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Cunning Dental

Rediscover the Joy of a Confident Smile!

Are you tired of uncomfortable dentures that hold you back from fully enjoying life? At Cunning Dental Group in Montclair, CA, we understand the emotional impact of denture struggles. That's why we offer a life-changing solution: Full Denture Implants.

Imagine...

Eating your favorite foods with ease and pleasure.

Laughing freely without worry.

Smiling confidently in any situation.

Our advanced technology and expert team provide a permanent, natural-feeling replacement for your teeth, allowing you to rediscover the joy and confidence that comes with a healthy, beautiful smile.

Call (855) 328-6646 today to schedule your consultation and start your journey to a radiant smile!

For more information on Cunning Dental, visit our website.

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Cunning Dental

Cunning Dental: Your Permanent Solution for a Radiant Smile

Tired of dealing with uncomfortable, slipping dentures? Cunning Dental Group in Montclair, CA offers a revolutionary alternative with Full Denture Implants. Our innovative approach combines state-of-the-art technology with a team of experienced professionals to create a permanent solution that looks and feels just like your natural teeth.

Rediscover the Joy of a Confident Smile. Contact Cunning Dental Group today at (855) 328-6646 to schedule your consultation and learn more about how Full Denture Implants can transform your life.

for more information on Cunning Dental visit our website

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10 Toothache Remedies for Fast Relief

Your head is pounding, your gums are throbbing, and your mouth is sore and tender. You have a toothache. It's important to see your dentist in Irvine-Montclair, California as soon as possible to find the root of the problem. While waiting for your appointment — particularly if you experience a toothache in the middle of the night — these home remedies may provide short-term relief.

How to Treat a Toothache and Relieve Pain Quickly

Despite the advantages of these remedies, keep in mind that they are not replacements for your dentist and daily oral hygiene routine. Moreover, speak with a medical professional before using any of the following remedies, especially if you're pregnant, breastfeeding, or have a health issue that herbal ingredients may impact or aggravate.

1. Salt water rinse

A salt water rinse has long been an effective first-line treatment for tooth pain. Salt water is a natural disinfectant. It helps loosen food particles, debris, and any minuscule residue that may be stuck in the crevices of your teeth. According to a 2016 study, treating a toothache with salt water can also reduce inflammation and heal oral wounds.

To try this method, add 1/2 teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water. Use it as a mouthwash.

2. Hydrogen peroxide rinse

A hydrogen peroxide rinse may help soothe tooth pain and gum inflammation. Aside from killing oral bacteria, hydrogen peroxide may reduce plaque and stop bleeding gums.

This compound is safe for most patients if they use it correctly. However, hydrogen peroxide can be harmful if the concentration is too potent or if a patient uses it too often.  Therefore, ensure to dilute the compound properly. Combine 3 percent hydrogen peroxide with equal parts water. Use it as a mouthwash. Do not swallow the solution.

3. Cold compress

Using a cold compress is one of the most effective ways to relieve a toothache temporarily, especially if trauma is the cause of your pain. This self-care approach to treating a toothache causes the blood vessels in the area to constrict. Reduced pain is the result. The cold feeling against your cheek can also help reduce any swelling or inflammation.

To use this approach, hold an ice pack or cloth-wrapped bag of ice to the affected area for about 10 minutes at a time. You can repeat this step every couple of hours.

4. Garlic

People have been using garlic for its medicinal properties for countless centuries. Garlic can kill harmful bacteria that cause dental plaque buildup, and it can also act as a pain reliever.

To use this method, crush and mash a garlic clove until it turns into a paste. Apply it directly to the affected area. You can also add a small amount of salt.

5. Vanilla extract

Pure vanilla extract contains at least 35 percent alcohol, which can help numb pain. Its antioxidant properties also make it an effective healing agent.

To use this method, place a small amount of vanilla extract onto a cotton ball. Then, apply it to the affected area a few times a day.

6. Clove

People have been using cloves to alleviate toothaches throughout history. According to a study published in the Libyan Journal of Medicine, clove oil numbed pain and reduced inflammation in the mouth and throat. Eugenol — the main bioactive compound of clove — is also a natural antiseptic.

