May 16 Comments Off

Preparing for a Dental Emergency

Posted by Dr. Shervin M. Louie Published Date May 16

No matter how impeccable your oral hygiene is, dental emergencies may happen. This is especially true during the summer months when it is warm outside and you spend a lot of time participating in activities like bike riding, playing football or other outdoor sports. While these activities are fun, they put us at risk of damaging our teeth due to things like falling or getting hit in the face with a ball. Fortunately, when dental emergencies arise, a cosmetic dentist can often save your teeth. It is best to try to avoid dental accidents if at all possible, but when a dental emergency does arise, knowing what to do can make all the difference at being able to save your tooth. Here is what you need to know.

A Tooth that’s Been Knocked Out or Damaged In Some Way

If your face suffers from some kind of impact, you can lose a tooth. This impact can be caused from things like tripping and falling down or a hard hit during a recreational sport. No matter what causes your tooth to be knocked out, you need to take action immediately. Your first step should be to take the tooth that’s been dislodged and rinse it off with water. Put the tooth back into place and contact your Los Angeles dentist. If you aren’t able to put the tooth back into the socket, put it in either a cup of salt water or milk. This will help save your tooth.

When the Soft Tissue Has Been Injured

In addition to your teeth being knocked out or damaged, other areas of your mouth can be injured as well. These areas include your gums, lips, cheeks and tongue. You will notice that these areas are injured if you experience any sort of pain, bleeding or swelling. If any of these symptoms do occur, you need to put warm water in a cup and rinse out your mouth with it. For bleeding, use moistened gauze and apply direct pressure to the area. If you don’t have any gauze on hand you can use a tea bag as well. Bleeding should stop in 30 minutes or less. If it doesn’t, or it tends to get worse, this is a dental emergency. For swelling, you can use a cold compress on the outside of the mouth or cheek.

In conclusion, if your mouth hurts, it’s considered a dental emergency. You should not delay visiting your Los Angeles dentist as the problem can often get worse. The sooner you get into your cosmetic dentist to be seen, the greater chance you have of a better outcome.

May 09 Comments Off

Why Sports and Energy Drinks are Not Good for Your Oral Health

Posted by Dr. Shervin M. Louie Published Date May 09

As young people become more and more active, it is also important that they become more cautious. When young people participate in fun activities such as basketball, swimming, football and skateboarding, they are putting themselves at risk of injury. Each year tons of unexpected injuries can lead to lost or damaged teeth. Although many of these injuries can be avoided, it is imperative to take quick action when they do occur. Dr. Louie, dentist in Los Angeles, sets aside specific times to treat this array of dental injuries.

When playing a sport, it is very possible to lose one or multiple teeth. It is very important that if this occurs, patients quickly retrieve the dislodged tooth and put it in water to rinse. It is also very important not to remove any tissue during this process. Those who are injured also have the option of placing the tooth in a small cup of milk or salt water solution until they can get to the dentist. The quicker you get to a cosmetic dentist like Dr. Louie, the greater the chance of saving the tooth.

Many people are surprised to learn that sports drinks along with energy drinks can also cause damage to a person’s teeth. Many studies show that the increase in the use of sports drinks has created a rise in irreversible damage to teeth. Many people began drinking energy drinks hoping to gain extra energy to help them with their athletic performance. They are convinced that these drinks are a great alternative to soda. However, the reality is that these drinks are loaded with acid that cause harm to teeth. When you consume these drinks, you are essentially bathing your teeth in acid.

Educating the public about the downside of consuming sports drinks is an important next step. According to the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD), 30 to 50 percent of teenagers in the US consume energy drinks. Of that group, more than 62 percent consume at least one sports drink per day. That means a high percentage of young people are doing damage to their teeth on a daily basis. Many of these kids have no idea the effect a sports drink can have on their health. Many dentists recommend teenagers limit the consumption of these drinks. Also, they recommend chewing sugar-free gum. When they do consume sports drinks, young people should rinse their mouths out with water afterwards.

Protecting your teeth is an important job which should be taken seriously. Taking precautions could ultimately determine just how bright your smile will be.

May 07 Comments Off

Dentist Los Angeles, CA – Link Between Gum Disease and Heart Attack

Posted by Dr. Shervin M. Louie Published Date May 07

Gum Disease Contributes to Heart Attack

While several theories currently exist to explain the link between periodontal disease and heart disease, one thing is clear – the health of your mouth directly relates to the health of your body. Like a window to the rest of your body, the health of your mouth can significantly affect your overall health. So when it comes time for your dental appointment don’t skip out. Help protect your heart by taking proper care of your dental health to further prevent the development of gum disease.

Dr. Shervin Louie, dentist Los Angeles, places a strong emphasis on the importance of proper oral health care to protect you from heart attack and even stroke. It has been stated that the oral bacteria can affect the heart when entering the blood stream, attaching to fatty plaques in the coronary arteries and contributing to clot formation, which can obstruct normal blood flow. This obstruction can restrict the amount of nutrients and oxygen required for the heart to function properly, resulting in a heart attack.

