What Do You Need To Know About Root Canals?

By Arthur Kezian

If you have heard about a root canal therapy but are not aware of what it is, then Dr. Kezian can enlighten you. A root canal is a treatment that can save a person’s decayed or infected tooth. The procedure involves removal of tooth pulp or nerve that provides nourishment to the tooth for saving the tooth from decay or infection. After removal, the inside of the tooth is cleaned and sealed for preventing future health risks. If this treatment is avoided, then tissues surrounding the tooth may become infected which will ultimately result in the formation of abscesses.

Detailed Procedure of the Treatment:

·         “Root Canal” is actually a term used for describing the center cavity that resides in the center of the tooth.

·         Inside there is a soft area called the pulp chamber.

·         The never that provides nourishment lies in the pulp chamber.

·         During the treatment, that nerve is removed for preventing the growth of infection.

·         After removal, the pulp chamber is cleaned and sealed for avoiding future risks.

What Will Happen When the Nourishing Nerve Gets Removed?

·         Actually, nothing. Although that nerve is known as the nourishment providing never, it is not necessary for the health of a tooth.

·         Its function is sensory, meaning if it is removed, you will not feel temperature around that tooth (hot or cold sensation).

Importance of This Treatment:

·         If treatment is avoided, then the infection will grow continuously.

·         Growth of infection will result in the blockage of the tissue of a tooth.

·         If tissue gets broken, an abscess will eventually form. 

·         Slowly the infection will spread around the surrounding teeth and will cause a lot of pain.

Causes of Nerve or Pulp Damage:

There are a number of reasons behind the damage of a nerve or pulp. Some of them are given below:

·         Irritation or infection by tooth decay

·         Several dental treatments to the same tooth

·         Large fillings

·         A crack or a chip

·         A facial trauma

Symptoms of Pulp Damage:

Symptoms vary, and sometimes there may be no symptom at all. However, a dentist will agree that some classic signs of the problem include:

·         Severe toothache while applying pressure for chewing

·         Sensitivity in gums

·         Swollen gums

·         Darkening of the tooth

Along with these given signals, a pimple on the gums is sign of abscess and indicates that treatment is necessary.

Are There Any Side Effects of This Treatment?

Generally there are no side effects in most cases. Treatments provided by Dr. Kezian and staff have a fair success rate of 95%, but like other treatments, misdiagnosis is possible in this one too. New problems may take place after the treatment; some of those problems are:

·         Undetected crack in the root of a tooth

·         Eventual blockage on inner sealing material

However, chances of any infection are very rare and most treatments get completed successfully.

Are There Any Alternatives?

There are alternatives, but this one is the most common treatment that is applied to the patient by a root canal dentist. Generally, there are only three treatments for preventing the infection that is originating in the pulp:

·         Root Canal

·         Endodontic surgery

·         Extraction

The top 2 methods are used for preserving the tooth and stopping the infection, while the last treatment is applied only if salvage is impossible. Among the top 2 treatments, which one should be applied depends on the level of damage that has happened because of infection. This is decided by dentist.

If you are facing any of the above given symptoms and need a root canal, then make an appointment with Dr. Kezian as soon as possible for a diagnosis of the problem.

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

-N.S.

A Doctor in Need Is a Doctor Indeed

By Arthur Kezian

A severe tooth ache is enough to make anyone run to the nearest dentist who does emergency dentistry. What will you do if the doctor informs you that you’ve come to the wrong place for treatment because your tooth pain is actually due to a Sinus problem known as sinus toothache and refers you to an ENT specialist? A normal person cannot differentiate between a painful toothache and a sinus toothache. Dr. Kezian is an emergency dentist who specializes in both Prosthodontics and Orthodontics dentistry and well as being experienced in differentiating between a Painful tooth ache and a sinus tooth ache just by listening to you describe your symptoms. Dr. Kezian and his staff keep themselves updated with the latest technology and medical bulletins to differentiate various pain causes which affect the teeth.

