Author: admin4downtown

Having a bright, confident smile in San Diego is more than just a wish—it’s a lifestyle. At Downtown Dental Specialty, we understand the life-changing power of a healthy smile. That’s why we’re thrilled to offer cosmetic dentistry with dental crowns, a proven solution for anyone looking to enhance their smile’s beauty and functionality.

Whether you’re looking to correct imperfections or desire a brighter, more uniform smile, dental crowns offer a reliable and aesthetically pleasing solution. Embrace the opportunity to boost your confidence and enjoy the lasting benefits of a beautiful smile.

What is Cosmetic Dentistry with Dental Crowns?

Cosmetic dentistry encompasses a range of procedures designed to improve the appearance of your teeth, making your smile brighter and more aligned. Among these procedures, dental crowns stand out as a versatile option that enhances the aesthetic appeal of your smile and restores and strengthens your teeth.

Dental crowns are custom-made “caps” placed over a tooth to cover imperfections such as discoloration, cracks, or chips. Made from materials like porcelain or ceramic, these crowns are designed to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, offering a durable and aesthetically pleasing solution.

How Can Dental Crowns Enhance My Smile?

Dental crowns are like the Swiss Army knife of cosmetic dentistry—they come with a multitude of benefits tailored to meet various needs:

● Color Correction: Say goodbye to stubborn stains that whitening can’t fix. Dental crowns offer a fresh start with a shade that matches your ideal smile.
● Shape and Size Alteration: Whether it’s due to wear or genetics, if your teeth aren’t the shape or size you desire, crowns can sculpt your smile to perfection.
● Crack and Chip Repair: Turn back time on damaged teeth. Crowns restore integrity and aesthetics, making your teeth look and function like new.
● Gap Closure: In some cases, crowns can be used to bridge small gaps between teeth, contributing to a more uniform smile.

The Benefits of Dental Crowns

Beyond their cosmetic appeal, dental crowns bring a host of advantages that make them a popular choice among patients:

Durability: With proper care, dental crowns can last many years, making them a long-term investment in your smile.
Protection: Crowns protect weakened teeth from further damage, preserving oral health.
Improved Functionality: Restoring damaged teeth with crowns can improve your bite, making eating more comfortable and enjoyable.
Confidence Boost: A beautiful smile can significantly impact your self-esteem, positively influencing personal and professional interactions.

The Process of Getting Dental Crowns in San Diego

Getting a dental crown journey in San Diego involves a few key steps designed to ensure you receive care that’s as exceptional as the city itself.

1. Initial Consultation

Your adventure begins with a visit to Downtown Dental Specialty, where we discuss your goals and examine your teeth to determine if crowns are the best option for you. This step often involves taking X-rays to assess the health of your tooth’s root and surrounding bone.

2. Tooth Preparation

To make room for the crown, we carefully reshape your tooth. This process is done under local anesthesia, ensuring your comfort. An impression of your tooth is then taken to guide the creation of your custom crown.

3. Temporary Crown Placement

While your permanent crown is being crafted, a temporary crown is placed to protect your tooth. This allows you to continue enjoying your daily activities without interruption.

4. Permanent Crown Fitting

Once your crown is ready, you’ll return to our office for the final crown fitting. We ensure the crown fits perfectly and matches the color of your natural teeth before securely bonding it in place.

5. Aftercare Guidance

We provide aftercare instructions to help you care for your new crown, ensuring its longevity. This includes tips on brushing, flossing, and scheduling regular check-ups.

Start Your Dental Crown Journey Today

At Downtown Dental Specialty in San Diego, we’re passionate about helping you achieve the smile you’ve always dreamed of. With state-of-the-art technology and a team of skilled professionals, we’re prepared to guide you through enhancing your smile with dental crowns.

Ready to transform your smile? Contact us today to schedule your consultation and take the first step towards a more confident you. Let’s create a smile that shines as brightly as the San Diego sun!