If you want to use this approach, place a small amount of clove oil diluted with 1-2 drops of olive oil or water onto a cotton ball. Apply it to the affected area. Alternatively, you can add a drop of clove oil to a cup of water. Use it as a mouthwash.

7. Guava leaves

The anti-inflammatory properties of guava leaves assist in healing wounds. Their antimicrobial activity also benefits oral health.

For quick, short-term relief for a toothache, chew on fresh guava leaves. You can also add some crushed guava leaves to boiling water. Use the latter as a mouthwash.

8. Wheatgrass

Wheatgrass has several healing properties, such as relieving inflammation inside the mouth and preventing infections. Its high chlorophyll content can also defend against harmful bacteria.

While waiting for your dental appointment, you can use wheatgrass juice as a mouthwash to soothe your toothache.

9. Thyme

Thyme has powerful antioxidant and antibacterial properties that can aid in treating toothaches.

To use this method, add a few drops of thyme essential oil diluted with a couple of drops of water onto a cotton ball. Apply it to the affected area. You can also add a drop of thyme essential oil to a small cup of water to use as a mouthwash.

10. Pain medication

Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen may help numb a toothache until you see your dentist. However, consult a pharmacist before taking any pain relievers, and make sure to follow the dosage recommendations.

A Word of Advice

Even though you can try these remedies at home, be mindful of your source of ingredients. All of the items listed above are available at your local health food market or online. Your teeth, gums, and overall mouth area are extra sensitive while enduring tooth pain, so it's especially important to buy these ingredients from a reputable supplier. If you use poor-quality or expired products, you can increase your risk of irritation.

Don't Forget to Book Your Dental Appointment

If your toothache is severe or is the result of trauma or a serious medical condition, you need to see your California dentist to address the problem properly. Most toothaches will require dental services, including but not limited to non-metal fillings and root canal therapy.

In addition, you should visit your dentist if you experience any of these symptoms:

Fever

Difficulty breathing or swallowing

Pain when biting down or chewing

Red, swollen gums

Presence of pus or foul-tasting discharge

Pain that persists for days

The bottom line is that a homemade rinse or cold compress application usually alleviates minor irritations, but most toothaches will require your dentist's attention.

If you're looking for some of the best dentists in Irvine-Montclair, CA, call Cunning Dental Group today at (855) 328-6646 or write to us online so we can provide guidance on how to relieve toothaches and prevent future pain.

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Cunning Dental

Focus on the emotional benefits

Say Goodbye to Denture Worries, Hello to a Confident Smile!

Uncomfortable dentures holding you back? Cunning Dental Group in Montclair, CA offers a life-changing solution: Full Denture Implants. Our advanced technology and expert team provide a permanent, natural-feeling replacement for your teeth. Rediscover the joy of eating, laughing, and smiling with confidence.

Call (855) 328-6646 today to schedule your consultation and start your journey to a radiant smile!

https://cunningdental.com

For more information on Cunning Dental, visit our website.

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Dental Crown Specialist Montclair

Repair Your Damaged Tooth with a Dental Crown specialist Cunning Dental Group in Montclair, CA

Get your smile back with a natural-looking and durable dental crown. Our expert team uses advanced technology to ensure a perfect fit and a comfortable experience.

Benefits of choosing Cunning Dental Group:

Expert specialists: Our dental crown experts have the knowledge and skill to create a custom crown that blends seamlessly with your natural teeth.

Advanced technology: We use state-of-the-art technology to ensure precision and accuracy in every crown we create.

Patient comfort: Your comfort is our priority. We strive to make your experience as pleasant as possible.

Say goodbye to discomfort and hello to a beautiful, functional smile.

Call (855) 328-6646 today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how a dental crown can transform your smile.

For more information on dental crown specialist montclair visit our website

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Cunning Dental vs Clear Choice

Focus on Cunning Dental's comprehensive care

Cunning Dental: Your one-stop shop for personalized dental care. We offer a full range of dental services, from routine cleanings to complex procedures. Our team is committed to providing you with transparent pricing and a comfortable, personalized experience. Need dental implants? Consider Clear Choice for their specialized approach. Call Cunning Dental today at (855) 328-6646 for a free consultation!

