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.