Pasadena Endodontics
Saving a Lost Tooth After an Accident
Losing a permanent tooth can be traumatic for anyone; however, knowing what to do should it happen may enable you to save the tooth. The clock starts ticking from the moment the tooth is lost. It has the best chance for survival if it is re-implanted as soon as possible, preferably within 5 minutes. Start looking for the missing tooth immediately. Once found, rinse the tooth with water, but do not scrub it. Next and if possible, gently re-implant the tooth into its socket prior to rushing to our office or hospital. If you’re too nervous to re-implant it, transport the tooth in water or milk. If the patient is age appropriate and is thinking clearly, the preferred option is to put it in the patient’s mouth between the gum and cheek (the preferred option). And lastly, contact our office or medical facility en route to ensure a doctor is ready to treat the oral trauma.
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May 7th, 2014
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Tags: baseball, endodontic therapy, endodontic treatment, endodontics, endodontist, lingering pain, pain, severe pressure, sports, sports injury
What Do You Do About a Severe Toothache
Anytime you have a toothache, the first thing most people do is reach for an over-the-counter (OTC) pain reliever. While this may provide some temporary relief, to discover the cause of your toothache and the right treatment, you will need to see our office to determine the exact cause of your pain. Specifically, it must be determined whether the pain due to decay or trauma to a tooth involving the central pulp tissue containing the nerve—the most common cause for severe toothache. This will require endodontic (“endo” = inside, “dont” = tooth) treatment or what is commonly referred to as a root canal treatment, which will remove the pain and allow you to keep the tooth.
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Apr 23rd, 2014
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Tags: central pulp tissues, Endodontic, endodontic therapy, endodontic treatment, endodontics, root canal, root canal therapies, root canal treatment, root canal treatments, root canals
What to Do if You Have Sensitive Teeth
If you have one or more teeth that are sensitive to hot and cold, the first thing you need to do is have an evaluation to determine the cause. Tooth sensitivity is largely caused by exposure of a tooth’s dentin, the living tissue making up the body of the tooth. When exposed—most often from gum recession—the dentin, which contains nerve fibers, responds to heat, cold, or even touch with varying degrees of sensitivity. This can range from a slight twinge to downright excruciating pain for some people. On a positive note, as you age, your teeth tend to become naturally less sensitive.
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Apr 9th, 2014
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The Truth About Root Canal Treatment
Does the thought that you may need root canal treatment send shivers up your spine? Do you have the idea that it’s a painful and complicated procedure that is best avoided? If so, it’s time to think again. While an infection or inflammation in your tooth’s pulp tissue can indeed cause severe pain, you should remember that root canal treatment relieves this pain — it doesn’t cause it!
What is a root canal? It’s a series of tiny, branching, river-like chambers found deep inside the roots of your teeth, which contain the nerve, or pulp, tissue. It’s also a shorthand name for the dental procedure in which inflamed pulp tissue is removed, and the affected tooth is cleaned, disinfected and sealed. This treatment can put an end to the pain-causing inflammation and infection, and help prevent the tooth from being lost.
So, is this routine procedure exceptionally painful? The answer is no — it’s generally no more uncomfortable than having a filling. And just like a filling, it begins with an anesthetic to numb the area under treatment. At that point, for many people, the worst is already over. To restore the tooth’s appearance and function after a root canal procedure, it’s usually necessary for a crown or another type of restoration to be placed on it.
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Mar 26th, 2014
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Addressing Those Common Concerns About Root Canals
Given most people have heard the expression, “I’d rather have a root canal” used to describe a situation they want to avoid, this treatment option has gotten a bad reputation. The reality of root canal treatment is that it is a relatively simple and painless procedure — unlike the tremendous pain and suffering people endure prior to treatment. Our office will perform this necessary endodontic treatment (“endo” – inside; “dont” – tooth), when the inside or pulp of a tooth becomes inflamed or infected. The procedure involves making a small opening in the chewing surface of your tooth to gain access to the pulp, the nerves and blood vessels that keep the tooth alive. Once accessed, we will remove the dead and dying tissue before cleaning and filling the root canal(s).