For more information on cunning dental vs clear choice visit our website

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Cunning Dental

 Focus on the emotional benefits

Say Goodbye to Denture Worries, Hello to a Confident Smile!

Uncomfortable dentures holding you back? Cunning Dental Group in Montclair, CA offers a life-changing solution: Full Denture Implants. Our advanced technology and expert team provide a permanent, natural-feeling replacement for your teeth. Rediscover the joy of eating, laughing, and smiling with confidence.

Call (855) 328-6646 today to schedule your consultation and start your journey to a radiant smile!

For more information on Cunning Dental, visit our website.

[cunningdentalgroupca]

Cunning Dental

 Focus on the emotional benefits

Say Goodbye to Denture Worries, Hello to a Confident Smile!

Uncomfortable dentures holding you back? Cunning Dental Group in Montclair, CA offers a life-changing solution: Full Denture Implants. Our advanced technology and expert team provide a permanent, natural-feeling replacement for your teeth. Rediscover the joy of eating, laughing, and smiling with confidence.

Call (855) 328-6646 today to schedule your consultation and start your journey to a radiant smile!

for more information on cunning dental visit our website

[cunningdentalgroupca]

Cunning Dental

Cunning Dental: Your Permanent Solution for a Radiant Smile

Tired of dealing with uncomfortable, slipping dentures? Cunning Dental Group in Montclair, CA offers a revolutionary alternative with Full Denture Implants. Our innovative approach combines state-of-the-art technology with a team of experienced professionals to create a permanent solution that looks and feels just like your natural teeth. Rediscover the Joy of a Confident Smile. Contact Cunning Dental Group today at (855) 328-6646 to schedule your consultation and learn more about how Full Denture Implants can transform your life.

For more information on Cunning Dental, visit our website.

[cunningdentalgroupca]

Cunning Dental

Tired of dealing with uncomfortable, slipping dentures? Cunning Dental Group in Montclair, CA offers a revolutionary alternative with Full Denture Implants. Our innovative approach combines state-of-the-art technology with a team of experienced professionals to create a permanent solution that looks and feels just like your natural teeth.

Rediscover the Joy of a Confident Smile. Contact Cunning Dental Group today at (855) 328-6646 to schedule your consultation and learn more about how Full Denture Implants can transform your life.

[cunningdentalgroupca]

cunning dental

Cunning Dental: Your Permanent Solution for a Radiant Smile

Tired of dealing with uncomfortable, slipping dentures? Cunning Dental Group in Montclair, CA offers a revolutionary alternative with Full Denture Implants. Our innovative approach combines state-of-the-art technology with a team of experienced professionals to create a permanent solution that looks and feels just like your natural teeth. Rediscover the Joy of a Confident Smile. Contact Cunning Dental Group today at (855) 328-6646 to schedule your consultation and learn more about how Full Denture Implants can transform your life.

[cunningdentalgroupca]

Screw In Teeth

A dental implant is also known as a screw in teeth. They are designed to be a long-term solution to tooth loss, lasting between 20 and 30 years.

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Soda and Dental Health: Dangers and Damage Prevention

Perhaps it's obvious that something referred to as "Mountain Dew mouth" isn't positive. The problem is that dentists throughout California are seeing varying degrees of it (also called "soda mouth") more frequently than ever. Health specialists consider the popular drink Mountain Dew as one of the main reasons for high rates of tooth decay and other dental problems.

Why Soda Is Bad for Your Teeth

Sodas contain high amounts of sugar (corn syrup is also a sugar). Naturally-occurring bacteria inside your mouth thrive in the presence of excessive sugar. In the process, they make harmful acids that wreak havoc on your oral health, especially on the protective outer layer of your teeth called enamel. When oral bacteria penetrate through your weakened enamel, a small hole forms to begin a cavity. If neglected, even a single cavity can lead to severe pain and tooth loss.

You might be asking yourself, "If I switch to diet soda, I'll eliminate the problem, right? Wrong.

