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Wisdom Teeth Removal Lancaster & Palmdale

Posted on August 22, 2018 by admin

Wisdom teeth, or third molars, are the last permanent teeth to erupt, usually during the late teens or early twenties. Since they develop much later compared to other permanent teeth, they have the tendency to cause multiple dental problems which can make wisdom teeth removal a necessity. Extracting one, two, or all four of the troublesome third molars can help resolve the problems you’re experiencing now and prevent future problems.

Why Wisdom Teeth Removal May Be Necessary

Sometimes, the wisdom teeth don’t come through the gum properly. This may happen because the jaw is too small, such that there isn’t enough space for the tooth to develop properly. Alternatively, the tooth may develop in the wrong direction. When a wisdom tooth doesn’t erupt properly, it is known as an impacted wisdom tooth.

Impacted wisdom teeth are associated with a number of problems that can be resolved by extraction, including:

  • Pain
  • Recurrent infection of the gum overlying a wisdom tooth that is part way through the gum – pericoronitis
  • Decay in the wisdom tooth – which is difficult to repair
  • Abscess or tooth infection due to advanced dental decay
  • Tooth decay in the adjacent molars due to an impacted gum disease
  • Periodontal disease in the surrounding gum tissue of an impacted tooth
  • Progressive cystic (fluid-filled sac) that forms around the tooth

wisdom teeth removal

Wisdom teeth may also be considered troublesome if they push adjacent teeth out of alignment causing crowding or if they interfere with orthodontic treatment or other dental work. Moreover, they’re generally hard to clean, considering they’re at the back of the mouth, which may add to any dental/gum problems.

Wisdom Teeth Removal
If you’re struggling with any of the above problems, Dr. Jeffrey Stein in Lancaster, Palmdale will perform a thorough dental exam to determine whether you’re a good candidate for wisdom tooth removal. This exam includes a review of your dental and medical history, physical examination of all your teeth and gums, check for signs of infection, and x-rays of your teeth and jaws.

Wisdom teeth removal is an outpatient surgical procedure. Dr. Stein may recommend the removal of all 4 teeth at once, or in separate procedures for each side of your mouth. Each session lasts anywhere between 45 minutes and 2 hours, including recovery from anesthesia.

Please visit Dr. Stein in Lancaster for a thorough examination of your troublesome wisdom teeth and a personalized treatment plan that may involve removal.

 

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When is Wisdom Teeth Removal Needed

Posted on April 30, 2018 by admin

Adults have a total number of 32 teeth once the wisdom teeth erupt in your late teenage years or early twenties. But because they come out so late when your other permanent teeth have already set in, there’s usually limited space for them to develop properly, resulting in impacted wisdom teeth that not only damage adjacent teeth, but also hide bacteria and increase the risk of infections.

When is Wisdom Teeth Removal Needed | Wisdom Tooth Extraction

But not all wisdom teeth are troublesome, and only 12% of impacted wisdom teeth tend to become diseased. In fact, dental professionals argue that there’s no need to remove healthy, fully grown in, and correctly positioned wisdom teeth. However, if one or more of your wisdom teeth are causing pain and discomfort, you should visit Dr. Stein for proper diagnosis and removal if need be.

When to remove wisdom teeth

Although removing wisdom teeth can help reduce the risk of complications in future, Dr. Stein only recommends that you proceed with the extraction if:

They are pushing adjacent teeth

Impacted teeth that grow in at an angle tend to push the neighboring teeth and cause overcrowding. This not only causes pain, but also loosens the healthy molars and increases the risk of tooth loss. Moreover, the incompletely erupted teeth tend to form deep pocket that allow food and bacteria to collect, causing infections.

They are causing gum problems

Overcrowded teeth tend to create deep pockets between the teeth that are not easy to clean with regular brushing and flossing. This allows bacterial plaque to build up and cause cavities and gum disease. The situation can be worsened by teeth that erupt through the gums partially (become impacted), as the bacteria can cause infections or cysts in the gums or jawbone. The bacteria can also get into your bloodstream and aggravate health conditions such as heart disease.

Their position is interfering with jaw movement

If the wisdom teeth erupt in such a way that they cause you to bite or scrape your cheek and other soft tissues, or if they cause the surrounding gums to swell and make it painful to open your mouth or chew, then they should be removed.

It you’re conflicted about getting your wisdom teeth removed, please visit Dr. Stein in Lancaster for a proper diagnosis that will include taking X-rays to check the position of your teeth and determine whether they need to be extracted.