Step into Downtown Dental Specialty in Downtown San Diego, which is leading the way in dental innovation. Our same-day dental implants are changing the game, providing a swift path to rejuvenated smiles and renewed confidence. Discover the transformative power of this advanced technology, offering you a complete dental health makeover in just one day!

What Are Same-Day Dental Implants, and How Do They Work?

Same-day dental implants are a revolutionary approach to replacing missing teeth because they offer a quicker and more convenient alternative to traditional implants. Traditionally, dental implant procedures could span several months, requiring multiple visits and a lengthy healing period between the implant placement and the attachment of the crown. However, same-day implants streamline this process.

Getting Same-Day Implants — The Procedure

Same-day dental implants at Downtown Dental Specialty involve a streamlined, efficient process that offers immediate results. The following steps outline the procedure from consultation to completion:

• Initial Consultation: Our dentist will thoroughly examine your oral health to determine if you are a suitable candidate for same-day implants. This may include digital X-rays and 3D imaging.
• Custom Treatment Plan: Based on the examination, a personalized treatment plan is devised to address your specific dental needs.
• Preparation: Any necessary dental work, such as extractions, is completed to prepare your mouth for the implants.
• Implant Placement: The dental implants are placed into the jawbone using precise, guided surgical techniques.
• Crown Attachment: Immediately following the implant placement, temporary crowns are placed, giving you functional and aesthetic teeth at the same visit.
• Follow-Up and Final Crowns: After a short healing period, you’ll return for a follow-up appointment to have your permanent crowns fitted, completing your smile transformation.

How Long Does It Take to Get Same-Day Dental Implants in San Diego?

At Downtown Dental Specialty in San Diego, the procedure for same-day dental implants is impressively swift. The entire process, from initial consultation to walking out with a new smile, can often be completed in just a single appointment.

The procedure typically takes a few hours, depending on the number of implants being placed and the patient’s specific needs. Our team uses advanced imaging and planning technologies to ensure precision and optimal outcomes, making your visit as smooth and comfortable as possible.

Are Same-Day Dental Implants Suitable for Everyone?

While same-day dental implants offer a fantastic solution for many, they may not be suitable for everyone. Ideal candidates for this procedure are those in good general and oral health, with sufficient jawbone density to support the implant.

During your initial consultation at Downtown Dental Specialty, our experts will conduct a thorough examination and discuss your medical history to determine if same-day implants are the best option for you. Factors such as gum disease, certain chronic conditions, and lifestyle choices like smoking can affect eligibility, but alternatives and preparatory treatments may be available to help you qualify.

What Is the Cost of Same-Day Dental Implants in San Diego?

The cost of same-day dental implants in San Diego can vary based on several factors, including the number of implants needed, the complexity of the case, and any additional procedures that may be required.

At Downtown Dental Specialty, we believe in transparent pricing and personalized care. We’ll provide you with a detailed cost breakdown during your consultation, ensuring you have all the information you need to make an informed decision. While same-day implants can be an investment, their durability, functionality, and immediate impact on your quality of life make them a valuable option for many patients.

Get Started on Your Dental Implant Journey Today

Getting a brighter, healthier smile with same-day dental implants starts with a simple step: reaching out to us at Downtown Dental Specialty in San Diego. Our team is here to guide you through the process, from the initial consultation to the moment you see your new smile for the first time.

Contact Downtown Dental Specialty today to schedule your consultation and discover if same-day dental implants are right for you. Let us help you take that life-changing step towards a happier, healthier you.

Welcome to Downtown Dental Specialty! We understand that gum disease and its treatment can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to understanding the various aspects and implications. That’s why we’ve gone the extra mile and compiled a comprehensive list of frequently asked questions to provide you with all the necessary information and guidance to navigate this topic with ease.

We aim to ensure that you clearly understand gum disease, its causes, symptoms, and the different treatment options available in San Diego, CA. Rest assured, our team is here to make sure you receive the best care in town.

What is Gum Disease, and What Causes It?

