Advanced Dentistry of Alhambra Blog

To better understand the problem, let’s take a look at the anatomy of a tooth. Right in the middle of the tooth is the pulp (in pink) where the nerve of the tooth is located. The pulp plays vital role in early age when the teeth are developing. In mature teeth, the pulp is simply a signal system to alert where there is something wrong. Being so important, the nerve is protected by two layers. The outside layer, called enamel is the strongest structure in the human body and acts as a shield for the tooth crown. It is very condensed and free of any sensation. That’s why cavities in very early stage are painless. The inside layer, dentin is built from small tubules, microscopic channels that travel from the pulp to the enamel border. This tubules are housing the nerve endings.

(more…)

It is common knowledge that the food we eat can significantly affect our general and dental health.  In the recent years the benefits of Calcium and Vitamin D for bone and teeth health, have been promoted widely. But calcium and vitamin D are not the only nutritional factors for structural integrity of the bone. An excess of these nutrients may even have the negative effect. It is important that the calcium and vitamin D are balanced with other nutrients like zinc, vitamin K, and most importantly magnesium.

Magnesium is essential for many biological processes that occur in the body. Besides the calcium absorption, magnesium activates over 300 reactions in the body and it is responsible to maintain proper muscle relaxation, helps stabilize the rhythm of the heart and prevents abnormal blood clothing. It activated many of the B vitamins, which without magnesium are not as effective.

(more…)

Are bleeding gums during pregnancy normal? Would that stop after the pregnancy?

Gingivitis, inflammation of the gums, is very common during the pregnancy, usually starts at the end of the first trimester and continues until baby is delivered.  During the second semester a small overgrowth may appear on the gums in the areas where more plaque or food gets trapped. Pregnancy gingivitis comes with red, puffy and sometimes tender gums that tend to bleed when you brush. During the pregnancy a hormone called progesterone is high. That combined with plaque collection on the teeth attracts bacteria and creates inflammation. That is why cleaning appointments and maintaining great oral hygiene is essential during pregnancy.

(more…)

The conventional process for designing and attaching a dental crown requires at least two dental appointments, which are typically spread out across at least a few weeks. Many patients find the procedure to be tedious and time-consuming. Fortunately, you may be a candidate for a different type of crown — one that can be designed and secured onto your tooth in just a single appointment. Let’s talk more about what a CEREC crown is, how the process works, and how you can benefit from this technology.

(more…)

You recently received clear aligners to straighten your smile. Your dentist explained that 22 hours of Invisalign wear time each day is necessary if you want to avoid any delays in treatment. But if you’re supposed to take out your trays each time you eat and drink, how can you possibly wear your braces for the full amount of time? Read on to discover what a dentist has to say and how following these three tips will help keep your smile on the right track.

(more…)