Things To Know When Choosing A Cosmetic Dentist

Many dentists predominantly do routine dentistry and only a few actually do cosmetic work.  Find out from a dentist, what percentage of their practice involves solely in cosmetic dentistry such as porcelain veneers or other cosmetic techniques.  Don’t be afraid to ask for specific percentages or annual case volumes.  Take charge!

Most dentists like pictures and take a lot of them - be curious and ask to see them!  Most cosmetic dentists have albums of before and after pictures that you can look through.  If you don’t see photos, go somewhere else!

What About A Dentist’s Credentials?

Unfortunately most dental schools don’t spend a lot of time on cosmetic dentistry.  There are many post-graduate programs that offer expert training specifically for cosmetic dentistry.  In addition, there are many membership associations that a cosmetic dentist will affiliate with to keep up with the most up to date technology and techniques.  This information should be easily obtainable and visible in the dentist’s office.

Many cosmetic dentists will happily provide you with a list of former patients you can call.  Be ready to ask questions and address any concerns that you may have. 

Get A Free Consultation

Make an appointment.  Most cosmetic dentists will provide you with a free consultation.  This is the time to ask all the hard questions and get the facts!  Look around the office.  Is it clean and well kept?  Does the technology seem up to date?  Does the dentist take the time to really talk and reassure you?   Trust your instincts!  A good and well-trained cosmetic dentist will have many treatment options for you.  Based on your specific needs and wants, together you will be able to select the right treatment plan. 

With these tools you should be able to select an honest and capable dentist.

Dr. Kezian is a cosmetic dentist with years of experience.  Make an appointment today for a free consultation.

Dr. Arthur A. Kezian DDS 443 N. Larchmont Blvd Los Angeles, CA 90004 (323) 467-2777 

-N.S.

Now That You’ve Quit Smoking, Get That Winning Smile Back!

By Arthur Kezian

Congratulations on quitting smoking! By having taken that first and essential step, you’re on your way to getting both your general and oral health back on track!  Many former smokers notice that even after discontinuing the use of tobacco products, the after effects caused by years of smoking have left their teeth yellow and discolored.  They yearn for a white and glistening smile! Dr. Kezian and staff can create a whitening program tailored specifically for you to restore your teeth’s natural color.

Teeth whitening is a type of dental work that traditionally falls into the category of cosmetic dentistry - This just refers to any dental work that improves the appearance of a person’s teeth or gums, not necessarily a change in the function.  Many dentists can easily perform these tasks as well as other types of dental work.

Although teeth whitening or bleaching products exist over the counter, it is generally recommended that a dentist oversee or supervise the lightening of discolored teeth. This is especially true if the teeth have fillings or other restorations because this can lead to uneven whitening patterns. Before starting the whitening procedure though, it is best to get a dental cleaning first.

How does whitening work?

Teeth whitening products contain a bleaching agent.  Over the counter and some dental supervised at-home products have a bleaching agent that is a lower strength, equivalent to about 3% hydrogen peroxide. In-office bleaching agents are much stronger, with hydrogen peroxide in the concentration of 15-40%. 

In-office bleaching is a safe and quick method to achieving whiter teeth.  A whitening product is applied directly onto the tooth’s surface and kept securely in place with a custom made tray that fits your teeth exactly. This is in contrast to over-the-counter products that use a mouth tray that’s generally one-size-fits-all. Dr. Kezian can also make a custom mouth tray for dental supervised at-home treatments.  Depending on the degree of tooth discoloration, more treatments may be necessary to achieve the level of whiteness you desire.

How Long Do Teeth Whitening Effects Last?

Unfortunately, teeth whitening is not a permanent solution to keeping a white smile.  Typically, the whiteness lasts for about a year.  If you consume foods and drinks that cause stain, whitening may last for a shorter period of time. Along with whitening, you should also keep track of your dental cleanings.

What are the benefits to teeth whitening in the office?

A dentist will perform an oral exam, noting the degree of discoloration and the presence of restorations.  A more tailored and individual treatment plan can be designed specific for your needs.  In addition, additional protective measures such as a rubber shield to protect the gums can be provided in the office.

Now that you have taken charge of your life by quitting smoking, you are on the road to improving your oral health.

Please come schedule a consultation with Dr. Kezian to determine what teeth whitening plan is best for you!

Dr. Arthur A. Kezian DDS 443 N. Larchmont Blvd Los Angeles, CA 90004 (323) 467-2777 

-N.S.

Emergency Dental Hours for Our Patients

By Arthur Kezian

Do you need an emergency dentist with flexible hours? Do you have tooth pain but are hoping it will go away on its own?  Everybody has a hectic life.  There never seems to be enough time during the week to get it all done!  If your schedule makes finding a dental appointment during the normal work week feel like an impossible task, search for an emergency dentist or one who works on Saturdays.

Dr. Arthur A. Kezian knows that keeping an appointment from Monday-Friday within the hours of 9-5 is a challenge for the average person, and dental accidents can happen at any time too.  Dr. Kezian and his staff provide patients with superb dental care, and take emergency appointments. 

Flexible Hours

We have flexible Saturday scheduling in order to cater to your busy life.  We offer dedicated, excellent and reliable service.  In addition, we are available in the case of a dental emergency. 

Don’t Wait Too Long

Just like you take care of your general health and well being, your dental health needs tending too!  Many people put off routine dental check-ups due to busy and overscheduled lives.  Remember, preventive dentistry is better and essentially less time consuming than if you wait too long.  Semi-annual check-ups can identify early evidence of tooth decay and remove plaque and tartar.  In addition, dental cavities caught early are more likely to be taken care of by conservative treatments such as sealants. 

If you are suffering from tooth pain or irritated gums, don’t delay in making an appointment. An emergency dentist is available for urgent appointments as well.