Difference Between Painful Tooth Ache And Sinus Tooth Ache:
·         Painful toothache refers to pain around the teeth or jaw. Toothaches are caused due to dental cavity, a cracked tooth, an exposed tooth root, or gum disease. It may even be caused by temporomandibular joint disease. The severity of a toothache can range from chronic and mild to sharp and excruciating. Pain around the teeth can be diseases of the heart, ear infections or sinuses. Painful tooth pain can be treated and eliminated easily but sinus toothache which is severe needs complex processes and takes time to cure.
·         Sinuses are air-filled passages lined with the mucous membrane and connected with the maxillary sinuses located inside the cheekbones and upper jaw. Bacteria, virus and fungus can acuminate in the cavity where the infection enters. Since there is no proper drainage from that area, it results in sinus infection tooth pain. A huge pressure is exerted on your cheeks, tooth and upper jaw and gets highly affected. This infection spreads out and creates sinus toothache. If not treated immediately a Sinus toothache can stay active for weeks or even months.

Diagnosing And Remedies For Sinus Toothache:

• As you are aware sinus tooth ache is difficult to diagnose and recognize. However, there are indicators which can differentiate a normal tooth ache and sinus tooth ache. First is the location of the pain which will be usually in the upper back teeth on either side of the mouth. Headache will always accompany the Sinus toothache and the person can diagnose themselves to see if they are allergic to something or have allergies, allergy attacks and so forth.
• Some of the immediate home remedies to relive pain due to sinus tooth ache are applying tinctures made from salicylate herbs directly to the tooth which is causing pain. Applying clove oil to the tooth is another way to treat the pain.
• Garlic is one of the most universally used home cures to relive painful toothaches and sinus toothaches. Crushed garlic cloves applied directly to the teeth can relive the pain. Ginger root is another herb which attacks the bacteria and the inflammation behind sinus toothache. Turmeric made in paste and applied also has anti bacterial, anti inflammatory and anti pain properties.
  
  Sinus infections and toothaches can cause serious health problems if not treated immediately. Nature has given us natural cures for hundreds of problems related to our health. Sinus toothaches are highly treatable by natural cures. Dr. Kezian provides home remedies to relive pain from painful toothaches and sinus toothaches free of cost.

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

-N.S.

Evidence of Link between Tooth Loss and Alzheimer’s Disease

By Arthur Kezian

A Japanese study carried out involving approximately 4200 people over the age of 65 revealed that participants who had few natural teeth were more likely to experience loss of memory, dementia or the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease. The interesting thing is that most of those involved in the study especially those who showed signs of memory loss admitted to having rarely if ever, visiting a dentist. What’s more these results seem to be in support of the fact that the link between memory loss and tooth loss is becoming more clearer in the medical community. Dr. Kezian will explain this to you in detail.

Dr. Nozomi Okamoto who led the study strongly believes that the same gum infections that cause tooth loss and memory loss are responsible for allowing inflammatory agents to affect the brain killing numerous neurons in the process. The Dr. also mentioned that sensory receptors around the site of lost teeth are often negatively affected consequently underscoring the neuron death/inflammation theory. 

Alzheimer’s disease And Tooth Loss Discussed:

·         Losing teeth before the age of 35 has been described as a factor promoting the development of Alzheimer's disease hence the need for an emergency dentist. Research findings revealed that those people who tend to have more complex jobs or exercise more or may be engage a lot more in leisure activities are less vulnerable to experiencing Alzheimer’s disease as well as tooth loss as a result of gum disease. Take note, Dr. Kezian just like any other high profiling medic agrees that Alzheimer’s disease is considered as a degenerative brain disease that results into dementia.

·         Also, in most cases, the onset usually occurs when a person is in his or her 50’s and then gradually develops and worsens overtime. With time all the above translates into incapacitating problems especially relating to memory, thinking as well as behavior, problems with language, decision making abilities, personality and even judgment.