Drinking any form of soda (energy drinks included) subjects you to consuming acids found in the drink itself. Carbonic, citric, and phosphoric acids are some of the ingredients in sugared and sugar-free soda alike. And, although sugar is notorious for being the leading culprit behind tooth decay, acids such as those mentioned can be equally — or more — harmful to your teeth, especially since they possess the ability to erode enamel and the layer underneath (dentin).

How to Prevent Soda-Related Tooth Damage

Giving up your soda-drinking habits would remove a ruthless enemy to your oral health (and your overall health). However, if eliminating soda is not a practical choice for you (although most health experts recommend it), there are many ways to combat the negative effects of soda on your teeth.

1. Have an after-soda strategy

If you love soda and can't give it up just yet, you need to create an anti-tooth decay strategy to follow after each beverage. For instance, you can drink a glass of water or rinse your mouth with clean water or a mouthwash to reduce the soda residue on your teeth.

As for brushing your teeth after drinking soda, remember to wait for 30 minutes before doing so. When you sip on soda, its acids begin reacting with the surface of your teeth almost instantly, which makes them vulnerable to cavities and other dental problems. A 2009 study supports this claim, concluding that tooth brushing right after drinking soda can worsen the effects of acidic beverages.

2. Limit your consumption to once a day (or less)

Those who drink soda throughout the day are constantly giving sugar and acids the opportunity to ruin their teeth. If you must drink soda, limit it to a short period of time, such as pairing it with one of your main means instead of every meal and snack. But this is not a stamp of approval to drink as much as you can in one sitting. As much as possible, limit your soda consumption to a standard serving per day.

To make things easier for you, it may help to rid your home of soda cans and bottles so that you don't find yourself reaching for them throughout the day.

3. Replace soda with another satisfying beverage

Allow us to point out the obvious: water doesn't have the harmful sugars and acids that popular sodas like Mountain Dew, Coke, or Pepsi contain. It's also free of charge (if we're strictly talking about municipal tap water). If plain water isn't to your liking, you can also choose from a variety of delicious soda alternatives beyond water. But remember that when it boils down to the best beverage for your health, water wins hands down.

4. Keep a water bottle as your daily companion

If you have some ice-cold water within reach at all times, you might not even think about or miss soda. As soon as you get up each morning, fill an insulated tumbler (or any drinking container with a lid) with water, and ensure it stays by your side throughout the day. Having a water bottle right next to you at all times may help you drink more water than soda. If you still end up with a can of soda in hand, having a water bottle in the other should help you eliminate some of the sugar residues in your mouth. So go drink that H20!

5. Visit your dentist twice a year

Alongside good oral hygiene, prioritizing dental checkups every six months can go a long way in keeping your teeth strong, white, and healthy. If your dentist detects a soda-related issue, he or she can implement measures to prevent it from worsening. Your dentist in Irvine and Montclair, CA can also provide helpful tips and insights on how to reduce the harmful effects of soda.

A Final Word of Advice

If you're like half of America's population, the chances are high that you've had a sugary drink today — and it was probably soda. Aside from damaging your teeth, keep in mind that drinking a high-sugar beverage is also associated with weight gain, obesity, and type 2 diabetes. Moreover, one study revealed a striking resemblance between Mountain Dew mouth and meth mouth. To make matters worse, according to a recent study, people who drink more than two glasses of soda a day have a high risk of premature death.

If you have to drink soda or any soft drink, do your best to do it in moderation and protect your overall health in the process.

General and Cosmetic Dentists in Irvine-Montclair, CA

Cunning Dental Group's main purpose is to provide you with the highest quality dental services in Southern California. Our dentists provide individualized general and cosmetic dentistry for the whole family. So, whether your child needs braces or your father needs dental implants, we can get the job done. Call us today at (855) 328-6646 or write to us online to schedule your dental appointment and take the first step toward a healthier, more confident smile.

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10 Ways Professional Teeth Whitening Can Change Your Life

People say "a smile is a curve that sets everything straight" for good reasons. The smile you wear is usually the first thing people notice about you, and it's the best tool you have for welcoming them into your life. A brilliant smile is so important nowadays that tooth whitening has become one of the most popular cosmetic procedures performed here at Cunning Dental Group.