Dental Emergency

What constitutes the need to see an emergency dentist?  A traumatic accident resulting in the loss of a tooth comes to mind.  What do you do if this happens?  Find a dentist who takes emergency calls during any time of the day. In cases that don’t require a trip to the emergency room but need to be taken care of quickly, such as a lost crown or a fractured tooth, Dr. Kezian and his staff can see you right away.

So remember, Dr. Kezian is available to meet all your dental needs, routine and emergent. 

When life takes a turn and you need an emergency dentist, you know who to call!

Dr. Arthur A. Kezian DDS DDS 443 N. Larchmont Blvd Los Angeles, CA 90004 (323) 467-2777 

-N.S.

Bruxism: What You Need To Know

By Arthur Kezian

Are you suffering from TMJ pain with each and every bite?  Do you have frequent headaches?  Are you having trouble sleeping or feeling excessive stress in your life?  All of these symptoms may the result of strain on your TMJ joint.   Bruxism, which is a medical term for excess teeth clenching and grinding, is a relatively common condition that can cause these symptoms.  Although this is not a dangerous disorder, it can make life significantly uncomfortable and may lead to permanent tooth damage.

If you are experiencing TMJ pain, Dr. Kezian can evaluate you to identify if there is an underlying dental problem affecting your joint.  Dr. Kezian and staff can create a treatment plan for you that alleviate your symptoms. 

What Is TMJ Pain?

If you open your mouth all the way and then shut it again, you have used your temporo-mandibular joint or TMJ joint.  It consists of a disc of cartilage that sits between the temporal bone of the skull and the lower jaw bone or mandible.  If the cartilaginous disc is displaced, this can place pressure on the joint or nearby sensory nerves.  This may cause pain.  In addition, if the surrounding muscles spasm, this can also cause discomfort.  Symptoms that suggest TMJ related pain include temple, cheek or ear pain, sore jaw muscles, locking of your jaw or sharp pain when you chew or swallow. 

What Causes TMJ Pain?

There are many ways to damage the TMJ joint.  Trauma or excess gum chewing can do this.  One of the most common causes is teeth clenching or bruxism.  Bruxism is often related to stress and can be exacerbated by an abnormal bite or missing teeth.  Patients often don’t realize they are clenching or holding their teeth tightly together.  Also, teeth grinding or sliding of the teeth against each other, often occurs while the patient is sleeping and unaware.  Long term grinding may permanently damage your teeth.

How Do You Treat TMJ Pain?

TMJ Pain can be treated initially by lifestyle changes such as eliminating gum chewing, eating soft foods and applying heat to the surrounding muscles two times a day.  If TMJ pain is due to bruxism, reducing stress can relieve some symptoms.  Importantly, because bruxism can lead to teeth damage, seeking a consultation with a dentist is imperative.  Treatment options include a mouth guard or splint to be worn at night to prevent grinding and ultimately damage to the teeth.  There are different types of mouth guards available. If you suffer from TMJ pain, you can schedule a consultation with Dr. Kezian.

Dr. Arthur A. Kezian DDS DDS 443 N. Larchmont Blvd Los Angeles, CA 90004 (323) 467-2777 

-N.S.

Dental Hygiene: A Brief History

By Arthur Kezian

Every day we use modern dental products such as an electric toothbrush and nylon floss to maintain proper dental hygiene. Thankfully, the dental techniques used in modern day dentistry have come a long way. 

Dentistry is a field that has changed quite a bit throughout history.  Dr. Kezian uses the latest dental techniques to provide excellent dental care.  Let’s examine the history of dental hygiene to see how far we have come.

Origin Of The Toothbrush

Many people want to know the origin of the toothbrush.  The first evidence of a toothbrush was from 3000 BC.  A stick with a frayed end was found among the Egyptian pyramids.  A more widespread early toothbrush was from the Chinese.  Instead of a plastic handle, they used bamboo, a tough plant ubiquitous to China.  They used bristles from the hair of wild boars, especially the tough ones from the back of the neck.  Due to the toughness of boar hair, some people switched to softer horse hair which caused less irritation to the gums.  Nylon, created by DuPont Laboratories, was introduced in 1938.  Shortly thereafter, plastic handles were invented and the modern toothbrush was born.

The Beginnings Of the Toothpaste

Toothpaste goes hand in hand with toothbrushes as a key component of dental hygiene.  Again, the Egyptians were the first to create toothpaste like powder that when combined with saliva cleaned and whitened the teeth.  There was evidence that dental toothpaste was in use since 500 B.C in India and China.  Believe it or not but in the 19^th century, charcoal was popular as a tooth cleaner!  As we moved into the 20^th century, manufacturers replaced powders with pastes like we use today.  Modern toothpaste often contains fluoride and there are varieties specifically designed for sensitive teeth.

Dental Floss

Flossing has been around since the mid 1800s.  In fact, early types of floss were made from silk.  In the 1940s, floss material was switched to nylon because it was smoother and more durable.  Silk often splayed or shredded.  

In the past, poor dental hygiene caused tooth decay and tooth loss for many people.  Many people have called Dr. Charles Bass the “Father of Preventive Dentistry.”  He recognized that good oral hygiene resulting in clean teeth and gums lead to a drop in tooth loss.    The combination of modern toothpaste, toothbrushes, floss and dental treatments give everyone the tools they need for adequate oral and dental health.

As you can see, dentistry has come a long way from bamboo toothbrushes.  Dr. Kezian keeps up with the newest advances and developments in the field so that you the patient receive excellent care.

Dr. Arthur A. Kezian DDS DDS 443 N. Larchmont Blvd Los Angeles, CA 90004 (323) 467-2777 

-N.S.