FAQ: “My Gums Gums Are Swollen Above a Tooth — Do I Have an Abscess?”
If you notice a ball of swelling around or above a single tooth, an infection could be brewing. This type of infection is also known as an abscessed tooth — and it can be pretty painful. If left untreated, it's possible for the infection to spread to other parts of...
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Tooth Fairy Payouts Take a Plunge
The Tooth Fairy's generosity appears to be waning nationwide as payouts for a newly fallen tooth have dropped a full dollar over the past two years. In a poll sponsored by Delta Dental, it was discovered that the Tooth Fairy is now leaving kids an average of $3.70....
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Can an Apple a Day Really Keep the Dentist Away?
You've heard the old saying, "An apple a day keeps the doctor away." But, what about the dentist? Can apples really keep your teeth clean and free of decay? There’s no denying the nutritional benefits of the delicious fruit. But, thinking “an apple a day keeps plaque...
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6 Ways to Stop Bleeding Gums
Bleeding gums is common occurrence for many people. In most cases, it's not serious. Common causes of sensitive or bleeding gums include: not brushing the teeth often enough, or at least twice a day using a toothbrush that is too hard or stiff using a frayed, worn...
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Legal or Not, Marijuana Can Damage Your Gums
There's no doubt that proponents of legalized marijuana have made big gains in California over the last several years. But while proponents celebrate the legalization of marijuana for recreational use, medical professionals are trying to raise awareness of the health...
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Heavy Snoring, Sleep Apnea May Be Hurting Your Heart
The medical community is issuing a stern warning to people who suffer from untreated sleep apnea: You could be at risk for heart failure. Doctors say sleep apnea, a momentary stop of breathing that occurs repeatedly while you sleep, could cause serious damage to your...
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Staying Hydrated This Winter Will Boost Your Oral Health
The winter season is upon us here in Southern California. And while that may not mean sub-zero, frigid temperatures and blizzards — it does mean wind, rain, and cool conditions. Yet even though it may be chillier outside, your body's need for hydration is the same as...
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4 Major Causes of Receding Gums — And What To Do About Them
I've talked about gum health many times over the last several years. I've also warned patients about paying close attention to receding gums. In fact, we check for receding gums by taking gum line measurements at every dental visit. Why? Besides attractively...
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CDC Warning: Kids May Be Using Too Much Toothpaste During Brushing
Many of us don't think much of how much toothpaste we put on our toothbrush. But parents, especially, may not be paying close attention to how much their kids are using either. Now the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is issuing a stern warning for...
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4 Must-Know Facts About Teeth Whitening
We know that Los Angeles is a premiere place to go see and be seen. But, truthfully, no one really wants to be seen if they have obvious stains on their teeth. Coffee, wine, tea, tobacco, and natural aging can all cause these stains — and in most cases, professional...
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