Gum disease, scientifically known as periodontal disease, is a chronic infection that affects the gums and underlying bone structure supporting the teeth. It’s caused by the buildup of plaque, a sticky substance that provides a breeding ground for harmful bacteria.

Factors like hormonal changes, inadequate oral hygiene, smoking, certain medications, and even genetic predisposition can also influence gum disease. By understanding the multifaceted nature of this condition, we can take proactive measures to prevent and treat this common oral health issue.

What are the Symptoms of Gum Disease?

Symptoms of gum disease can vary in severity and may include the following signs:

• Swollen or tender gums that may appear red or purple in color. A feeling of sensitivity or discomfort in the gum area can accompany this.
• Bleeding when brushing or flossing is common, and you may notice blood on your toothbrush or floss. This can occur even with gentle brushing or flossing.
• Persistent bad breath despite maintaining good oral hygiene practices. You may find that your breath does not improve even after brushing your teeth or using mouthwash.
• Receding gums can cause teeth to appear longer or feel more sensitive. You may also notice gaps forming between your teeth as the gums pull away.
• Changes in the way your teeth fit together when biting or chewing. This can lead to discomfort or difficulty in chewing certain foods, and you may notice a shift in your bite alignment.

It is important to note that these symptoms can vary from person to person, and it is always best to consult a dental professional if you suspect you may have gum disease.

How Can I Prevent Gum Disease?

Preventing gum disease involves good oral hygiene practices. Regular brushing and flossing can remove plaque from your teeth and prevent tartar buildup. Additionally, visiting our San Diego dentist for regular check-ups and professional cleanings can help identify early signs of gum disease and provide treatment before it progresses.

What are the Stages of Gum Disease?

Gum disease generally progresses in stages:

1. Gingivitis: This is the earliest stage, where your gums get inflamed due to plaque buildup. If you leave it untreated, it can cause redness, swelling, and bleeding. Remember to brush, floss, and get regular dental cleanings to keep gingivitis at bay.
2. Periodontitis: If gingivitis progresses, it becomes periodontitis. It’s more severe and creates pockets between your gums and teeth, leading to infection. Deep cleaning, rinses, and sometimes surgery are needed to manage periodontitis.
3. Advanced periodontitis: In this stage, the damage is extensive, causing gum recession, loose teeth, and bone deterioration. Treatment options may include scaling, grafts, or even tooth extraction. Don’t worry; tooth replacement options like dental implants are available, too!

Regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene practices are essential in preventing and managing gum disease at various stages.

What is the Link Between Gum Disease and Overall Health?

Research has consistently shown that gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, can significantly increase the risk of developing various health problems. These include not only heart disease, diabetes, respiratory diseases, and preterm birth but also stroke, certain types of cancer, and even Alzheimer’s disease.

Maintaining good oral hygiene and seeking timely treatment for gum disease is important. By doing so, we can preserve our dental health and safeguard our systemic well-being. Let’s take care of our oral health for a healthier life!

Gum Disease Treatment at Downtown Dental Specialty

At Downtown Dental Specialty, we offer comprehensive gum disease treatment options tailored to each patient’s needs and the severity of their condition. Our treatments range from non-surgical therapies that control bacterial growth to surgical procedures to restore supportive tissues.

Contact Us Today

Don’t hesitate to reach out if you’re concerned about gum disease. Downtown Dental Specialty in San Diego is committed to providing exceptional dental care in a welcoming environment. Contact us today to schedule your consultation. Together, we can help you maintain a healthy smile for life!

Root canal treatment is often associated with apprehension and anxiety, but it’s a common, painless dental procedure that can save your natural teeth and prevent the need for dental implants or bridges. Downtown Dental Specialty in San Diego provides quality root canal treatments to alleviate pain and restore oral health.

What is Root Canal Treatment in San Diego?

A root canal is a dental procedure performed to address issues with the infected or inflamed pulp tissue inside a tooth. During the procedure, the dentist carefully removes the affected pulp, thoroughly cleans and disinfects the area, and then fills and seals it.

