Be Informed About Oral Piercings

Be Informed About Oral Piercings

By Mina Levi, DDS 02/13/2014

Many people get piercings, but there are risks to your dental and oral health involved in getting an oral piercing that you need to know about before deciding on getting one. In the article below, we discuss risks and other information associated with oral piercings so that you can be as informed as possible.

Risks of Getting an Oral Piercings

1. Symptoms after oral piercings include pain, swelling, and increased saliva flow.  

2. The mouth is home to a large amount of bacteria even when oral hygiene is readily executed, and infections occur readily after an oral piercing. Although not as common, severe infections such as hepatitis or endocarditis can occur as a result of an oral piercing.

3. Piercers do not typically have training in anatomy and physiology, and if a blood vessel or nerve is in the pathway of the needle during the piercing process it can cause severe bleeding or nerve damage.

4. Sometimes blood poisoning, metal allergies, or blood clots can occur.

5. Metal jewelry in the mouth is often the cause of cracked and broken teeth. This risk is reduced slightly by plastic jewelry, but is not eliminated.

6. Piercings of the lips in which the backside of the jewelry lies on the inside of the mouth can cause irritation of the gum tissue as it can scrape and wear gum tissue away as it moves in the mouth. This requires reconstructive surgery to repair and sometimes results in the loss of teeth. It is incredibly important to check the gum health regularly at the dental office of Dr. Mina Levi DDS to discover this early.

If You Already Have an Oral Piercing

If you already have an oral piercing, you may want to consider having the jewelry removed to protect

 your teeth and gums. If you decide to keep it, make sure to do the following:

1. Remove the jewelry when participating in sports, and also wear a mouth guard.

2. Check the tightness of your jewelry regularly with very clean hands, to ensure the jewelry is never loose.

3. Have regular check-ups with the dentist Dr. Mina Levi to keep track of the health of the gums and teeth.

How to Choose a Good Piercer

Choosing a professional is very important when considering having

an oral piercing done, because you want it done correctly. The Association of Professional Piercers (APP) provides resources for finding a reputable piercer on their website at www.safepiercing.org. It is important to make sure your piercer uses an autoclave sterilizer and that they do not re-use needles. Make sure that the piercing room is clean and that you will be receiving aftercare instructions. It is encouraged that you ask your piercer questions that will help you evaluate their experience. Be sure to follow your instincts; if the piercer or piercing location does not seem to meet all of the standards or does not make you feel comfortable, then go somewhere else.

It is your personal decision whether or not to get an oral piercing, but make sure that you are as informed as possible before deciding. If you have any questions or concerns about oral piercings and the risks involved with your oral health, visit Dentist San Francisco Mina Levi DDS on the web at www.minalevidds.com or give us a call at (415) 513-5066.

Topics: Dentist San Francisco, Oral Piercing, Risks of Oral Piercings, Oral Health, Gum Damage, Tooth Loss

Lumineers

Lumineers

By Mina Levi, DDS, 02/06/2014 

A common worry that patients have when considering getting porcelain veneers put on as a cosmetic choice is the amount of healthy tooth structure that has to be removed in order to do so.  Traditional porcelain veneers are thick, so a good amount of tooth structure must be shaved down in order to ensure that the veneers look natural and do not turn out too bulky and stick out. This is a credible concern and causes many patients to turn away from having their dream smile. However, Den Mat’s Lumineers are thin like a contact lens, and allow for a minimally invasive veneer experience. In this article, we talk about what Lumineers are and how patients can benefit from this option.

What are Lumineers?

Lumineers are ultra-thin veneers that can be seamlessly applied over your teeth for a flawless, natural looking smile. They are minimally invasive and do not require shots, temporaries, or the loss of much healthy tooth structure.

How long will Lumineers last?

Clinical testing has proven that Lumineers can look great and last durably for over twenty years.

With Lumineers, can I still chew gum and eat my favorite sticky foods?

Lumineers are applied in the most durable way possible, so you may eat and drink whatever you want. However, Lumineers don’t replace good hygiene, so you should continue to visit your dentist every 6 months for a check-up and cleaning to keep your Lumineers looking their best.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding Lumineers or any other cosmetic dentistry options, visit Lumineers Dentist San Francisco Mina Levi DDS on the web at www.minalevidds.com or give us a call at (415) 513-5066.

Topics: Lumineers, porcelain veneers, cosmetic dentistry, cosmetic options, Lumineers dentist San Francisco

Mouthwash: Do I Need to Use It?

Mouthwash: Do I Need to Use it?