Details of the Disease Relationship:

·         In case you are not aware gum disease is simply a bacterial infection of the gums that comes about as a result of inadequate oral hygiene. It results into inflammation of the bone and gums especially around the teeth. You should also know that failure to address it accordingly will lead to tooth loss. In fact gum disease if the most common cause of teeth loss in adult population. Dr. Kezian believes that this confirms the suspected connection that exists between tooth loss and Alzheimer’s disease caused by inflammation of gums by bacteria. In short, early tooth loss doesn't necessarily cause Alzheimer’s disease instead it is gum disease responsible for tooth loss that is to blame.

·         At this point the relationship major concerns are being expressed following the study whose findings have already been published online. In fact the department of community health and epidemiology led by Dr. Nozomi Okamoto might have just stumbled upon this discovery at the same time shedding more light on the fact that inflammation is the most likely cause of a chain of reactions that lead to Alzheimer’s disease. Good or bad news is that more evidence continues to add up proving that infections in the gums are most likely to cause tooth loss consequently releasing inflammatory substances which in turn are believed to enhance the brain inflammation that causes neuronal death as well as hastening memory loss.

As already mentioned Dr. Kezian and staff strongly believe that gum disease is the main cause of tooth loss especially with adults and more people still continue to fall victim simply because they are not aware of the relationship that exists between the two. Fortunately for you this has been an eye opener. As much as it might seem impossible to reverse the effects of gum disease, it is advisable that you simply make a point of taking good care of your oral health and seeing an emergency dentist when needed as this will prevent further damage.  

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

-N.S.

Correcting Damaged Teeth

By Arthur Kezian 

Dental fillings are a sure way by which somebody can get their teeth back and in better shape than they were before. If you have cavities or damage to your teeth, you will want to get fillings to protect what remains of your teeth and strengthen your over-all oral health. Fillings are certain to make you feel better about your smile and make your teeth stronger than ever.

What Are Fillings?

·         For teeth that are decayed, rotted, or destroyed; a filling will be placed on the empty and cleaned out cavity in order to strengthen the tooth structure.

·         Porcelain fillings blend in with your teeth to make it look natural; these are made of sealant that will bind to your tooth/teeth so that you will reduce and/or stop the spread of decay. By using these forms of fillings, your other teeth will stay beautiful while the tooth/teeth with the problem receive the help that they need.

·         Dental cosmetic fillings used to be metal but are of the porcelain variety now. Temperatures do not harmfully affect the fillings anymore so no matter what is placed in your mouth – hot food or a cold drink – you can have the ease of eating/drinking without the fret of your filling being destroyed.

How To Get Fillings?

·         The first step in getting porcelain fillings is to go to your dentist. You must first allow him or her to look into your mouth and do an annual exam. If any new cavities are found, you will need a filling.

·         Once the doctor finds the decay on your teeth, they will schedule another appointment for you to get the cavity filled, unless it’s bad enough for it to be taken care of right away.

·         When you come back, Dr. Kezian and staff will prep you for your dental cosmetic fillings and will numb the localized area of your mouth so that they can properly fit you for the filling.

What Are The Different Forms Of Fillings?

·         A basic filling can usually be done right during your office visit but, there are two other forms of fillings that need to be sent to a Dentist lab. They are :

·         Inlays which are fillings in the inside or chewing part of the tooth;

·         And, outlays which fill the outer part of the tooth.

If you have any questions regarding fillings and the process of getting them done; do not hesitate to ask Dr. Kezian and staff. They are professionals and will be happy to answer any questions that you may have. They will always let you know what forms of fillings you may need and how many teeth may need them. Ask your local Dentist or Dr. Kezian for more important information about the process of getting your teeth filled.

If you have cavities or decay on one or more teeth; you may need a filling.  For the most part, Porcelain fillings are preferred over metal fillings and blend in with the natural color of your teeth. If you have had previous metal fillings, you can be re-fitted for a porcelain one. By getting your teeth filled, you will notice a decrease in the spread of the decay amongst your teeth and will be able to rescue them. If you have any questions about dental fillings, don’t hesitate to ask Dr. Kezian and staff.

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

-N.S.