This treatment not only saves the tooth from extraction but also alleviates the discomfort caused by the infection of the pulp. By preserving the natural tooth structure, a root canal allows for continued functionality and a healthier oral environment.

Is Tooth Sensitivity Always a Sign of Needing a Root Canal?

Tooth sensitivity is a prevalent dental complaint that can have various causes. It is not always an indication of requiring a root canal. However, if you experience prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold foods and drinks, which persists even after the temperature stimulus is gone, it could be a sign of a deeper issue. This may include an inflamed or infected pulp, which might require a root canal procedure for proper treatment and relief.

What Causes a Dental Abscess, and Why is it a Sign of Needing a Root Canal?

A dental abscess is a pocket of pus caused by a bacterial infection, often at the tip of the tooth root. It usually results from severe tooth decay, gum disease, or a cracked tooth. These conditions can allow bacteria to enter the pulp (the nerve of the tooth), leading to infection and abscess formation. As the infection can spread into the surrounding tissues and cause serious health complications, a root canal is typically recommended to treat the abscess and save the tooth as soon as possible.

Can a Cracked or Broken Tooth be a Reason for Needing a Root Canal?

Yes, a cracked or broken tooth can sometimes require a root canal. If the crack or breakage is extensive enough to expose the tooth’s pulp, bacteria can infiltrate and cause an infection. In these cases, a root canal treatment may be required to remove the infected pulp and save the tooth.

How Can I Find a Reputable Endodontist for a Root Canal in San Diego?

When it comes to finding a reputable endodontist for a root canal in San Diego, consider the following:

• Start by asking your general dentist for referrals to reputable endodontists in your area. Your dentist is likely to have a network of trusted specialists they can recommend.
• Take the time to check online reviews and ratings from other patients to get a sense of their satisfaction with the endodontists you are considering. This can provide valuable insights into the quality of care and service they provide.
• Verify the qualifications of the endodontists you are interested in. Look for board certification, which indicates that they have met rigorous standards in their field. Additionally, consider their training and any specialized expertise they may have.
• For a deeper look, visit the practice in person and evaluate the office’s reviews. This will allow you to gauge the environment and cleanliness of the office, as well as the professionalism and friendliness of the staff. It’s important to feel comfortable and confident in your choice of an endodontist.

At Downtown Dental Specialty, our team of professionals is here to provide you with quality care and make your root canal procedure as comfortable as possible.

Reserve Your Appointment

You might need a root canal if you’re experiencing prolonged tooth sensitivity, have a dental abscess, or have a cracked or broken tooth. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us at Downtown Dental Specialty in San Diego. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.

A beautiful smile can make a world of difference to your confidence and self-esteem. At Downtown Dental Specialty, we believe everyone should be able to smile freely and confidently. That’s why we offer a same-day tooth replacement service right here in San Diego, CA.

Why Should You Replace Your Missing Teeth?

Missing teeth are a cosmetic concern and a potential gateway to a range of oral health problems. When a tooth is missing, the gap it leaves behind can disrupt the alignment of neighboring teeth, leading to bite problems and challenges with chewing. Furthermore, the absence of a tooth can trigger bone loss in the jaw, gradually altering the contours of your face. By promptly replacing missing teeth, you can effectively avert these issues and ensure the longevity of a healthy, functional smile for years to come. Don’t delay seeking appropriate dental solutions to maintain optimal oral health and well-being.

San Diego Immediate Replacement Teeth

At Downtown Dental Specialty, we are proud to be a trusted dental practice for same-day tooth replacement in San Diego. Our team of experienced professionals uses cutting-edge technology to provide you with high-quality, custom-made replacement teeth in a single visit.

Our immediate replacement teeth look and function just like natural teeth, allowing you to eat, speak, and smile confidently. Whether you’re missing one tooth or several, we can provide a solution that meets your needs and fits seamlessly with your existing teeth.