How Professional Teeth Whitening Benefits You 

There are at least ten compelling reasons to have professional teeth whitening in Irvine and Montclair, CA. Let's talk about the top reasons below.

1.  Flash your best smile ever

Brighter, whiter teeth can instantly improve your appearance and change the way people interact with you. A study published in the National Library of Medicine revealed that having whiter teeth can make you look more attractive. Moreover, onlookers perceive people with brighter teeth as more approachable, social, and intelligent. Getting your teeth professionally whitened is the best way to achieve the captivating smile of your dreams.

2. Be the most confident you've ever been

Most people who sign up for teeth whitening services say they do it to give their self-confidence a boost and to acquire the self-esteem that accompanies having a beautiful smile.

As mentioned earlier, the color of your teeth is arguably a notable factor in how others might perceive you. Thanks to the level of whitening achieved with modern tooth whitening treatments, you can exude confidence and convey an impressive first impression when you meet new people, whether on a first date or during a job interview. Your brighter smile may even change an old friend's opinion about you into something more positive.

3. Look years younger

Your teeth can darken over time due to cumulative stains from certain beverages, as well as due to natural changes, such as the pulp in the center of your teeth darkening with age.

The colored pigments in soda, tea, coffee, red wine, and tobacco products are the leading causes of gradual teeth staining. Acidic foods and beverages, particularly those that contain high amounts of sugar, can also make it easier for pigments to penetrate deeper into your teeth as they wear away the enamel.

4. Get whiter teeth in an hour or less

The results of professional teeth whitening in Southern California are significantly better than the outcome you get from over-the-counter products, as the whitening agent dentists use is more concentrated than commercial whitening agents. As a result, your teeth can be up to eight shades lighter in just one hour.

Over-the-counter treatments, on the other hand, typically require consistent daily application for many weeks or months, only to lighten your teeth by one to two shades.

5. Make heads turn during special occasions

The best accessory you can wear while walking down the aisle on your wedding day, attending your high school reunion, or posing for group photos is a smile that sparkles. Who needs statement jewelry when your smile is enough to captivate the entire room?

6. Take your newly straightened to the next level

After a year or so in braces, the day you've been waiting for arrives: you finally get your braces removed and witness your stunning new smile. However, a difference in color where your braces interfered with teeth brushing can immediately turn your smile upside down. Professionally whitening your teeth can add the finishing touch you seek on your brand new smile.

7. Prevent tooth sensitivity

You may experience temporary sensitivity after a tooth whitening session since the active ingredient will enter the enamel to break down discolorations and stains. Fortunately, the professional whitening products top dentists use typically contain good-for-your-teeth ingredients that can alleviate sensitivity.

8. Avoid irritating your oral cavity

The whitening strips and trays from local stores are one-size-fits-all, which means it's impossible for them to fit everyone since each person's overall mouth shape and teeth are different. In consequence, some of the active ingredients can come into contact with your gums, inner cheek, and tongue, causing irritation.

Here at Cunning Dental Group, when you come in for teeth whitening services, we will protect your gums, inner cheek area, and tongue from irritations due to active whitening ingredients. We can also apply a buffer gel onto your gums and make use of dental tools, including a bite block and a cheek retractor, to prevent your lips and inside of your mouth from coming into contact with hydrogen peroxide and other tissue-irritating substances.

9. Personalize your teeth whitening

Over-the-counter teeth whitening products are convenient and simple to use, but if you don't have an even amount of the whitening agent applied in close contact with every tooth for an equal amount of time, then you can end up with uneven whitening.

In contrast, most cosmetic dentists in Irvine begin the teeth whitening process by matching your tooth's existing shade to the shade you wish to achieve. Then, they meticulously apply the whitening gel to each tooth, customizing the degree of whitening to meet your desired outcome.

10. Find out if your oral health is in tip-top condition

When you come in for professional teeth whitening services, you gain the benefit of a dental examination, which is the only way to ensure that whitening is safe for your teeth. When is teeth whitening unsafe, you ask? If you have dental problems like cavities or small cracks in your teeth, you are not a good candidate for this procedure, since the whitening gel can access the delicate nerves of your mouth. It's best to address all dental issues before proceeding with any cosmetic dental procedure.