Researchers continue to find that those who have periodontal (gum) disease are almost twice as likely to suffer from a heart attack as those without gum disease. What does this mean for you? Dr. Louie, Los Angeles family dentist, urges you to maintain your regular appointments with his office in order to further prevent the development of gum disease. With routine dental checkups, you can ensure that your mouth is healthy, and, if it isn’t, Dr. Louie can help get you on the right track to further prevent systemic complications such as heart attack or stroke.

If you are at risk for heart disease, Dr. Shervin Louie, Beverly Hills dentist, offers helpful tips to help save your life:

Lose weight if you are overweight
Eat healthy foods
Exercise regularly
Control any conditions that increase risk
Brush twice a day
Floss daily
Maintain regular visits with his office

If you keep your mouth clean, it is very hard for bacteria that cause periodontal disease to get started. You will even experience fewer fillings, healthier gums, and a brighter smile. So begin now and take the next step towards a healthy smile and body.

For further information on how to properly care for your teeth to prevent gum disease and protect your body from systemic complications, contact Dr. Shervin Louie, your dentist in Beverly Hills.

Apr 16 Comments Off

Preventing the Accumulation of Plaque and Tartar

Posted by Dr. Shervin M. Louie Published Date Apr 16

Plaque and Tartar Prevention

Dental plaque is formed by colonizing bacteria and sugars in the foods we eat. According to Dr. Shervin Louie, plaque that is not effectively removed may develop into tartar, a hardened deposit that is also called calculus. Once tartar has developed, you will need to make a visit to our Los Angeles Dentist to have it professionally removed through a process called scaling.

Plaque begins to develop quite quickly after a meal or snack, and the bacteria in our mouths begin to launch an acidic attack against the enamel of our teeth, softening them and making them vulnerable to decay. When the offending plaque is removed through brushing and flossing, our teeth have a chance to harden again through a process called remineralization. If the plaque is allowed to remain, the decay process continues and can worsen, leading to cavities, abscesses, or tooth loss.

Tartar often forms along the gumline, forming an unsightly yellow or brown thickened surface on the teeth. It is cosmetically unattractive, but because it is very porous, it can also encourage the formation of more plaque. More plaque can lead to more decay and more tartar, creating a vicious cycle. According to Dr. Shervin Louie, both tartar and plaque irritate and inflame the gums, creating a high risk for gum disease.

Ultimately, plaque and tartar buildup are two of the biggest risk factors for gum disease and tooth loss, and both are highly preventable through adequate oral hygiene and regular dental checkups. A visit to our Los Angeles dentist every six months ensures a thorough cleaning to remove plaque and tartar you can’t see or reach, as well as a checkup for early signs of other oral health problems

Apr 16 Comments Off

Los Angeles Dental Care – Link between dental x-rays and brain tumors

Posted by Dr. Shervin M. Louie Published Date Apr 16

Los Angeles Dental Care

A study recently published in the journal Cancer shows that people who have had dental X-rays are more likely to develop a type of brain tumor called meningioma than those who have not.

This does not prove that dental X-rays cause tumors. But it supports previous research about the connection. But there’s still significant doubt about the existence of any direct relationship between meningioma and dental X-rays, and dental professionals were quick to call for more research, saying the study was less than perfect.

Dr. Louie, your Los Angeles dentist feels that media has hyped up this issue in regards to dental x-rays and brain tumors. Looking at the facts, there is no concrete evidence connecting the two according to him.

Further morethe American Dental Association recommends that dentists be judicious in their use of X-rays. For patients whose teeth are healthy and who are not at increased risk of developing cavities, the ADA suggests children have X-rays about every one to two years; adolescents, every year and a half to three years; and adults, every two to three years.

In a statement, the ADA noted the study’s potential flaws and encouraged further research: “[T]he results rely on the individuals’ memories of having dental x-rays taken years earlier. Studies have shown that the ability to recall information is often imperfect. . . . Also, the study acknowledges that some of the subjects received dental x-rays decades ago when radiation exposure was greater. Radiation rates were higher in the past due to the use of old x-ray technology and slower speed film.”

Our Los Angeles Cosmetic Dentist, Dr. Shervin Louie offers one of the latest technological advances in digital x-rays. A sensor is placed in the mouth and a computer generates an image in 5 seconds, as opposed to the general 4- to 6-minute wait time for images taken on dental film. These x-rays may also be enhanced and/or enlarged on the computer.

Not only are these x-rays friendly to the environment, they are much safer than traditional x-rays. Digital x-rays reduce radiation exposure by more than 90 percent.

The office of Dr. Shervin Louie, your Los Angeles Larchmont Village Dentist is equipt with digital x-ray units.