Same-Day Teeth —The Procedure

The process for same-day tooth replacement at our practice involves several steps, ensuring a seamless and efficient experience for our patients.

First, our dentist will begin by taking precise digital images of your mouth, capturing every detail to create a 3D model of your teeth and jaw.

Once the 3D model is created, our team will design a replacement tooth that seamlessly blends in with your natural teeth. Taking into consideration factors such as size, shape, and color, we will craft a custom-made tooth that perfectly matches your existing smile.

Then, we will prepare your mouth for the new tooth. This may involve the extraction of a damaged tooth, if necessary, to create space and promote proper alignment for the replacement tooth.

After preparation, our skilled dentist will place the replacement tooth using a unique bonding adhesive that provides a secure and durable bond. This ensures that your new tooth stays firmly in place.

At our practice, we are committed to providing our patients with exceptional results. Our same-day tooth replacement process combines cutting-edge technology, meticulous planning, and expert craftsmanship to deliver outstanding outcomes and a smile you can be proud of.

Caring for Your New Tooth

After receiving your same-day tooth replacement, it’s important to take good care of your new tooth to ensure its longevity. This involves maintaining good oral hygiene habits, including brushing twice a day and flossing daily. Regular dental check-ups are also crucial, as they allow us to monitor your oral health and ensure your replacement tooth functions properly.

While same-day teeth are designed to be durable, they can still be damaged by hard or sticky foods. Therefore, you should avoid such foods, especially in the first few days after getting your new tooth. With proper care, your same-day tooth can last for many years, giving you a confident and healthy smile.

Reserve Your Visit Today

Are you ready to restore your smile with our same-day tooth replacement service? Contact Downtown Dental Specialty today to schedule your visit. Our team is ready to help you smile confidently again.

We look forward to welcoming you to our practice and helping you achieve your best smile.

Downtown Dental Specialty in San Diego offers custom, fixed dental bridges for our patients who need to replace their missing teeth. Although bridges have been used for years, they continue to provide important benefits and newer modifications, expanding the level of care we’re able to provide our patients.

What is a Dental Crown?

 

Before we explain what a dental bridge is, it’s essential to understand the role of dental crowns. A dental crown is a custom-made cover that is placed over a damaged or weakened tooth to restore its strength and appearance. When it comes to bridges, the end of these multi-tooth restorations essentially consists of a crown. These crowns serve as sturdy anchors for the bridge, attaching it to the adjacent teeth or even a dental implant on each side. Then an artificial crown called a “pontic” is fused between them, creating a solid prosthesis that “bridges” the open space in your smile.

What is a Dental Bridge?

 

A dental bridge is a restoration used to replace a missing tooth. The ends act as functional crowns for stability (but they can also reinforce the supporting teeth), and false crowns/pontics are fused between them.

The purpose of a dental bridge goes beyond filling in the gap created by missing teeth. It also helps to:

• Restore your ability to chew properly
• Support your soft facial tissues
• Distribute the forces in your bite evenly across your mouth
• Prevent your adjacent teeth from shifting out of position
• Prevent the opposing tooth from “super erupting”

Can Dental Bridges Improve My Smile?

 

Absolutely! Dental bridges offer both functional and cosmetic enhancements, improving the aesthetics of your smile as they replace missing teeth. Whether it’s a single tooth or several, a well-crafted dental bridge can seamlessly blend in with your neighboring teeth, giving you a beautiful and complete smile.

Since each of our bridges is crafted from durable ceramic or porcelain materials, we can specify the shade of each tooth, as well as the contour and size. This allows your fixed restoration to look as natural as possible.

At Downtown Dental Specialty, we take pride in our ability to create dental bridges that not only restore functionality but also enhance the = beauty of your smile. Our San Diego dentists will work closely with you to ensure that the color, shape, and size of your bridge match your existing teeth, providing a harmonious and natural appearance.

Can I Eat Normally with a Dental Bridge?