Are You a Good Candidate for Teeth Whitening in California?

Let us help you find out whether teeth whitening is the best choice for your smile. Dr. Ronald Cunning and the team at Cunning Dental Group offer teeth whitening services that have been proven to deliver gorgeous results in the safest manner. 

For teeth whitening that boosts your smile and your confidence, call us at (855) 328-6646 to schedule an appointment.

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5 Ways Sedation Dentistry Benefits Your Smile and Mind

You're not alone. Nearly 40 million Americans avoid the dentist because of dental fears and anxiety. Luckily, dental sedation in California can help.

Did you know that more than 60 percent of men and women suffer from moderate to extreme dental fears? The possibility of experiencing pain is a significant factor in preventing many Southern California residents from visiting the dentist. As a result, easier-to-treat dental cavities and toothaches become worse, which eventually costs the patient more time and money. In response, Cunning Dental Group's Dr. Ronald Cunning has been performing state-of-the-art Sedation Dentistry in California since 1968 to help patients cope with their dental anxiety or phobia. If you're scared of going to the dentist—don't be! Dental sedation is highly effective and will make your entire experience at a dental office more comfortable.

But first, what is sedation dentistry?

Sedation dentistry or dental sedation is a procedure that uses medication to help patients relax while undergoing dental treatments. It is also referred to as "sleep dentistry," although the term is not entirely accurate. The patients are drowsy but conscious, with the exception of those who are under general anesthesia.

Depending on a patient's treatment needs and age, here are the main types of dental sedation techniques we can perform here at Cunning Dental:

Inhaled sedation. This process requires introducing a combination of oxygen and nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, in the patient's respiratory system through a mask over the nose. Dental patients inhale this gas under controlled conditions to feel relaxed and comfortable while the dental procedure is taking place. Dentists usually apply inhaled sedation at a low level, which allows patients to drive themselves home after the dental procedure.

Oral sedation. For this particular type of sedation, dentists instruct their patients to take a pill an hour in advance of their appointment. The medications typically prescribed for oral sedation include Halcion® or Valium®. Dentists can recommend decreasing or increasing the dosage to manage the intensity of sedation effects. This technique is one of the easiest to administer, although it requires patients to prepare in advance and they cannot drive before and after treatment.

Intravenous sedation. For more complex dental procedures such as root canal therapy or wisdom tooth extraction, patients can opt to have a sedative drug injected into their vein using intravenous (IV) sedation technique. IV sedation has an immediate effect on the patient's consciousness level, which a dentist can adjust when there is a need. If you are looking for a seasoned dentist who can perform this technique safely, choose Dr. Cunning. He is one of the few dentists in California licensed to practice IV sedation.

General anesthesia. In some cases, a dental specialist may prefer this method over other sedation techniques. When a patient is under general anesthesia, he or she goes into a deep sleep and is not able to hear or feel anything. Here at Cunning Dental, such sedation procedures are administered under the careful observation of our qualified oral surgeon and anesthesiologist to ensure the safety of our patients.

What are the benefits of dental sedation?

A growing number of patients are experiencing total relaxation in the dentist’s chair due to the following advantages of sedation dentistry in Irvine, Montclair and San Diego, CA:

1. Anxiety relief

Having dental fears make it difficult for a patient to control their anxiety and rapid movements while in the chair. Sleep dentistry helps such patients calm down and relax while the procedure is in progress, making the trip to the dentist a successful one.

2. Reduced gag reflexes

Extreme nervousness during a dental procedure can cause patients to experience overactive gag reflexes. In such situations, a patient can begin choking or sputtering. Sedation techniques such as the inhalation of nitrogen oxide using a Safe Sedate inhalation mask can help a nervous patient relax and forget about the psychological pressures of being in a dental chair.

3. Pain relief

The brain cannot process or register pain while under the influence of strong sedatives and anesthetics. Everyone wants pain-free dental care, which explains the rising demand for dental sedation in Southern California.

