A reduction of saliva flow resulting in a dry mouth is a common issue, especially among older individuals. Dry mouth is not only uncomfortable, it can cause tooth damage. Saliva is needed to keep the mouth lubricated, wash the food from teeth, and neutralize the acids that can cause plaque. Extensive decay can develop in…
Dentures
What Can Dental Veneers Do For Your Smile?

Hello, and welcome to our La Costa Dental Excellence cosmetic dentistry blog. Today we are taking the time to answer a common question that many dental patients have. The question is, “What exactly are veneers and how are they used in cosmetic dentistry?” Smile Makeover with Porcelain Veneers Veneers are thin shells made from durable,…
Health Habits To Keep You Smiling

In today’s post, we will focus on critical behaviors that affect oral health. Of course, effective brushing and flossing are two critical habits for healthy teeth, but there are many more things we can do to preserve a healthy smile. Diet For Healthy Teeth Do eat a nutritious diet with a variety of foods. This…
Your Smile Doesn’t Have To Show Your Age

As we grow older, we may welcome many changes. However, most Carlsbad retirees do not welcome wrinkles, gray hair and dental problems. Fortunately, your smile can be attractive and healthy throughout your golden years! Even if your teeth are showing visible signs of wear such as enamel loss, staining, and chips, it is not too…
Keep Holidays Healthy For Your Teeth!

Who doesn’t love the holidays? They’re a time to take a break from your regular routine and spend time with friends and family. If you’re not careful, though, holiday celebrations can take a toll on your oral health. They commonly involve delicious food, drinks, and sweets that can put you at risk for decay and…
Healthy Lifestyles For Healthy Lifesmiles

Dental health and a brilliant smile depend on much more than simply brushing regularly. In today’s La Costa Dental Excellence post, we present a quick refresher course on vital lifestyle practices that affect oral health. You are probably familiar with most of these recommendations, but it is helpful to get a reminder once in a…
Debunking Dental Myths

Today’s La Costa Dental Excellence blog post focuses on three dental-related myths prevalent in the Encinitas area. All Sugar Is Equally Bad For Teeth We all know that sugar increases our risk of tooth decay, but some types are worse than others. Sugar-based foods that sit on the teeth are more dangerous than those that…
How Much Do You Know About Gum Disease?

1. Which of the things listed below are risk factors for gum disease (periodontitis)? a. Pregnancy b. Overbite c. Diabetes d. Genetic make-up 2. Which of the items below are possible signs of gum disease? a. Teeth that appear longer b. A change in the way dentures fit c. Loose teeth d. Tender gums 3.…
What are Habit Appliances and How are they Used?

What are habit appliances? Habit appliances are devices that are most commonly used to help youngsters stop sucking their thumbs. Habit appliances are also known as habit breaking appliances or crib appliances. Most are metal devices that are placed on the inside of the front teeth and can look like metal retainers. Some habit breaking…
Implants vs. Bridges: Know The Facts

Hello Carlsbad visitors, welcome to La Costa Dental Excellence. Let’s talk about a traditional tooth replacement option common in Encinitas: dental bridges. While dental bridges have restored smiles for generations of individuals, they are not without drawbacks. Many people with dental bridges find it impossible to keep the small areas around and under the bridge…