 

One of the most significant advantages of dental bridges is their ability to restore your ability to eat and chew normally. Missing teeth can make it challenging to bite into certain foods, affecting your nutritional intake. Bridges are just as durable as crowns, so you can continue to enjoy most of your favorite meals.

However, we do recommend that you avoid biting into extremely hard or sticky foods, as these can potentially damage the bridge or cause it to come loose. You’ll also want to clean around your bridge each day with a water flosser or traditional floss to

Can Dental Bridges Be Combined with Other Dental Treatments?

 

Dental bridges can often be combined with other dental treatments to achieve comprehensive results. Particularly dental implants. Downtown Dental Specialty frequently pairs implants together to support multi-tooth dental bridges. These designs can eliminate the need for wearing a removable partial denture. There are even wider types of prosthesis designs anchored onto sets of 4-6 implants, creating a hybrid type of extended bridge/denture to restore an entire set of upper or lower teeth.

Schedule Your Appointment Today

 

Now that you have a better understanding of what to expect during a dental bridge placement, why not take the next step toward improving your smile and overall oral health? Downtown Dental Specialty in San Diego is committed to providing you with the highest level of care.

Contact our office today to discuss your tooth replacement options. A healthier, happier you is just around the corner!

With the advancement of modern dental restorations and state-of-the-art materials, today’s dental crowns continue to serve as versatile treatments. Crowns—which cover the visible portion of teeth above the gingival tissue—offer both functional and aesthetic benefits. Downtown Dental Specialty takes pride in providing various dental crown designs, including porcelain, zirconia, and ceramic, to fit the diverse needs of our patients.

What is a Dental Crown?

 

A dental crown is a prosthetic “cap” that completely encases a structurally damaged or weak tooth, restoring its normal function, strength, and appearance. Crowns are typically tailored by hand to match the color, shape, and size of the natural tooth, seamlessly blending into your smile. Today, technology also allows crowns to be milled digitally while you wait. With so many types of crowns available, it can feel a little overwhelming to pick the best one for your needs. Thankfully, our San Diego dentists can help with the process!

Why are Crowns Beneficial?

 

Dental crowns offer several important benefits, including:

• Enhanced Protection: Crowns provide a sturdy reinforcement for compromised teeth, preventing further damage during everyday use.
• Improved Aesthetics: Tooth-colored crowns not only safeguard teeth but also enhance their appearance, concealing discoloration, cracks, and irregularities.
• Restored Functionality: By recreating the structure of a tooth, crowns enable normal chewing, speaking, and biting.
• Longevity: High-quality dental crowns, with proper care, can last several years or more, ensuring long-term benefits.

Exploring Dental Crown Materials: Porcelain, Metal, and Ceramic

 

Downtown Dental Specialty offers an array of dental crown materials, each tailored to meet the unique needs and preferences of patients. Some of the most common types of crowns you’ll see offered in San Diego include traditional designs like:

Porcelain Crowns: Renowned for their lifelike appearance, porcelain crowns boast exceptional translucency and can be precisely matched to the color of surrounding teeth. These crowns are an ideal choice for front teeth, where aesthetics take center stage.

Metal Crowns: Constructed from alloys like gold, metal crowns are lauded for their unparalleled strength and durability. While they may not blend seamlessly with natural teeth, their resiliency makes them an excellent choice for back teeth that endure heavy chewing forces

Zirconia Crowns: Striking a balance between aesthetics and strength, zirconia is a type of ceramic crown that combines natural appearance with remarkable durability. Their composition closely mimics that of natural teeth, ensuring a harmonious integration within the smile. This makes them a preferred choice for both front and back teeth.

The Dental Crown Procedure: Time and Cost

 

The dental crown procedure is typically completed over two appointments:

First Appointment: During this visit, our San Diego dentist prepares the tooth by removing any decay or damaged enamel and reshaping it to accommodate the crown. An impression is taken, which is used as the blueprint for crafting your custom crown. A temporary crown is placed to protect the tooth until the final crown is ready.

