Monthly Archives: October 2016

 Top Five Myths Surrounding Teeth Whitening | Manhattan Beach, CA

Posted on by

close up smile red lipstick

When you’re taking a selfie and smile, do notice that your pearly whites have become more dull or yellow? If so, you’ve probably considered teeth whitening but may have put it off by the several different myths and misconceptions. Many people may get nervous or scared about whitening, but in all reality it’s a safe dental procedure. To help you decipher the myths from the truth, I have complied a list of myths surrounding teeth whitening.

Myth #1: Teeth whitening harms your tooth enamel.

Fact: It’s a common misconception that teeth whitening works by essentially melting off or laser-zapping the outer layer of your tooth enamel, which is completely untrue. Tooth bleaching actually works by opening the pores in your teeth and allowing the cleaning agent to get into the inner structure and clean it of the stains. Over time the pores in your teeth will close again.

Myth #2: If your teeth are sensitive, you should skip teeth whitening.

Fact: While you don’t have to, you may want to consider custom teeth whitening trays over over-the-counter products. This is mostly because patients have more control with their sensitivity using custom teeth whitening trays.

Myth #3: Teeth whitening work for everyone.

Fact: It’s a fact that everyone’s teeth darken with age, not just from coffee and wine, the outer layer of white enamel wears over time, allowing the natural yellow color of dentin to show through. With that being said, many people aren’t ideal candidates for teeth whitening due to the natural color that becomes exposed. However, there are other dental treatments that can whiten your teeth.

Myth #4: You can whiten crowns and fillings.

Fact: Unfortunately, this is untrue. Crowns, fillings and veneers cannot be whitened. If you do have to get a crown or veneer, many dentists suggest that you have your teeth whitened beforehand or to get a whiter shade of the restoration if you do plan on whitening your teeth.

Myth #5: Bleaching last forever.

Fact: Teeth whitening actually last up to two years but the whiteness begins to fade after about 2 to 3 months. It’s almost like getting your hair dyed, you still need to get touch ups every few months. Most dentist recommend that you should get your teeth touched up every 6 months. And if you’re a heavy coffee, soda or tea drinker or if you’re smoker, the luster will fade a lot quicker.

If you’re interested in teeth whitening treatments, contact Dr. Anthony Yamada DDS at 310-546-2595 to schedule a consultation today. Or visit www.anthonyyamadadds.com for additional information regarding teeth whitening.

Proudly serving Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach, El Segundo, Redondo Beach, Torrance and all surrounding areas.

How to Prevent Tooth Decay | Manhattan Beach, CA

Posted on by

oral hygiene

Tooth decay is one of the most common dental problems that dentists see among patients. This is the destruction of your tooth structure; tooth decay can affect both your tooth enamel and dentine. Tooth decay typically occurs when foods containing carbohydrates, such as bread, cereals, milk or candy, are left on your teeth.

The good news is that tooth decay is preventable. Practicing proper oral hygiene and visiting your dentist for regular checkups can help aid in preventing tooth decay. There also a few other steps you can take to protect both your teeth and gums, which include the following:

  • Brush your teeth daily. It’s important to brush your teeth two times a day, for two minutes each session. This accompanied with flossing can go a long way in preventing tooth decay, cavities and gum disease.
  • Snack on healthy foods. It’s best to avoid eating sweets that may potentially alter your blood sugar and damage your health. Try eating more healthy snacks that contain healthy proteins and fats that will aid in a healthy body, this in turn can prevent tooth decay.
  • Ask about dental sealants. This is a method that is performed by dentists. Dental sealants are a plastic coating that’s applied to the back molars to protect them from tooth decay.
  • Rinse with fluoride. Rinse your mouth out daily with mouthwash that contains fluoride. Some mouthwashes even have antiseptic ingredients that can help kill bacteria that causes plaque.
  • Visit your dentist regularly. Visiting your dentist for routine checkups and professional teeth cleanings will help prevent tooth decay immensely. Professional cleanings are performed by dentists to remove plaque build-up that can lead to tooth decay.

As you can see, there are several simple ways that you can prevent tooth decay. One study even found that chewing gum that contains xylitol can temporarily slow the growth of the bacteria that causes tooth decay.

If you suspect that you may be suffering from tooth decay, contact Dr. Anthony Yamada, DDS at 310-546-2595 to schedule an appointment today. For additional information regarding tooth decay or oral health please visit www.anthonyyamadadds.com.

Proudly serving Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach, El Segundo, Redondo Beach and Torrance.