Preventive Dentistry
Preventive Care
Professional Cleanings
Professional cleanings performed by a certified dentist or hygienist are just as important to your dental health as daily brushing and flossing. Using specialized tools and training, your hygienist or dentist will:
- Remove plaque build-up from the surfaces of teeth. (Bacteria in the mouth form plaque, which collects on teeth and causes decay, gum disease, and gingivitis.)
- Remove tartar from teeth surfaces. (Tartar, or calculus, is plaque that has become so hardened on the teeth that its removal requires special procedures. Tartar below the gum line is also an indicator of gum disease.)
- Remove surface stains from teeth through polishing.
Sealants
Sealants are generally used to help prevent tooth decay on the biting surfaces of back teeth (molars). The natural grooves of these teeth can trap food that can resist casual brushing and rinsing. If left in place, the trapped food allows bacteria to multiply, eventually causing tooth decay and requiring costly attention.
Sealants are painted directly onto the tooth where they seal the natural grooves to help prevent tooth decay. While sealants are durable, they are not permanent. They can last up to 5 years of normal wear before needing replacement.
Sealants offer a cost-effective, preventative step to reduce the chances of tooth decay on the chewing surfaces of molars. However, they do not replace the need for regular brushing and flossing.
Digital X-rays (Radiographs)
X-rays are a primary tool for early identification of dental problems. Detecting issues with X-rays before they become problems can save you money in the long run by preventing the need for more extensive, expensive procedures or surgeries. X-rays are primarily used to detect:
- Internal tooth decay
- Cysts (fluid filled sacks at the base of your teeth)
- Tumors, both cancerous and non-cancerous
- Impacted teeth
- Teeth that are still coming in
Gum Disease (Periodontal Disease)
Gum disease accounts for approximately 70% of all tooth loss in adults. Early signs of gum disease include bleeding gums when flossing or brushing and gums that are red, inflamed, or swollen.
Gum disease and tooth decay are caused by the same bacteria. These bacteria form plaque beneath the gum-line, which eats away at the bond between tooth and gum. If deterioration is allowed to continue, "pockets" form in between the teeth and the gums. Pockets deeper than 3ml may require special treatment to remove the bacteria and plaque. Without treatment and continuous maintenance, gum disease will eventually weaken the bonds that hold the teeth in place.
There is no permanent treatment for gum disease. However, it can be kept under control with proper personal hygiene and regular visits to a trained dentist or hygienist.
Oral Cancer Screening
Our patients' overall health is our number one goal. We routinely perform Oral cancer screening examination to look for signs of cancer or precancerous conditions in your mouth. The goal is to detect precancerous lesions at an early stage when they're easiest to remove and be cured.
Studies have shown that in the US, one person passes away every hour from oral cancers. When precancerous lesions are identified in the early stages, they're easiest to remove and be treated faster. The earlier the diagnosis, the higher rate of success and less invasive treatment.
Our doctors recommend having an oral cancer screening at least once a year. Routine screenings can help detect signs of any potential cancer.
During your oral cancer screening, our Encino doctors will check for any abnormalities. We will closely check your mouth, throat, lips, gums, and tongue.
Please let your doctor know if you're experiencing any of the following symptoms:
- Any difficulty or discomfort during talking, swallowing or movement of your tongue or jaw
- A feeling that something is caught in the back of your throat
- Long term sore throat with no sign of sinus or flu/cold conditions
- Any lumps or swelling in the oral cavity
- Severe weight loss
- Red or white patches in your oral cavity
- recurrent mouth sores or sores that don't heal
- Unexplained earache
- Bleeding in your mouth with no explanation
If you have experienced any of these symptoms for over 7 days, with no improvement, please call us for an appointment.
Intra-Oral Camera
X-rays give us a clear view of what we can't see such as decay between the teeth. An intraoral camera gives you, the patient, a view of what the dentist sees. An intraoral camera is a device that is about the size of a toothbrush. Broken fillings, fractured teeth, decay, or any other dental problem can be viewed so that we can discuss with you any treatment needed. With a clear understanding of your dental needs, we can decide together what the best treatment is for you.
Awesome!
I had a pain in my incisor that was exacerbated by my tooth whitening gel. Doctor Tobin filled the cavity and now the pain is gone. Also, I got to hear a great music playlist that he put together for our drilling session! Awesome!
- Jonathan B
Highly Recommend!
Dr. Tobin is always an exceptional Dentist. He is very caring and concerned about my good health and well being. He has a GREAT sense of humor. I love his professionalism and expertise.
I recommend him very highly!!
- David F
Awesome dental work!
The hygienist was lovely and very gentle, yet she did a thorough job. Dr. Tobin was awesome, as always, great staff, very clean and inviting environment, and awesome dental work! Pleased!
-Ashley S
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Encino Smile Makeover
16055 Ventura Blvd Suite 1035, Encino, CA 91436 • (818) 990-5240
Email: encinosmilemakeover@gmail.com