4. Prevents a traumatic dental experience

Amnesia is an unfortunate outcome in most situations, but in sedation dentistry, it is quite desirable. The anxieties and phobias people have of the dentist often stem from an unpleasant experience in childhood, and these negative emotions can grow stronger with each additional trip to the dentist's office. The latter is especially true if the patient experiences any pain or discomfort during a visit. However, with sleep dentistry, there can be no additional build-up of fears since, as mentioned, the mind cannot create new memories while under powerful sedatives and anesthetics. Sedation dentistry helps minimize or even eliminate the fear that patients will have on following dental visits.

5. Dentists can perform multiple procedures in one appointment

Dental sedation reduces the need for multiple visits in order to accomplish a single procedure. Since patients can relax and remain comfortable, dentists are able to cover more ground in a shorter amount of time. Patients can sometimes get months or years of work done in one visit without feeling anything. Not only is this excellent news for the dentist, but also for the patient. The dentist can get a patient out of the chair and on the road to recovery without scheduling a second or third appointment.

Are you ready to conquer your dental fears?

The dentist is a common phobia for adults and children alike. Thankfully, effective and painless dentistry is possible through the use of sedation. You can finally stop avoiding the dentist like the plague because sedation dentistry will make a remarkable difference in your oral health, mindset towards dentistry, and overall well-being. Picture this: you are fast asleep in a dental chair, dreaming of a brand new smile, calm and comfortable as can be. You wake up feeling refreshed and your dream becomes a beautiful reality. Sedation dentistry is the game changer you have long been waiting for, and it works just like that.

To schedule an appointment with Cunning Dental Group, give us a call at (855) 328-6646 or complete our online contact form. Dr. Cunning has been using sedation dentistry in his practice for over 50 years and for many procedures, so there is no reason to feel nervous. You will be in good hands.

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The Unlucky 13 of Self-Inflicted Dental Damage

Considering 64 percent of American adults between the ages of 18 and 64 visited their dentist in 2017, then it may be safe to assume that most of us are well-informed about the basics of maintaining a healthy smile: brush, floss, make routine visits to your Southern California dentist, and correct any oral hygiene mistakes. Decades of ongoing clinical research and observation, however, revealed that certain lifestyle choices and habits can harm your oral health regardless of your diligence in practicing good dental hygiene.

What Are the Surprising Habits That Damage Teeth?

For problem-free teeth and a smile that captivates, do your best to avoid the following:

1. Nail Biting

Biting your nails on a regular basis can impede your efforts in achieving a celebrity-esque smile. Your front teeth, in particular, are susceptible to breakage and misalignment as a result of this bad habit. 

In some cases, nail-biting is a sign of mental or emotional distress. If you are feeling nervous, anxious, or antsy, you may eliminate the urge to bite your fingernails by keeping your hands busy. Try picking up a new hobby that requires using your hands, such as playing an instrument, gardening, building model airplanes, and so on. Applying bitter-tasting nail polish, wearing gloves, and meditating are additional tips to help you stop biting your nails. 

2. Chewing on Ice

Your seemingly harmless and calorie-free habit of munching on ice cubes can actually chip or crack your teeth. The incessant chewing, and in response to extreme cold, can likewise irritate the sensitive soft tissues inside teeth, which can cause lingering toothaches to follow.

Craving and masticating ice are often associated with iron deficiency, with or without anemia. That being said, consulting a physician for proper medical assistance is essential to your health. If you have no mineral deficiencies and simply find yourself wanting to chew on something, then opt for celery sticks, baby carrots, or sugarless gum instead.

3. Using Your Teeth as a Tool

Opening things with your teeth may seem convenient since your chompers are always right in front of you, but using your pearly whites to break open bottles or rip plastic packaging is one of the habits that can crack your teeth. Remember, the main purpose of your teeth is to crush and grind food for easier digestion. Leave the beer bottles and packages to the right tools, or endure the consequences of having a dental emergency.

4. Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)

Over time, grinding your teeth can impair the health and appearance of your oral cavity. Although stress and anxiety can trigger this condition, dental problems such as an irregular bite, crooked teeth, or missing teeth are among the leading causes of teeth grinding, which usually occurs during sleep. A serious sleep disorder called sleep apnea is also associated with bruxism.