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Mar 12th, 2014
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Three Signs You May Be in Need of Endodontic Treatment
Most likely, you have heard of root canal therapy, also known as endodontic treatment. You may also know that this treatment can save your natural teeth to avoid the need for dental implants or bridges. We love saving teeth! When the tooth’s pulp is infected, we can go in and remove it to avoid further decay. If you are experiencing the most common symptoms, your general dentist will likely recommend non-surgical endodontic treatment with our practice. So what are the symptoms that indicate you may need root canal therapy?
Common Symptoms That May Indicate You Need Endodontic Treatment:
- Sharp pain while chewing. This type of sharp pain while eating can be an indicator of a few different problems that may have led to an infection. Tooth pain while chewing most likely means there is tooth decay or a cracked tooth, both of which can open up pathways for bacteria to infect the tooth’s pulp. If this has happened, you will most likely need root canal therapy.
- Sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures. If exposing your teeth to hot and cold substances (such as hot coffee or ice cream) causes a lingering pain, it could be the result of an infected or cracked tooth. This, of course, would require endodontic therapy to restore health.
- Swollen, painful gums. Symptoms that occur in the gums often point to an abscessed tooth, which means the infection is located between the gums and the tooth itself. This type of infection can easily spread to the surrounding bone and gum tissue and sometimes require endodontic therapy as part of the treatment plan.
Schedule an Appointment With Us
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, call us immediately. However, these are only some of the most common symptoms; yours could differ. The only way to know for sure is by seeing a board certified endodontist who can give you an accurate diagnosis. Call us to schedule an appointment today.
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Feb 26th, 2014
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Serving Patients with Special Needs
Dr. Safa is committed to making endodontic care available for all patients who need it, regardless of special healthcare needs. Patients with special needs include the elderly, those with limited mobility, mentally disabled individuals, immunocomprimised people and those with mental illness. Specific diseases that can frequently hinder proper dental care include autism, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, Cerebral Palsy, Multiple Sclerosis and Down syndrome.
Often times, these individuals have higher rates or poor hygiene, which leads to greater incidence of gingivitis, periodontitis and dental caries. These conditions can sometimes require root canal therapy to save the patient’s tooth. While treating a patient with special needs, we strive to ensure:
– A friendly and comfortable environment
– Sensitivity and compassion from team members
– Predictable experiences at each appointment
Our team posses the compassion and understanding that is imperative when caring for a special needs patient. Some cases involving severe disabilities may require specialized equipment and general anesthesia. We realize that each individual with special needs is a unique case and will require different systems and skills to properly treat. We are confidant we can provide competent care for the majority of patients who are labeled as special needs.
For patients who are specifically incapable of ideal hygiene, it is essential that the people in daily contact with them become involved in their oral healthcare requirements. If you are a caregiver for a patient with special needs, the best course of action to determine if we can offer treatment is to call our office with any questions and possibly reserve an appointment to tour our facilities. If more complex oral care is required, we will refer you to the appropriate specialist who also works with the special needs population.
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Jan 29th, 2014
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Tags: dental care, Dr Safa, endodontics, special needs
Bruxism is a Real Grind
Bruxism is the technical name for grinding, gnashing, and/or clenching your teeth. It is considered a para-functional activity, which means an abnormal or deviated dental function or habit that is subconscious. The term Bruxism comes from the Greek word “brygmós” which means “to grind or gnash the opposing rows of upper and lower molar teeth”.
On average, your upper and lower teeth come into direct contact for about 20 minutes a day, with only 20-40 pounds of pressure. People who suffer with Bruxism’s upper and lower teeth come into direct contact for as long as 40 minutes per hour, with a force of about 250 pounds!