By Mina Levi, DDS 01/30/2014

Many of us are aware that brushing and flossing should be a part of our daily hygiene regimen, but mouthwash seems to have always been optional. This leaves us with questions regarding whether or not it is actually necessary, what kinds we should be using, and how often. The only thing we know to be true is that it usually burns our mouths when we use it. In this article, we discuss the history of mouthwash and how to use it in our daily dental care routines.

Where did mouthwash come from?

People have been using mouthwash-like recipes for cleaning teeth and freshening breath since ancient times, in Greek, Egyptian, Chinese and Roman cultures. The mouthwash that we know and use today was developed and mass-produced in the later 1800’s. Then, most of the mouthwash formulas used alcohol to kill off germs. With improvements in science and research, we are now able to develop mouthwash formulas without alcohol and instead with products like cetylpyridium chloride. There are even developments of mouthwash formulas for sensitive mouths or with more natural products that work to kill germs, too.

Is mouthwash a necessary part of the oral hygiene regimen?

If a person has optimal oral health and keeps up with flossing and brushing regularly, then mouthwash is optional, but still good to use. However, for those who have gingivitis, periodontitis, easily bleeding gums, halitosis, or other oral health-related ailments, then mouthwash is absolutely a necessary part of the daily dental care routine. Mouthwash works with brushing and flossing (and should for no reason act as a substitute for either) to keep the mouth healthy. Mouthwash can be helpful in ensuring that the maximum amount of germs are destroyed, especially those that the brushing and flossing may have missed.

How do I know if I am using mouthwash properly?

There are a few factors to consider when using mouthwash, which is how much you should use, how much you should dilute it, and how long you should swish it in your mouth.

You want to have enough mouthwash in your mouth to be able to run it throughout the mouth and through all of the crevices of the teeth and gums, but you do not want so much that you are not able to move it around in your mouth easily. One way to ensure that you are using a good amount is to use amouthwash dispenser. This also helps with over-filling and wasting the mouthwash.

Depending on the brand or type of mouthwash you choose to use, each may have different recommendations on dilution. With alcoholic mouthwashes, it is good to dilute them with water so that the burning sensation is not so intense. However, if the label on the mouthwash does not recommend diluting, then diluting it may cause the germ-killing benefits to decrease.

Normally, a good amount of time to have mouthwash in the mouth each time is about thirty seconds to one minute. However, this time will also depend on the brand or type of mouthwash that you choose to use.

The most important factor in the proper use of mouthwash is to remember that mouthwash is not a replacement or substitute for brushing or flossing.

What type should I be using?

The office of Dr. Mina Levi suggests using a non-alcoholic mouthwash with a medium concentration that does not stain the teeth. Oxyfresh is a good option – it has hydrogen peroxide and Xylitol, which adds antibacterial and mechanical properties from the foam to push plaque out of the periodontal pockets. Xylitol has antibacterial properties and inhibits the growth of oral bacteria. Oxyfresh also has mouthwashes with peppermint oil or lemon-mint scent.  

If you have any questions about what type of mouthwash you should be using or if you are including mouthwash in your daily dental hygiene routine correctly, visit Dentist San Francisco Mina Levi DDS on the web at www.minalevidds.com, or give us a call at (415) 513-5066.

Topics: natural mouthwash, natural toothpaste, mouthwash, oral hygiene, teeth brushing, flossing, daily dental care routine, germs, Dentist San Francisco,gingivitis, heavy bleeding, periodontitis

Don't Forget to Floss!

Don’t Forget to Floss!

By Mina Levi DDS, 01/23/2014

Flossing should always be a part of your daily oral hygiene routine. However, as most of us are told when we visit the dentist, many people are not flossing enough or correctly. Even just by flossing once per day, the risk of gum disease decreases dramatically. Below we discuss flossing techniques, routines, and types.

Why is flossing necessary?

When you brush your teeth, you are cleaning the side and top surfaces of the teeth, which is wonderful and necessary. However, your toothbrush cannot reach in between your teeth. Flossing removes the plaque and buildup that stick to the teeth and gums in the crevices where the toothbrush cannot reach. Also, flossing helps to polish the surfaces of the teeth so they look shiny and healthy.

How often do I need to floss?

Flossing should occur for about two to three minutes at least once per day, but twice per day is even better. The best time to floss your teeth is during your night time oral hygiene regimen to ensure that the teeth are cleaned from a day’s worth of eating and chewing.

What is the best way to floss?

When flossing, make sure that you aren’t rubbing the floss from side to side. This technique is not able to lift the plaque and buildup out from the spaces between the teeth. Instead, use an up and down motion that forms a “C” pattern on the side of the tooth. Also, make sure to floss below the gum-line to get the plaque from the periodontal pockets. Flossing should not cause you any pain, but if you have not flossed in a while you may experience some bleeding. If these effects do not subside in about one to two weeks, contact the Dentist San Francisco Mina Levi DDS.