Wearing a mouthguard at night and seeking effective treatment for sleep apnea can prevent the damaging outturns of teeth grinding while sleeping.

5. Playing Sports Without a Mouth Guard

Do you play hockey, football, soccer, or any other contact sport? If yes, remember to wear a mouth guard before participating. According to Colgate Professional, "a mouth guard is a soft plastic or laminate device used in sports to prevent oral injuries to the teeth, mouth, cheeks, tongue, and jaw." The American Dental Association estimates that one-third of all dental injuries are sports-related and that wearing a mouth guard can prevent as much as 200,000 oral injuries each year.

6. Drinking Gatorade, Powerade, and Other Sports Drinks

Gulping an ice-cold sports beverage, also called an electrolyte drink, is refreshing after a good workout session or sports tournament. The downside is that these thirst-quenchers are typically high in cavity-causing sugar. Aside from the latter, most sports drinks contain phosphoric and citric acids, which can attack the enamel of your teeth and lead to decay. Soda, another sugary beverage, produces the same effect. 

The best way to stay hydrated (and protect your teeth from dental caries) while exercising or performing other physical activities is to drink sugar-free, calorie-free water.

7. Drinking Red Wine

"Red wine is acidic, and this acidity etches your enamel, making it more porous," says Dr. Uchenna Akosa, a dentist and head of faculty practice at Rutgers School of Dental Medicine. Furthermore, red wine contains deep pigments called tannins and chromogen, which, when combined with acids, makes it much easier for the garnet or violaceous color to stay with you long after your glass is empty.

8. Drinking White Wine

Much to our dismay, drinking white wine as an alternative to red wine will not spare your teeth. Acid is also present in white wine, and drinking this alcoholic beverage can still weaken the enamel. As a result, the teeth can become porous and vulnerable to staining from other dark-colored drinks, including coffee and tea.

Luckily, using toothpaste with a mild whitening agent immediately after drinking wine can fight the teeth-staining effects of both red and white wines.

9. Constant Snacking

Frequent snacking causes your mouth to secrete less saliva—the essential fluid that helps wash away food debris and bacteria remaining in the oral cavity. Producing less saliva leaves bits of food on the surface of your teeth, gums, and tongue—the ultimate breeding grounds for oral bacteria.

It is ideal for most adults to avoid snacking more than once a day. Whenever you feel a sudden onset of hunger before or after a meal, only choose snacks with low contents of sugar and starch, such as carrot sticks.

10. Chewing on Pencils

Similar to ice cubes, biting the tip of a pencil or pen when concentrating can cause chipped, cracked, or broken teeth. Therefore, the next time you feel the need to chew while studying or working, then pop sugar-free gum in your mouth instead. Sugarless gum helps stimulate the flow of saliva, which protects against enamel-eating acids and makes your teeth stronger.

11. Wearing a Tongue Piercing 24/7

Although tongue piercings are trendy, accidentally biting down on the metal stud can break your tooth. The metal constantly rubbing against your gums can also cause gum damage that may lead to permanent tooth loss. Discuss the health risks and dangers of having a tongue piercing with your dentist before committing to one. 

12. Smoking

Smoking cigarettes and other tobacco products can discolor teeth and cause them to fall out as a result of periodontal disease. Tobacco products are also a leading cause of cancer, which include malignancies that arise in the mouth, tongue, lips, and throat. If you are looking for a reason to quit smoking, then think of your smile (and overall health).

13. Brushing Your Teeth Too Hard

Brushing too hard can damage and irritate your teeth and gums, leading to serious problems like enamel wear and receding gums. To avoid such consequences, think of your oral care routine as a gentle massage rather than an intense cleanse. Brush your pearly whites at a 45-degree angle towards the gums and use short strokes.

Did any of these thirteen habits wreck your teeth? Don't worry, our professional dental services can restore the allure and beauty of your smile. Call Cunning Dental Group now at 855-328-6646 and our office associate will schedule your appointment. A healthy and brilliant smile—just like the ones from our smile gallery—awaits.