Second Appointment: Once the customized crown is crafted, we remove your temporary crown and bond the final one into place with special dental cement.

As for the cost of dental crowns in San Diego, it can vary based on the material used. Downtown Dental Specialty provides personalized consultations to offer patients accurate cost estimates tailored to their specific needs.

Caring for Your Dental Crown

 

Maintaining a dental crown necessitates diligent oral hygiene practices. Treat your crown like a natural tooth, brushing twice daily and flossing to remove plaque and prevent decay at the gum line. While crowns are sturdy, avoid habits like biting on hard objects or opening packages with your teeth. Also, plan to see us for routine checkups so that we can evaluate your crown and other teeth, intervening when issues arise.

Schedule Your Dental Crown Consultation Today

 

At Downtown Dental Specialty in San Diego, CA, we are committed to transforming smiles through custom-crafted dental crowns that fit your smile goals. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and embark on a journey to a healthier, more radiant smile.

Welcome to Downtown Dental Specialty in San Diego! Your oral health is our priority, and we are delighted to bring you valuable insights on periodontal maintenance – an essential aspect of your smile’s long-term care. If you’re concerned about your gum health or have a history of periodontal disease, the maintenance process is essential for keeping your smile healthy. Particularly after you’ve completed your deep cleaning.

What are the Symptoms of Periodontal Disease?

Periodontal disease, commonly known as gum disease, can manifest in various ways. If you experience any of the following symptoms, it’s crucial to seek professional dental care:

Bleeding Gums: One of the earliest signs of periodontal disease is bleeding gums, particularly during brushing or flossing.

Persistent Bad Breath: Unpleasant breath that does not improve with regular oral hygiene might indicate an underlying gum infection.

Receding Gums: As gum disease progresses, you may notice your gums pulling away from the teeth, making them appear longer.

Loose or Shifting Teeth: Advanced gum disease can lead to tooth instability, causing teeth to feel loose or shift in position.

Swollen and Tender Gums: Inflamed gums that are sensitive to touch can be a sign of an ongoing gum infection.

How is Periodontal Disease Diagnosed?

Early detection of periodontal disease is vital for successful management. During your regular dental check-ups, our skilled team will perform a comprehensive examination to assess the health of your gums. We will use special diagnostic methods such as periodontal probing, where a tiny measuring instrument is used to measure the depth of spaces between your gums and teeth. Deeper pockets may indicate gum disease. We’ll also use X-rays to help us evaluate the condition of the bone supporting your teeth and identify any bone loss due to gum disease.

What Causes Periodontal Disease?

Periodontal disease is typically the result of inadequate oral hygiene (particularly flossing), a lack of preventative dental cleanings, and the buildup of plaque and tartar on the roots of teeth. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth and gums. When not removed regularly through proper brushing and flossing, plaque hardens into tartar, which can only be removed by a dental professional. As the tartar builds up along the gumline, it gradually works its way down under the gum tissues and across the surfaces of the tooth roots. This causes the gums to pull away and damages the adjacent bone structure, creating “pockets” around the roots of your teeth. 

The prescribed treatment for periodontal infections is scaling and root planing—also known as a deep cleaning—to establish a clean environment that you can then work to maintain, with the goal of preventing disease relapse.

What is Scaling and Root Planing?

Scaling and root planing (“deep cleanings”) are a non-surgical procedure that is highly effective in treating early to moderate stages of periodontal disease. During your deep cleaning, our skilled dental hygienists will use specialized tools to remove plaque and tartar from the surfaces of your teeth and beneath your gumline. Root planing focuses on smoothing the root surfaces of your teeth to prevent bacteria from re-accumulating and help your gums reattach firmly to the teeth.