What kind of floss should I be using?

Wide floss or woven floss is the best for patients who have not very tight teeth contacts. Waxed floss is the best for patients with tight spaces between the teeth or crowding of the teeth. Un-waxed or woven floss is thicker than waxed, and makes a squeaking noise when the plaque has been cleaned from the teeth. There are also pre-

threaded flossers or floss holders that are good for people who have

limited mobility of the hands and arms, or for people just learning

how to floss. Floss threaders are good for patients who have retainer

bars attached to their teeth or patients that have a dental bridge or braces. Children should begin flossing as soon as they have two teeth that touch each other. A waterpick is often used in addition to flossing, but should not be used as a substitute because it does not remove plaque; it is just helpful for removing food from the teeth.

If you have any questions about your flossing routine, visit the Dentist San Francisco Mina Levi DDS on the web at www.minalevidds.com or give us a call at (415) 513-5066.

Topics: Dental Floss, Dentist San Francisco, Flossing Techniques, Toothbrush, Waterpick, Floss Threader, Pre-Threaded Floss

Snap-On Smile: Is it Right for Me?

Snap-On Smile: Is it Right for Me? 

By Mina Levi DDS, 01/16/2014

Aesthetics of the mouth and teeth can be a big deal issue for a lot of people, and some consider cosmetic treatment to fix unappealing areas. These treatments include Invisalign clear aligners, dental implants, porcelain veneers, dental bridges, dentures and more. For some people, a great solution is called the Snap-on Smile, but for others it may not be such a good choice. In this article, we review Snap-On Smile and who are good candidates for the treatment.

What is Snap-On-Smile?

Snap-On Smile is an affordable cosmetic solution that can be either temporary or permanent. Snap-On Smile is made from impressions of the individual’s own teeth to be able to “snap on” over the teeth and cover any aesthetically unappealing flaws. It is made from dental resin, which makes it thin but strong enough to eat and drink with.

The Snap-On Smile is great for patients who:

1. Have gaps or spacing between the teeth. Invisalign clear aligners are also great for this issue as well, but the Snap-on-Smile is a little more cost-effective.

2. Have overly-crowded teeth.

3. Have teeth that are shorter than usual.

4. Are waiting for implants to heal before the crown is placed.

5. Are looking for an alternative to old fashioned partial dentures.

The Snap-On Smile is not great for patient who:

1. Require a full mouth reconstruction.

2. Have compromised oral hygiene.

3. Have gum or periodontal disease.

4. Have a significant number of missing teeth.

5. Have bulky teeth.

If you have any questions or concerns, or would like to see if Snap-On Smile is right for you, visit the Dentist San Francisco Mina Levi DDS on the web atwww.minalevidds.com or give us a call at (415) 513-5066.

Topics: Snap-On Smile, Invisalign, Porcelain Veneers, Dental Bridges, Dental Implants, Teeth Gaps, Teeth Crowding

Pros and Cons of Cosmetic Bonding vs Porcelain Veneers

Pros and Cons of Cosmetic Bonding vs Porcelain Veneers

By Mina Levi DDS, 01/09/2014

Cosmetic dentistry is an option for those who are unhappy with the aesthetic aspects of their smile such as undersized teeth due to development issues (Peg Lateral Teeth), chipping, discoloration, and misalignment, amongst other issues. Cosmetic bonding and porcelain veneers have been available for a long time, giving people the beautiful smile they have always dreamed of. There are differences between bonding and veneers, though, and one option may be more suitable for you than the other. Below, we discuss the pros and cons of both cosmetic bonding and porcelain veneers.

Cosmetic Bonding

What is it?

Cosmetic bonding is the application of a composite material that is matched to tooth color (usually, Zoom whitening or at-home whitening kits are recommended before this procedure) to the surfaces of the teeth. This composite material is then sculpted into the shape that is so desired by the patient to achieve the highest aesthetic value.

Pros

1. Speedy Treatment Time. Cosmetic bonding does not involve any laboratory work, and can be performed usually with one dental office visit after the initial consultation unless the patient wants to whiten their teeth via the in-office Zoom procedure before the bonding takes place.

2. Relatively Low Cost per Tooth. The cost for cosmetic bonding is relatively low in comparison to porcelain veneers, about the same as a composite filling.

Cons

1. Staining. Unlike porcelain veneers, the composite material that is used in bonding is susceptible to staining by coffee, tea, and smoking.

2. Durability. Cosmetic bonding only can last between five to ten years, and then they will need to be replaced.

Porcelain Veneers

What are they?