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What are Dental Crowns and Tooth Bridges?

Posted on March 30, 2018 by admin

A bridge refers to any dental prosthesis that is attached or secured to a natural tooth or dental implant abutment in order to cover a space that is missing one or more teeth for functional or cosmetic purposes. A dental crown, on the other hand, is a prosthetic tool that is placed onto a damaged implant or tooth to “cap” or cover it entirely, and in the process, restore its form, function, and appearance.

What are Dental Crowns and Tooth Bridges? | Lancaster Dentist, Oral Care

Modern dentistry provides you with multiple options to replace missing teeth or restore damaged ones in a way that maximizes both the functional and aesthetic requirements.

Whether you’re using a dental crown to repair a worn, broken, or fractured tooth, or a dental bridge to fill a gap between your teeth, both treatments are permanent, and can only be revised by a dentist.

Learn More About Same Day Porcelain Crowns Using CEREC®

Indications for Dental Crowns and Bridges

The decision to get a crown or fixed bridge that is either tooth- or implant-supported depends on a variety of factors, including:

  • Your goals
  • Your oral and general health
  • The condition of the remaining teeth, gums, and oral hygiene maintenance
  • Analysis of the pros, cons, and long-term implications of getting a crown or fixed bridge
  • Any complications that may lower the success rate of the treatment

Before finally agreeing to a specific treatment strategy, your dentist should inform you about the implications, possible sequela, and the expected life-expectancy of the work, including your options for continuing care.

In all cases, the clinical benefits of fixed bridges and crowns should justify the choice of the treatment and outweigh their disadvantages. Your dentist should provide you with a number of dental treatment options for your cases. Either of these advanced restorative treatments should only be undertaken in situations where they clearly contribute to your oral health and wellbeing.

Lastly, keep in mind that the success of any dental treatment also depends on your subsequent commitment to oral health care maintenance.

Dental Consultation

Contact Lancaster dentist, Dr. Jeffrey Stein, for more information on dental crowns and tooth bridges. Call our office @ (661) 949-1894 or schedule an appointment online.

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The Difference Between Implants, Bridges, and Dentures?

Posted on February 21, 2018 by admin

When it comes missing teeth replacement, there are several options available including a tooth implant, denture, and a bridge. Your dentist may recommend any of these three options depending on many factors such as:

  • The number of missing teeth
  • The position of the missing tooth or teeth
  • Condition of the remaining teeth
  • Condition of the gum tissue
  • Your budget, etc.

That said, any of these treatments can be used to replace most cases of missing teeth. So how do you pick the best tooth replacement option for you?

Teeth Replacement, The Difference Between Implants, Bridges, and Dentures?

Dental Bridges

Placing a dental bridge typically takes two dental visits. On your first visit, the dentist will prepare the teeth adjacent to the gap – on both sides – by filing them. Afterwards, he will take a dental impression and send it to the laboratory to make your custom bridge. This may take several days, so you will be fitted with a temporary bridge to protect the prepared teeth and to prevent a toothless smile.

On your second visit, the permanent bridge will be placed in your mouth, and the fit adjusted until you’re comfortable with your new set of teeth. Strong dental cement will then be used to fix the bridge permanently. This is a simple, cost-effective way to replace one or more missing teeth.

Tooth Implant

Dental implants involve the placement of a titanium implant directly into your jawbone. The two fuse together in a few months, providing a strong support for an abutment and crown (the replacement tooth). This option provides an artificial tooth that is nearly as strong as your natural teeth. However, it involves surgery, is expensive, and recovery takes a long time.

Dentures

Dentures comprise a set of artificial teeth fixed to a plastic gum. Partial dentures come with metal clips that attach to surrounding teeth for support. Full dentures, on the other hand, are designed to replace an entire arc of teeth, and can be supported by gum tissue or several implants placed at intervals.

Choosing a Tooth Replacement Option

Whichever tooth replacement option you choose, it is important that you get the procedure done by a skilled and experienced dentist in Lancaster to maximize the longevity of your new set of teeth. Dentures can last up to 8 years with frequent adjusting to ensure a proper fit. Bridges can last 8 to 15 years, while implants can last a lifetime with proper care.

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Sleep Dentistry in Palmdale

Posted on January 18, 2018 by admin

Research shows that about 25 percent of the American population experiences some sort of dental anxiety, or fear of dental appointments and procedures. What many patients don’t realize is how far dental techniques and technologies have advanced over the past decades, which has drastically reduced or eliminated any pain or discomfort experienced in the dentist’s chair. Sleep dentistry offers an excellent way to provide a safe, anxiety-free, dental experience to those who are afraid of the dentist.