The grinding, gnashing and/or clenching mainly occur unconsciously; in most cases while you’re asleep. In more severe cases, some people find themselves clenching during the day as well. If you catch yourself clenching be sure to stop and stretch your jaw – move your lower jaw back and forth in a circular motion, changing rotation. Hearing popping or clicking noises is fairly common in people with Bruxism, so be sure to inform us if this occurs as it can indicate Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJ) as well as Bruxism.
Bruxism can cause your teeth to become worn down, fractured, and/or chipped. It can also wear down your tooth enamel, leading to increased tooth sensitivity and susceptibility to cavities. Not only does it deteriorate your teeth, it can also cause headaches, earaches, chronic facial pain, and jaw tension.
You should make an appointment with us if you’re experiencing a combination of any of the following issues:
Symptoms of Bruxism
- Grinding sound at night
- Dull headache in the morning
- Facial Pain
- Tight or painful jaw muscles, especially in the morning
- Worn down, flattened, fractured, or chipped teeth
- Tired jaw muscles
- Anxiety, stress and tension
- Depression
- Earache
- Eating disorders
- Headaches
- Hot, cold, and/or sweet tooth sensitivity
- Insomnia
- Painful, sore jaw
Possible Causes of Bruxism
Because the origin of Bruxism is not completely understood, any number of the following items may be possible causes:
- Experienced and anticipated stressors are considered a main factor. People who are stressed often carry tension with them to bed, causing them to grind, gnash and clench at night
- Suppressed anger, frustration, and aggression
- Misaligned upper and lower teeth (malocclusion). The verdict is still out as to why malocclusion is such a common component with Bruxism, but doctors have found that it is prevalent amongst sufferers
- People with depressive and anxiety disorders are more likely to suffer from Bruxism
- Bruxism is an uncommon side effect of certain psychiatric medications, such as antidepressants
- Often Bruxism is partnered with other sleeping disorders, such as insomnia, sleep walking, and nightmares
- Bruxism can be a result of complications from a disorder such as Huntington’s disease or Parkinson’s disease
- Stimulating substances such as smoking tobacco, drinking caffeinated beverages and/or alcohol, taking illegal drugs such as methamphetamines and ecstasy also increases the risk of Bruxism
- Age – Bruxism is common in children, but typically goes away by adolescence (See below for Bruxism in Children)
Other things such as diet, your ability to relax, low pH levels (high acidity), posture, and sleeping habits may also be contributors.
It is best to speak with Dr. Safa to determine the possible causes of Bruxism for you, and the best way to treat it.
Children with Bruxism
According to experts, two to three out of every ten children will grind or clench their teeth. While most children will outgrow this, it is important to cover both the physical and potentially psychological factors that can cause Bruxism.
Bruxism in children is often a response to the pain caused by teething or an earache. As with adults, it is also linked to the abnormal alignment of the top and bottom teeth.
With children, Bruxism can be an early warning sign of both experienced and anticipated stress. It has become more common for children with Bruxism to regularly see their doctor, as well as to receive psychological treatment, such as counseling, to help alleviate stressors.
Medical conditions such as cerebral palsy and Parkinson’s disease can also cause a child to clench and/or grind. Hyperactive children (ADHD) commonly experience Bruxism as well.
Working with Dr. Safa to establish care for your child with Bruxism will help create better habits and give you practical solutions so that your child can live clench/grind free. Please feel free to call our office to make an appointment if you think you or your child might be experiencing Bruxism.
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Jan 8th, 2014
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Bacteria’s Great Odyssey to The Pulp
If a tooth’s pulp, the innermost layer, becomes infected it is in grave danger. Most likely, your general dentist will refer you to our office for intervention. Without treatment, the tooth can die and fall out. So how does a tooth reach this ruinous point? In this blog post, we will examine bacteria’s journey to infection of the pulp.