Teeth Whitening Options Discussed By Dr. Kezian

By Arthur Kezian

If you've ever wanted to get your teeth whitened, consider yourself lucky as you are about to find out how to add life back into your smile through teeth whitening. Below is a detailed summary description of teeth whitening options by Dr. Kezian. There are many advantages to teeth whitening.

An Overview of the Basic of Teeth Whitening:

According to Dr Kezian, It is the enamel that normally protects the teeth from harmful oral acids. In fact it stands up to the rigors of chewing food. Enamel is porous and can stain over time. Off-white smiles usually make you look older and unhealthy. Brightening or whitening tooth enamel can make it free of years of staining. It is also very important to understand that as a result of the aging process of natural teeth in particular, teens typically experience the most pronounced teeth whitening compared to all other age groups. For adults however, more effort is needed to get optimal results.

Details of Whitening Options for the Teeth:

·         Our dentists offer patients different options for whitening their teeth. In some cases, professional whitening teeth kits can be prescribed. Most chemical kits require up to two hours of use in order for dramatic lightening of the teeth to be acquired after a couple of weeks. Prescription whitening in most cases has higher amounts of chemical whitener compared to the over-counter teeth whitening options available in most pharmacies and common drugstores.

·         Many patients prefer teeth whitening as a quicker/shorter alternative to help them make sure their teeth are whiter for upcoming events in their lives. Taking advantage of our custom trays and professional whitening kits will provide you with dramatic and amazing results in the shortest time possible. As a result of this your teeth will be looking whiter and help you smile more confidently.

General Approaches to Teeth Whitening:

       i.            Whitening tooth pastes : also referred to as dentifrices/ at home bleaching products/ they include over the counter whitening strips, over the counter whitening gels, dentist supervised whitening system that is tray based and over the counter tray based bleaching systems.

     ii.             Whitening gels: these are clear, peroxide – based whitening gels designed to be applied directly to the surface of the teeth. Their application is for twice a day for at least a period of two weeks or fourteen days.  Although initial results are noticeable after a few days the final results of using this teeth whitening option comes a couple of months down the line.

  iii.            Whitening strips: These are virtually visible strips that are coated with peroxide – based whitening gel. They are meant to be applied at least twice daily for thirty minutes over a two week period. They require a lot of patience because the final results of teeth whitening will only show after four months.

Regardless of the results you end up achieving with your whitening process, Dr. Kezian and staff believe that the degree of whitening will always vary depending on the method you choose. Please take note that over the counter products do not offer you the close supervision of your dentist which in fact helps determine which brightening option is best for you as well as checking the progress of teeth whitening and  keeping an open eye for gum irritation.

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

-N.S.

Get Dental Bridges to Replace Missing Teeth

By Arthur Kezian

A dental bridge is implemented for spanning the gap between more than one missing tooth. It is also popularly known as a bridge or crown. It is one of the popular techniques used by dentists. As the first step, both sides of the teeth-gap are crowned by the Cosmetic Dentist. The replacement teeth will be then carefully suspended between these two crowned teeth. This technique allows the bridges to be supported with ease by the natural teeth of the patient. The individual can also choose the more expensive dental implant option for restoration of missing teeth. For those who cannot afford to get dental implants, dental bridges will do the job. Bridges are usually made up of materials such as porcelain, alloy and gold. However taking in to consideration the requirements of the individual and most patients, tooth coloured porcelain bridges are the most sought after and used bridges.

Benefits of Dental Bridges

There are a range of benefits which the patient will be able to enjoy after bridging their missing teeth.

·         The most important among them is the restoration of self confidence which will help the person smile with confidence and can eat food without worrying about missing teeth.
·         You can talk and chew comfortably.
·         It prevents other teeth from drifting towards the space left by missing teeth.
·         Usually missing teeth can cause change in the shape and structure of the face.
Bridges are designed to prevent facial collapse.

Studies show that when a person suffering from missing teeth leaves the gap unfilled through improper treatment, they are most likely to lose more teeth within the next four years. Dr. Kezian and staff recommend the missing teeth be filled as soon as possible to prevent these complications.

