Dentist Kirk Petersen, DMD, loves practicing in Southern California. With Hemet West Dental Office, he prides himself on providing quality care to as many people as possible, and also educating his patients so they can better manage their own health and can educate others. With these goals in mind, he talks here about everything from the benefits of fluoride to treating common tooth injuries to detecting oral cancer.
How Often Should You See a Dentist?
Most people should try and see their dentist every six months. This is especially important for children who have growing teeth that might suddenly change and need special attention. It’s even important for denture-wearers, who are prone to getting mouth ulcers and sores.
The Importance of Professional Dental Cleaning
You might think that if you floss and brush regularly there is no real need to see the dentist unless there is a problem. Wrong. Regular appointments can prevent some problems which you may be unaware of, such as the beginnings of gum disease.
Why to Try Sedation Dentistry
With special medication, a dental phobia can now become a thing of the past. People who have put off dental treatment can now visit the dentist without being afraid and get that much-needed work done.
Why Adults Can Take Fluoride
Years ago only children had nasty-tasting fluoride painted on their teeth. Now it tastes much better and has been proven to benefit children and adults alike.
All About Digital Dental X-Rays
New digital dental x-rays are quicker and easier, plus they allow the dentist to see a lot more. But the best bit is that with them, patients are exposed to a lot less radiation than they were in the past.
What is DIAGNOdent?
With this new method, checking for cavities and decay has never been easier. Now your dentist can simply use a laser that can uncover decay quickly, painlessly and – best of all – incredibly thoroughly.
Common Tooth Injuries
If you have a chopped tooth, a fractured tooth or another type of injury, never fear. Your dentist can come to your rescue. The important thing, in some cases, is to act quick. Don’t let a tooth injury fester, or you may suffer additional problems as well.
Dealing With a Knocked-Out Tooth
Did you know that if a child loses a tooth, the best thing to do is rush to the dentist – while it is resting in a cup of milk? Read more to find out more about how to preserve teeth.
Fixing Stained Teeth
With so many people drinking red wine and coffee on a regular basis, it’s no surprise that so many of us have discolored teeth. Luckily, there are ways to get rid of the staining, which vary according to the type of stain.
Do Over-the-Counter Whitening Kits Work?
The simple answer is no. Well, they do work, but not as well as the whitening treatment that you would get from in a dentist’s office. No surprise there, then.
What is Clear Correct?
These are a type of aligners, similar to braces, that straighten teeth as you wear them over time. Although they are similar to Invisalign, they are actually even less visible.
What Are Lumineers?
With so many veneers to choose, from the choice can be confusing at best. But if you want to avoid drilling or shots, the choice is clear: Lumineers. They are as thin as a contact lens and can be attached painlessly to your teeth.
What is Composite Bonding?
Composite bonding can transform your smile but it isn’t always the best way of getting the best results. However, the price can be a lot cheaper than other options, which is why so many people choose this method, as this article explains.
What Are CEREC One-Appointment Crowns?
With this new method, crowns are actually made for you in the dental office while you wait and then fitted. This makes the need for a temporary crown unnecessary and can also reduce the risk of infection while a permanent crown is being made.
Getting a Smile Makeover
Whether you want to look prettier or younger, a brand new smile can change the way you look, as well as your entire outlook on life. Talk to your dentist about what a smile makeover can do for you.
Dental Implants vs Partial Dentures
For the most part, dental implants are far superior to dentures. Although they may cost more upfront, in the long run they work a lot better – and can even be cheaper. Ask your dentist for more information.
Methods of Tooth Extraction
How a dentist will extract a tooth depends on the reason it is being extracted. But most teeth are actually wedged out instead of being pulled out, and the whole process takes usually just five minutes or less from beginning to end.
Treatments for Gum Disease
With this new non-invasive treatment, there is no more need for root planing and scaling. Instead, patients with gum disease wear a mouthguard that gets special medication right into the dental pockets.
Gum Disease and Alzheimer’s Disease
Gum diseases has been linked to many ailments, such as heart attack and stroke. Research shows it can also have a strong link with Alzheimer’s Disease, so brush and floss regularly and visit your dentist.
How ViziLite Plus Detects Oral Cancer
New tools have made it a lot easier for dentists to detect oral cancer, which has a low survival rate unless detected incredibly early. This non-invasive technique makes a special light glow if there is evidence of cancer in the mouth.
The information in the article is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your healthcare provider. We encourage you to discuss any decisions about treatment or care with an appropriate healthcare provider.