Sleep Dentistry in Palmdale, CA

Putting off your routine checkups and professional cleanings, and waiting until your dental problems turn into dental emergencies not only increases the risk of chronic dental problems, but also endangers your overall health and increases the cost of treatment.

Types of Sleep Dentistry

If you or your children suffer from dental anxieties, you should discuss the potential anesthesia solutions with your dentist to help overcome those fears and receive the care or treatment you need.

Although sedation is often referred to as sleep dentistry, it does not necessarily mean that you will be asleep during the procedure. Actually, sleepiness is usually a side effect of the heightened sense of calmness.

The most common types of dental sedatives include:

Nitrous Oxide in Palmdale

Also referred to as “laughing gas”, nitrous oxide is a mild sedative administered throughout the procedure via a nose hood. It helps to reduce pain, relieve anxiety, and create a sense of numbness.

Oral Conscious Sedation in Palmdale

Oral Conscious Sedation is a great option for people who are afraid of needles. The oral medication is given before the treatment begins in order to dull your senses. Patients report that they cannot remember the noises, smells, or pain from the procedure.

Different levels of sedation – deep, moderate, mild – can be achieved depending on each patient’s needs. It is recommended that a patient considering sleep dentistry in Palmdale gets someone to drive them or accompany them to/from the dental procedure because of the side effects – drowsiness and grogginess.

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What is a FAGD Dentist

Posted on December 18, 2017 by admin

Dr. Jeffrey H. Stein, DDS, FAGDAny dentist who bears the FAGD title, which stands for Fellow in the Academy of General Dentistry, has accomplished one of the most stringent continuing dental education programs available to general dentists today. It is a title of recognition by other general dentists as a professional who values continuing dental education to provide superior patient care.

There are several requirements for a general dentist to be granted the Fellowship award:

1. The general dentist must be a member of the of the AGD – Academy of General Dentistry – for at least three consecutive years. The AGD is an expert association with over 40,000 dental professionals operating in North America – Canada and the USA. Being granted a “Fellowship” essentially means that you have become a permanent member of the AGD.

During the three consecutive years mentioned above, the general dentist must never have had his/her license revoked, or even suspended for whatever reason or duration

2. The general dentist must have a minimum of 500 hours of continuing dental education credits that are approved and certified by the AGD

3. The general dentist must pass a comprehensive 400-question FAGD examination

4. The general dentist must attend the convocation ceremony. This is the final phase of awarding the fellowship.

Although being awarded Fellowship takes time and effort, it motivates the general dentist to stay up-to-date with new approaches and technologies in dentistry, and to incorporate them into their practices.

Why You Should Choose an FAGD Dentist in Lancaster

Any general dentist who is a member of the AGD and has been awarded fellowship is evidently committed to a lifelong pursuit of education to keep providing superior quality of dental care to his or her patients.

FAGD is a symbol of the professional responsibility of the dentist, and a constant reminder to continually learn new dental approaches and techniques for the benefit of the patients. An FAGD dentist is a dental professional you can trust to provide you with the best possible dental care for your specific case.

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Sedation Dentistry: Helping Patients Relax

Posted on December 1, 2017 by admin

The mere thought of going to the dentist can give some people anxiety. Sedation dentistry is increasingly popular as an option to help people relax during dental procedures.

Sedation Dentistry: Helping Patients Relax

Most people think sedation dentistry involves getting “knocked out” and being unconscious. Although it is an option, most sedatives can be administered to reduce anxiety and allow the patient to stay awake through the procedure. Patients may experience some sleepiness while medicated so it’s important that the patient has someone accompany them to and from the dental office.

Why Choose Sedation Dentistry?

  • Reduced anxiety
  • Minimal side effects
  • Safe
  • Can be administered by dentist
  • No needles with oral sedatives

Learn More About Sedation Dentistry w/ Dr. Jeffrey Stein in Lancaster »

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How Often Should You Get Your Teeth Cleaned?

Posted on November 15, 2017 by admin

Even for those who brush and floss their teeth twice on a daily basis, most dentist recommend getting a dental exam and cleaning every six months.