Proper care of dental bridges

Proper oral care and hygiene are required for dental bridges to last longer.

·         Going for your regular checkup to Dr. Kezian’s office in Los Angeles is preferred for maintaining proper oral care of bridges. However most people mistakenly think partial dentures are a removable bridge. Please take note that bridges are permanent and non-removable dental prosthetics. Partial dentures only replace a few teeth in a row.
·         Bridges are placed in such a position that a lot depends on the strength and stability of the surrounding teeth. Because of this, it is inevitable for the patient to maintain an excellent dental hygiene in order to keep these important foundational teeth healthy for a longer duration.
·         It is imperative for the patient to maintain a healthier and balanced diet in order to keep the teeth healthy and strong.

There are three kinds of bridges: Traditional bridges, cantilever bridges and Maryland bonded bridges. The cantilever bridges are used when a person has an adjacent tooth on only one side of the missing teeth. Maryland bonded bridges are usually made up of plastic teeth and gums that are supported by a framework made up of metal. It uses metal wings which are bonded towards either side of the bridge towards the existing teeth. The dentist will deliver the bridge after taking impressions of the teeth. This is done in a dental lab. Till that time, a temporary bridge will be provided for the patient in order to protect the exposed teeth and gums while the permanent bridge is bring made. Once the patient receives the permanent bridge, the dentist will then place it temporarily on the missing teeth for a couple of weeks  and evaluate it in order to check if it has a proper fit. The bridge will be then be permanently cemented in place of the missing teeth.

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

-N.S.

Maintain Oral Health with Family Dentist

By Arthur Kezian

There is a belief that brushing and flossing will contribute to good oral health, but in reality, just brushing and flossing doesn't suffice. There are several precautions and efforts to be taken by a person in maintaining stronger teeth. Dr. Kezian recommends a dental exam in his office twice a year to reach good oral hygiene and maintain it. Oral health is as important as anything since it can greatly influence the personality of the person while attending any social gatherings or interviews. A smile can give a positive impression and teeth are what add beauty to it. Uneven or stained teeth can lead to embarrassment and depression because of the impact it can have among other things.

Oral Hygiene Basics

Brushing and flossing the teeth is above all, the most important thing.

It is said that there are a maximum of 10 to 15 billion bacteria present in the mouth of each an individual; there are 600 different identifiable types. Upon the accumulation of these bacteria, a thicker form of sticky bio film, popularly known as plaque, is formed.

·         Even though a majority of these identifiable bacteria are harmless, there are more than enough microbes that are malicious in nature and cause serious health issues for the individual if not taken care of properly. Some of the diseases that occur due to these microbes include gum disease and tooth decay. Visiting a dentist regularly can help maintain your oral health.
·         Brushing and flossing the teeth regularly helps in the prevention and control of this bacterial pollution to a greater extent, thereby preventing the damage caused when in large numbers.

Oral health Maintenance

Maintaining a good oral health is very important for people since not taking care of the mouth and teeth can lead to many complications and diseases.

·         Even for the person maintaining good oral hygiene, traces of plaque and food remains are still visible between the teeth. This usually happens when the food remains get accumulated in places where the brushes cannot reach with ease.
·         This, if not treated properly within 48 hours, results in the hardening of plaque which is also known as tartar. Tartar is an insoluble substance that cannot be removed by brushing or flossing.
·         Most people do not initiate to have a dental exam unless and until they have major problems with their teeth. Dr. Kezian and his staff recommend visiting a dentist at least once every six months to have a detailed dental check up and cleaning.

The main objective of the dentist would be to remove the tartar or traces of plaque that cannot be removed by the person or brush because of its awkward positioning inside the teeth. This will greatly reduce the possibilities of oral health issues at a future stage. The check up will also cover other aspects in dental examinations such as detecting the early signs of tooth decay and disease.

A thorough examination with a dentist along with a cleaning during regular intervals would be beneficial for adults as well as young children. Maintaining good oral hygiene shows that the individual is health conscious and ensures good oral health.

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

-N.S.