Porcelain veneers are thin “shells” of porcelain fabricated in a laboratory that cover the front surfaces of the teeth. The teeth are prepared for the veneers, molded impressions of the teeth are then sent out to a laboratory so that the veneers can be made to fit the exact tooth structure. Then the veneers are applied to the teeth with an adhesive.

Pros

1. Realistic Look. Porcelain veneers are custom to each individual’s teeth and are made from a material that gives them a transparency, making them look almost identical to the natural tooth structure.

2. Stain Resistant. Porcelain veneers, unlike natural tooth structures and cosmetic bonding, are resistant to staining from coffee, tea and smoking. This makes it so that the patient can have more freedom in their diet and they will not have to worry about teeth whitening procedures.

3. Long Lasting. Depending on oral hygiene, porcelain veneers can last a lot longer than cosmetic bonding, decades if maintained properly.

Cons

1. More Procedural Work. The process to prepare the teeth, have the veneers made and then apply them to the natural teeth is a longer process than the cosmetic bonding, taking about three visits to the dental office in total with waiting periods in between in order for materials to be made and shipped.

2. Higher costs. Porcelain veneers are much pricier than the cosmetic bonding option, and are almost always considered a cosmetic procedure and thus are not covered by dental insurances.

If you wish to transform your smile cosmetically or have any questions or concerns regarding cosmetic bonding and porcelain veneers, visit the Dentist San Francisco Mina Levi DDS on the web at www.minalevidds.com or give us a call at (415) 513-5066.

Topics: Cosmetic Bonding, Dental Bonding, Porcelain Veneers, Zoom Whitening, Dentist San Francisco, Dental Office Visit, Teeth Staining, Cosmetic Procedures,Invisalign

New Years Resolutions for Your Mouth

New Year's Resolutions for Your Mouth

By Mina Levi, DDS 01/02/2014

As we kick off this New Year of 2014, many people will have New Year’s Resolutions involving their health such as “lose 10 pounds” or “eat healthier”. What some people will not think about though is to have New Year’s Resolutions for your mouth and oral health. Your smile goals as well as taking better care of your mouth and teeth are incredibly important, especially since your oral health is linked to your overall health. Below, we discuss five New Year’s Resolutions for your mouth and how you can accomplish them.

1. Whiter Smile. There are many ways to achieving a whiter smile this year. There is an at-home option where Dentist San Francisco Dr. Mina Leviwill make customized whitening trays and provide you with concentrated whitening gel. There is also the very popular Zoom whitening in-office procedure. This procedure takes about an hour in the dental office and can achieve up to eight shades whiter in just one sitting! There are also many foods that can help you whiten your teeth, see the article “How to Keep Teeth White Through the Holidays” for more details.

2. Straighten Teeth. Some people are embarrassed by or unhappy with teeth that are crooked or out of alignment. Invisalign clear alignment is an option for straightening teeth that is nearly invisible, comfortable and easily removable for eating and keeping up with oral hygiene.

3. Reduce Cavities. The first step toward this goal is to visit the dentist to see if you have any cavities or areas of concern. If the areas of concern are early stage cavities, then Icon: No Drilling resin infiltration may be right for you. Icon treats areas that are in an early stage to stop the cavity from progressing without drilling. If the area is a later stage cavity, however, a filling or crown may be necessary. Either way, it is essential that you get a diagnosis as soon as possible so that any unhealthy tooth structure can be removed or healed.

4. Follow a Stricter Oral Hygiene Regimen. Many people are pretty lax about their daily oral hygiene routine. Some brush well but do not floss while others only brush their teeth once per day. This at-home routine is essential to optimal oral health. It is recommended that the teeth are brushed at least twice daily and flossed at least once per day. Also, it is very important to see the dentist at least twice a year to have a check up and get a professional cleaning done. These professional cleanings remove plaque and tartar that is not able to be removed at home, and if avoided this plaque will begin to eat away at healthy tooth structure.

5. Heal Periodontitis. Periodontitis is an inflammation of the gums that has progressed from gingivitis from plaque build-up. The best ways to heal periodontitis and achieve optimal gum health is to have professional cleanings done more often than usual and keep a very strict oral hygiene regimen. There is also another option for advanced periodontitis cases called Perio Protect, which delivers medication directly to the gums using custom-made trays.

For more information regarding your own smile or oral health goals for 2014, visit Dentist San Francisco Mina Levi DDS on the web atwww.minalevidds.com or give us a call at (415) 513-5066. We wish you the best of luck in achieving your goals and wish you a Happy New Year!

Topics: New Year’s Resolutions, Oral Health, Teeth Whitening, Zoom Whitening, Cavities, Oral Hygiene,Icon, Perio Protect, Periodontitis, Gingivitis,Straighten Teeth, Invisalign, Dentist San Francisco