At La Costa Dental Excellence, Doctor Stephen and Kimberly Dankworth is often asked how to select the most basic tool of oral hygiene, the toothbrush. Picking a toothbrush can be as challenging as choosing a paint color, and there seems to be just as many choices. If you have visited the dental section of your…
Family Dentistry
47% of Adults Have Gum Disease: Are You One of Them?
A recent CDC report provides the following data related to prevalence of periodontitis in the U.S.: 47.2% of people aged 30 years and older have some form of periodontal disease. Periodontal disease increases with age, 70.1% of individuals 65 years and older have periodontal disease. This condition is more prevalent in men than women (56.4%…
3 Tips To Make Brushing Count
Many of Doctor Stephen and Kimberly Dankworth’s patients walk in for sedation dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, or dental implants. Many for routine checkups and cleanings. And most really want to know if they are brushing properly. Having patients come for treatment and leave with questions answered—from which toothpaste to buy to proper tools and techniques—is our…
Worried About Dental Visits?
“How can I overcome anxiety about visiting the dentist?” 1. Consider what the anxiety stems from. For example pain, injections, loss of control, personal space invasion, and embarrassment about fear of the unknown. 2. Discuss these fears and concerns with your dentist. 3. Expect respectful consideration and open discussion about resolving fears. Doctor Stephen and…
Yes, We Treat Bad Breath
When dental patients ask if mouthwash cures bad breath, we tell them that treating bad breath with a mouthwash is like drenching yourself with cologne instead of taking a shower. Mouthwash is only a temporary mask for odor caused by poor oral hygiene, tongue bacteria, or digestive conditions. The best-selling mouthwashes have a significant amount…
Who’s Afraid Of The Big, Bad…Dentist?
People that suffer from dental phobia (Dentophobia) may take comfort in the fact that it is a fairly common diagnosable mental condition. At least they know they are not alone and that the medical community takes it seriously. Phobias like Pteromerhanophobia: (the fear of flying) and Acrophobibia (the fear of heights) can be difficult, but…
When It’s Better Not To Brush
Though thin and partially translucent, tooth enamel is the hardest substance in the body and has the critical job of shielding teeth from constant use and the continual assault of chemicals in food and drink. Enamel also safeguards tooth nerves from hot and cold food and beverages. That’s why enamel loss often causes tooth sensitivity.…
How To Make Brushing Your Teeth A Habit
Brushing your teeth on a regular basis is one of the best things you can do for your smile. Healthy teeth make a beautiful smile. Brushing can also help with gum health and even keep your breath smelling sweet. For some of us, brushing can be a loathsome chore that gets in the way of…
Is Your Mouth Sore Something Serious?
As a dentist, one of my roles is to help you take care of your mouth. Some of my patients have dilemmas with mouth sores, thus the topic of today’s article. If you have a mouth sore that lasts more than a week or two; it is important to come in for an exam. Mouth…
What is an Orthodontic Pacifier?
Infants are born with a natural sucking reflex, and it is common for this reflex to evolve into a comforting behavior. Pacifiers can soothe a crying baby. However, parents often worry that a pacifier is dangerous for a baby’s teeth. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) advises parents that pacifiers are generally safe for babies…