Apr 11 Comments Off

Dental Fillings Los Angeles: Mercury/Silver(Metal) vs. White (Resin) filling

Posted by Dr. Shervin M. Louie Published Date Apr 11

Dental Fillings Los Angeles

A dental restoration or dental filling is a dental restorative material used to restore the function, integrity and morphology of missing tooth structure. Without restoration, bacteria are able to gain access to the interior structure of the tooth, causing further damage. Several filling materials exist, but mercury/silver and white/resin are the two most commonly used. If you have broken or decayed teeth, Dr. Shervin M. Louie has laid out the difference between these two fillings to help you decide which may be right for your situation.

Mercury/Silver fillings have a high metal content that makes them capable of withstanding strong bite forces. These fillings are fairly inexpensive, but because they contain mercury, many people are uncomfortable with their use.

Mercury/Silver fillings are not advised for pregnant women or people with certain health conditions and also increase the risk of sensitivity in the restored tooth. Because retention grooves must be created before placement, more tooth structure is removed than with other types of fillings, which weakens the tooth.

White/Resin fillings, on the other hand, are made of an acrylic and glass composite. White, or composite, fillings are natural looking and harden quickly, allowing patients to eat and drink immediately without having to worry about damaging their new filling. White fillings also bond directly to the tooth, resulting in a overall stronger tooth. White fillings tend to cost more than Mercury/Silver fillings.

Teeth at least should be brushed twice and flossed once daily. If you have a cracked or damaged tooth or are suffering from dental decay, call us and you can speak to Dr. Shervin M. Louie our Los Angeles dentist about which filling material may be best for you.

Dr. Shervin M. Louie provides many dental treatments, including dental implants, dental veneers, Lumineers, Invisalign and many teeth whitening treatments.

Mar 29 Comments Off

Smile in LA – Little Known Secrets for a Celebrity Smile

Posted by Dr. Shervin M. Louie Published Date Mar 29

Simple habit modification and diet can lead you to a brighter and better smile. According to Dr. Louie, your Los Angeles dentist, and the American Dental Association (ADA) , below are three tips to gain confidence when making that picture perfect smile of yours.

1. Lower the frequency of eating food that is high in sugar.

Did you know that many foods other than candy promote tooth decay? Bacteria feed on the sugar of candy creating cavity causing acid. Bacteria, however, not only use candy to create acid but can also use any food which contains sugars and other carbohydrates. This includes chocolates, fruits, chips, peanut butter and other foods.

What can you do to protect yourself? Well brushing after meals helps by removing both the bacteria and the left over food particles which the bacteria feast on. If you cannot brush, try washing food down with liquids ensuring that less food remains on teeth. Chewing sugarless gum also helps because this stimulates saliva flow. Saliva acts as a natural plaque fighting substance and fights bad breath.

2. Try to brush your teeth gently.

Nearly two out of three people damage their own teeth by brushing too hard. It takes very little pressure to remove bacteria, food, and plaque. Unfortunately, most people apply three to four times the necessary brushing pressure causing damage to teeth and gums. This damage includes: receding gums, sensitive teeth, notched teeth, and root cavities.

3. Too much coffee.

Coffee is one of the most dangerous threats to your smile. Coffee stains teeth destroying your naturally white smile. Worst yet, because most people sip coffee throughout the day, bacteria are provided with a constant source of sugar from which to produce cavity causing acid.

In addition, coffee can cause small fractures in teeth called crazes. These occur when the teeth are forced to expand and contract as a result of being exposed to hot foods or liquids. These hot and cold cycles occur when we drink hot coffee. Over a prolonged period of time, this will create crazes in the teeth.

Mar 08 Comments Off

Los Angeles Cosmetic Dentist

Posted by Dr. Shervin M. Louie Published Date Mar 08

No matter what your age is, oral health maintenance is vital for a healthy smile and body. Taking care of your mouth is simple. Dr. Louie, your Los Angeles dentist, and the American Dental Association (ADA) recommend the following for maintaining good oral hygiene:

Remember to Brush

It is important to brush your teeth at least two times a day with fluoride toothpaste. Be sure to replace your toothbrush every three or four months, as well, or even sooner if the bristles are frayed. Replacing your toothbrush when it is worn is important because a worn toothbrush will not do an adequate job of cleaning your teeth and protecting it from disease.

Don’t Forget to Floss

Many people often skip flossing because they don’t understand the importance. In addition to brushing your teeth twice a day, be sure to clean between your teeth daily with floss. Tooth decay-causing bacteria linger between your teeth where your toothbrush cannot always reach. By using floss at least once a day, you can help to remove the sticky film on teeth called plaque and food particles from between the teeth and under the gum line.

In addition to brushing and flossing your teeth every day, your dentist in Los Angeles also emphasizes the importance of maintaining a well-balanced diet. Be sure to eat a balanced diet and limit your between-meal snacks to help protect not only your body, but your teeth as well. As always, visit Dr. Louie, your Mid Wilshire dentist, regularly for professional cleanings and oral exams.

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