Porcelain Dental Crowns
When the size of a "filling" exceeds a certain proportion of the tooth, it must be replaced with a "cap," also called a "crown." Porcelain crowns look very natural and don't have a dark, metal line. Porcelain crowns reflect light with a natural healthy glow.
AnchorBridges
Dental bridges literally bridge the gap created by one or more missing teeth.
A bridge is made up of two crowns for the teeth on either side of the gap. These two anchoring teeth are called abutment teeth with a false tooth/teeth in between. These false teeth are called pontics. Bridges can be made from gold, alloys, porcelain or a combination of these materials. Dental bridges are supported by natural teeth or implants.
What are the benefits of dental bridges?
- Restore your smile
- Restore your ability to properly chew and speak
- Maintain the shape of your face
- Distribute the forces in your bite properly by replacing missing teeth
- Prevent remaining teeth from drifting out of position
AnchorDental Bonding
Bonding is similar to sculpting individual teeth with a special, tooth-like material that looks, acts and feels like the real thing. Bonding is an affordable, quick and painless way to repair many cosmetic flaws or injuries.
AnchorPeriodontics
In its simplest terms, periodontists are dentists who treat gum (periodontal) disease, which is mainly caused by plaque bacteria and affected by other factors such as pregnancy, medications, smoking, diabetes, heart disease and other health conditions. In addition to treating gum disease, periodontists offer a variety of cosmetic procedures, such as dental implants, gingival recontouring, and tissue grafts to cover exposed and sensitive root surfaces of the teeth.
AnchorOrthodontic Procedures
We offer braces and invisible braces known as “Invisialign”. Below is general information on the benefits of orthodontic treatment and procedures.
Why Straighten Teeth?
Straight teeth help an individual to effectively bite, chew and speak. Straight teeth contribute to healthy teeth and gums. Properly aligned teeth and jaws may alleviate or prevent physical health problems. Teeth that work better also tend to look better. A beautiful smile is the outcome of orthodontic treatment.
An attractive smile is a wonderful asset. It contributes to self-esteem, self-confidence and self-image — important qualities at every age. A pleasing appearance is a vital component of self-confidence. A person's self-esteem often improves as orthodontic treatment brings teeth, lips and face into proportion. In this way, orthodontic treatment can benefit social and career success, as well as improve a person’s general attitude toward life.
Asymmetrical Jaws
You may be surprised to learn that straight teeth are less prone to decay, gum disease and injury. As for injuries to teeth, protruding upper teeth are more likely to be broken in an accident. When repositioned and aligned with other teeth, these teeth are likely going to be at a decreased risk for fracture.
Treatment by an orthodontist to correct a problem early may be less costly than the restorative dental care required to treat more serious problems that can develop in later years.
AnchorDental Emergencies
Stay calm. Many dental problems can be dealt with at home until you have an opportunity to see your dentist.
If your emergency is life-threatening or you are in extreme pain, dial 911, and notify emergency medical professionals immediately.
Dental Emergencies
- General Problems
- Jaw Problems
- Tooth Problems
- Orthodontic Problems
AnchorGeneral Problems
Numbness
- Usually lasts for approximately 2 hours after treatment.
- If still experiencing numbness after 4-6 hours, contact your dentist.
Pain
- If you are experiencing pain, even after taking over-the-counter pain relievers, contact your dentist for a possible prescription.
Bleeding
- If bleeding is persistent and you are unable to stop with pressure, contact your dentist immediately.
Infection
- Rinse mouth with warm salt water.
- If swelling persists, contact your dentist.
Jaw Problems
Jaw Injur
1. If teeth fit together properly when the mouth is closed:
a.Apply ice to control swelling, and take ibuprofen or similar remedy to control pain.
b.Restrict diet to soft foods, and if no improvement occurs within 24 hours, contact your dentist.
Injury to the Soft Tissues (Gums, Cheek, Tongue) of Mouth- Gently rinse mouth with cold water.
- Apply pressure to wound with clean cloth, gauze or tissue.
- If bleeding persists, contact your dentist or visit a medical emergency room.
Tooth Problems
Broken/Fractured Tooth
- Clean the injured area, and apply ice to minimize swelling.
- Save the broken piece (for possible reattachment).
- Call your dentist immediately.
Extruded Tooth (Tooth Pushed Out of Place)
- If possible, Gently push back in place
- Call your dentist.
Evulsed Tooth (Tooth Knocked Out)
- Gently rinse off tooth while holding it by the crown (top).
- Attempt to place back in socket, or if not possible, store briefly in cold milk, salt water or between cheek and gums.
- Call your dentist immediately.
AnchorOrthodontics
Lost Wire or Ligature
- If rubber ligature is found, you may be able to put it back in place using sterile tweezers.
- Contact your orthodontist during regular business hours.
Broken Wire or Ligature Poking
- Use a Q-Tip or pencil eraser to push the wire so that it is flat against the tooth and/or cover it with relief wax.
- Contact your orthodontist during regular business hours.
Food Trapped Between Teeth
- Not an emergency but can be uncomfortable.
- Tie a small knot in the middle of some dental floss to help remove food, or use an interproximal brush or toothpick to dislodge the food.
Discomfort
- Discomfort is normal for a day or two after braces or retainers are adjusted.
- To help alleviate pain, rinse with warm salt water or take an over-the-counter pain reliever.
Mouth Sores
- Apply topical anesthetic, such as Oragel, as needed to alleviate the discomfort.
Loose or Missing Bracket
- Notify the orthodontist's office during regular business hours.
Piece of Appliance is Swallowed or Aspirated
- If appliance was aspirated (inhaled), call 911.
- If swallowed, contact your general dentist.
- Notify the orthodontist office during regular business hours.
Insurance Information
We accept and honor most dental insurance plans including Medi-Cal. The following are just a few of the dental insurance carriers we’re providers for:
- Delta
- MetLife
- Aetna
- Blue Cross
- United Concordia
- PacifiCare
- Guardian
- Ameritas
- Cigna
- Dentemax
Please call our office for more details at (714) 226-9630.
Insurance FAQ
What’s the difference between indemnity, PPO, HMO and discount insurance plans?
Indemnity or traditional insurance
reimburses members or dentists at the dentist’s UCR (usual, customary and reasonable fee). This allows the subscriber to go to any dental office without being limited to a panel.
PPO
(Preferred Provider Organization) is the most common form of insurance. They provide members with a list of participating dentists to choose from. The dentists on this list have agreed to a lower fee schedule, which provides you with greater cost savings. They also assist with insurance billing. Most companies pay 50% on major treatment (crowns, bridges, partials), 80% for basic care (fillings) and up to 100% for preventative care (exams, X-rays, basic cleanings). Annual maximums generally range from $1,000 to $2,000.
HMO, also known as capitated or prepaid insurance, was designed to provide members with basic care at the lowest rate. Participating providers receive a monthly capitation check for patients assigned to the office. This amount is only a few dollars and is intended to offset the administrative costs. HMOs generally don’t pay for services rendered. Fees are usually greatly reduced, but the patient is solely responsible for paying the doctor.
Discount plans
simply consist of a panel of dentists that have agreed to a reduced rate. The subscriber is solely responsible for the entire portion. There is no billing or annual maximums.
What’s a covered benefit?
Treatment that is recommended by a dentist, listed on the fee schedule and accepted under the terms of your group’s plan.
What’s optional treatment?
This is treatment that is either not listed on your fee schedule or costs more than the minimum to restore the tooth back to its original function.