Bacteria Packs its Bags, Forms Plaque
As we all know, certain bacteria found in the mouth can cause serious problems. These harmful residents are gluttons for the lingering sugar in your mouth and produce an acid byproduct that strips enamel and weakens teeth.
Bacteria Makes Friends With Common Goals: Tooth Decay
Bacteria then groups together to form plaque (a clear, sticky film) and tartar (hardened plaque) which will adhere to teeth in the absence of proper hygiene habits. Beyond their sticking power, these substances allow bacteria to dwell in one area so all the damage they do is very concentrated. Accordingly, tooth decay in these areas can occur rapidly, causing a cavity.
Post-Cavity Voyage
When a cavity develops, the best treatment is to place a dental filling as soon as possible. If the cavity is left unattended to, decay continues. These bacteria burrow even deeper into the tooth until they access the tooth’s pulp. At this point the bacteria causes an infection with the power to kill the tooth. This infection can even spread into the jaw, mouth and rest of the body.
Bacteria Meets Its Final Destiny in Our Office
Thankfully, this infection spread can be halted with endodontic treatment in our office. Root canal therapy removes the infected pulp and fills the tooth to prevent further infection and decay. If you suspect you have bacteria embarking on the journey described above, schedule an appointment as soon as possible. As with all ailments, early diagnosis is your best course of action.
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Dec 25th, 2013
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Tags: dental bacteria, dental cavities, dental plaque, Dr Safa, oral health, oral hygiene, tartar, tooth decay
All Oral Bacteria are Not Equal
The mouth harbors a diverse and plentiful and microbial community due to its hospitable environment. It is warm, nutrient-rich and maintains an ideal pH balance. This highly diverse microflora inhabits the various surfaces of the normal mouth- gums, teeth, tongue, cheeks. What many people don’t realize is that most of the bacteria are beneficial organisms and live in harmony with each other and the human body.
The “Bad Guys” of Dental Bacteria
Interestingly, a new born baby’s mouth does not contain bacteria, but becomes colonized rapidly in the early stages of life. Nobody knows for sure how many different bacteria species there are. Estimates in the oral cavity alone vary between 500 to 650 different species. Only a few specific species are believed to cause dental caries, including Steptococcus mutans, considered the most important bacteria involved with tooth decay. However, the type of bacteria varies according to the progress of tooth destruction.
This harmful bacteria collects around the teeth and gums forming a sticky, creamy-colored mass called plaque. Some areas of the mouth collect plaque more commonly due to less salivary flow, such as grooves in molars and between teeth. The oral cavity actually contains the only known part of the human body that does not have a regulated system of shedding surfaces: the teeth. This allows plaque to adhere to the surface of teeth for long periods of time. At first, plaque is soft enough to come off easily with a toothbrush. However, it starts to harden within 48 hours. After about 10 days, the plaque becomes dental calculus, called tarter, and is now difficult to remove.
Villlains Love Carbohydrates
Sugars from candy, soft drinks, and fruit juice can play a significant role in tooth decay. When sucrose (table sugar), the most common of sugars, coats the surface of the mouth, some intraoral bacteria interact with it. The result is lactic acid, which decreases the pH in the mouth. This demineralization allows for greater bacterial invasion deep into the tooth.
Cariogenicity, or the extent to which tooth decay is likely, depends heavily on how long the sugar remains in the mouth. Surprisingly, it is not the amount of sugar ingested but the frequency of sugar ingestion that is the most important factor in tooth decay.
Bacteria’s Kryptonite
Oral hygiene is key to battling the bacteria “bad guys”. Brushing your teeth twice a day will reduce dental plaque and food particles collecting around your teeth. Additionally, it is imperative to floss daily to wipe all your enamel surfaces free of plaque to discourage bacterial growth. Good general oral-health habits can usually prevent enough bacterial growth to keep tooth decay from starting.
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Dec 11th, 2013
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Tags: dental plaque, Dr Safa, oral bacteria, oral health, oral hygiene, pasadena endodontix, plaque