Periodontal Maintenance

After your deep cleaning, the next phase of your smile’s health will be to maintain the current health status and prevent disease relapse. This maintenance phase typically includes semi-frequent dental cleanings, usually scheduled every 3-4 months. Our hygienist will use special instruments to clean your periodontal pockets and the rest of your mouth like you’d expect during a typical preventative cleaning. The only difference is that we’re particularly focused on the areas around your root surfaces, to prevent disease relapse. Your dental cleanings will usually continue to be periodontal maintenance visits for the duration of your care.

Call Us To Schedule Your Visit 

Your oral health is too important to neglect. Especially given the fact that gum disease can put you at an increased risk of major medical conditions. If you have symptoms of periodontal disease or heavy tartar buildup on your teeth, call Downtown Dental Specialty in San Diego. Our caring team is dedicated to providing exceptional periodontal maintenance and oral health care to keep your smile healthy and vibrant.

You’ve probably heard a lot of myths surrounding root canal treatment. Fortunately, with the right San Diego dentist, by your side, the process can be smooth and comfortable. If need endodontic therapy in the San Diego area, it’s essential for you to choose a dentist who is experienced, knowledgeable, and caring. At Downtown Dental Specialty, we understand the importance great, comfortable care with a team you can trust.

Choosing the right dentist for your root canal treatment is the best way to ensure a positive experience (and successful outcome.) At Downtown Dental, we pride ourselves on putting patients first. If you need endodontic treatment or have an abscessed tooth, you can feel confident knowing that we’ll care for you the same way we would one of our own family members.

What is Root Canal Treatment? 

Root canal treatment is a restorative procedure that allows us to save a tooth that has become infected or severely decayed. Without this treatment, the tooth would likely need to be extracted. During endodontic therapy, our San Diego dentist removes the infected pulp from inside the tooth’s hollow, inner canal, then cleans and disinfects the open chamber. After that, we seal it off to prevent further infection. This treatment allows you to preserve your natural tooth for several more years. After the root canal, we also recommend placing a crown over the non-vital tooth to help prevent any premature wear or breakage.

Benefits of Root Canal Treatment 

Root canal treatment offers several benefits. First and foremost, it eliminates the pain and discomfort caused by an infected tooth. By addressing the infection, you can regain the functionality and comfort of your natural smile without having to worry about tooth loss. Additionally, root canal treatment helps prevent the need for more extensive dental work in the future, such as an extraction followed by dental implant placement.

What to Expect When Getting a Root Canal 

The root canal procedure typically involves the following steps:

1. Examination and Diagnosis: Our dentist will examine your tooth and may take an X-ray to determine the extent of the infection.
2. Anesthesia: Local anesthesia will be administered to numb the area around the tooth, ensuring a painless experience during the procedure.
3. Removal of Infected Pulp: We will create a small access pint in the top of the tooth and remove the infected pulp from inside of it.
4. Cleaning and Disinfection: The root canal chamber is thoroughly cleaned and disinfected to remove any bacteria or residual debris.
5. Filling and Sealing: Next, we fill the root canal with a biocompatible material that seals the chamber off to prevent reinfection.
6. Restoration: In most cases, a dental crown is placed over the treated tooth to provide strength and protection.

How Long Does a Root Canal Treatment Take? 

The duration of a root canal treatment in San Diego can vary depending on the complexity of the case (some teeth have more roots than others, requiring additional treatment time.) In general, the procedure can be completed in one or two visits, with each appointment lasting about 60 to 90 minutes. However, we will provide you with a more accurate estimate based on your specific situation.

Alternatives to Root Canals in San Diego 

In some cases, a root canal may not be the best treatment option. We will carefully evaluate your dental needs and recommend the most appropriate alternative if applicable. These alternatives may include an extraction followed by dental implants, bridges, or other tooth replacement options. It’s important to have a thorough consultation with a qualified root canal dentist to explore all available options and make an informed decision.

Schedule a Consultation Today

If you need gentle root canal treatment in San Diego, don’t hesitate to schedule a consultation with Downtown Dental today. Our knowledgeable team is happy to answer any questions that you have. Contact us now to take the first step towards a healthier, pain-free smile.