How Often Should You Get Your Teeth Cleaned

Why Should You Visit the Dentist Twice a Year

  • Tartar Control – although regular brushing can reduce plaque and tartar buildup, only your dentist or dental hygienist can remove it professionally.
  • Periodontal Evaluation – do your gums bleed? Your dentist can find out why in an exam.
  • Oral Cancer Screening – during a dental exam, your dentist can look for signs of oral cancer.

Learn More About Dental Exams & Cleanings in Lancaster and Palmdale »

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3 Tips to Find the Best Cosmetic Dentist in Lancaster

Posted on October 31, 2017 by admin

Finding the best cosmetic dentist in Lancaster can be a challenging task owing to the abundance of medical and dental professionals in the area. Looking at a practice’s website might reveal a prestigious address and images of their beautiful and inviting offices, but this information is not enough to make a conclusive decision.

Tips to Find the Best Cosmetic Dentist in Lancaster

Finding the right cosmetic dentist in Lancaster requires a little more research, especially into the credibility, experience, and areas of training of the dentist who will be working on your teeth and smile. Here are some things to consider before making your final decision:

1. Member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry

Board certification and/or recognition by a professional body implies that the dentist is dedicated to advancing in his/her field through continual learning in the latest techniques in cosmetic dentistry. You will likely be paying out-of-pocket for your smile enhancement or makeover, so it’s important that you only work with the best.

2. Scope of Services

There are numerous cosmetic dental procedures that require additional years of training before practice, so it’s not unusual to find a dentist who only offers a few popular services like dental implants and veneers. Depending on the amount of work that your smile needs, you may need to find a cosmetic dentist with more credentials. This will ensure that you get the best procedure for your case as opposed to the procedures available to that dentist.

3. Experience

A certified cosmetic dentist should be able to skillfully perform any dental procedure that he/she has been trained to. But as a patient, you will likely have a greater chance of success and peace of mind if your dentist has years of experience and countless successful procedures under his/her belt.

When it comes down to it, only a personal consultation with your supposed best cosmetic dentist in Lancaster will help to determine whether you have made the right decision. Discuss all aspects of your treatment and only proceed when you’re sure that you’re in safe and capable hands.

Read Stephanie S.‘s review of Jeffrey H Stein, DDS on Yelp

Dr. Jeffrey Stein – Top Rated Cosmetic Dentist in Lancaster

Dr. Stein’s philosophy is, and has always been to provide his patients with quality and compassionate dental care rendered in a professional atmosphere. His focus is not only on the dental health and esthetic perspective, but also the overall health of the patient.

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Common Root Canal Myths Explained

Posted on August 24, 2017 by admin

Root Canal Myths

A root canal is a dental procedure that is performed by an experienced dentist. Root canals are a necessary course of action designed to save your tooth when a tooth’s pulp becomes decayed. While this procedure is a great solution that can restore your tooth over extracting it, there are common root canal myths that have sprout up over the years and I’d like to tackle them one by one.

The 1st Common Root Canal Myth

People believe that root canals are a time-consuming procedure requiring more than one visit. This isn’t true. Our Lancaster dentist can complete the entire root canal procedure in about 1-2 hours depending on each individual’s case. The procedure is also completed in one visit. However, because a portion of your tooth is lost from the procedure, most patients typically opt to receive a dental crown. In this case, another appointment is needed to fulfill your crown.

The 2nd Common Root Canal Myth

Some believe the process is a painful one. If you feel pain during your procedure, then we can assure you that something is wrong. The procedure is performed under a local anesthesia that numbs the area that will be receiving the root canal. Our dentists make sure you are completely numb before the procedure starts. You may experience different sensations during the procedure, but you won’t experience pain.

The 3rd Common Root Canal Myth

Some dentists may request that you have a tooth extracted instead of opting for a root canal. This is unnecessary. It is always better to try and save as much as your tooth as possible before deciding to pull it. Modern dentistry offers a lot in terms of dental implants, but your natural teeth always reign supreme over artificial teeth.

The 4th Common Root Canal Myth

Long ago, research was performed that concluded root canals resulted in illness. This is merely a theory that has not been validated through scientific evidence linking root canals and disease. Root canals actually save you from illness by destroying harmful bacteria that has spread deep into your tooth.

With all of that said, root canal procedures are specifically designed to help your teeth and improve your oral hygiene. Don’t buy into false information attempting to inform you that root canals are an un-wise decision. Rely on your Lancaster family dentist for accurate information as they have spent countless hours studying research that has been performed, latest and greatest techniques, and of course proper safety regarding dental procedures.

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