3 Oral Cancer Signs Not to Ignore

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No one wants to hear the word “cancer,” but knowing the signs to look for to get treatment quickly is an important part of protecting your health. For patients in Valencia, West Valley, and Palmdale, CA, the team at Heritage Oral Surgery & Implant Centers wants to provide education about oral cancer signs and symptoms to watch for. If you spot any of these signs, you’ll want to get an evaluation from our Valencia oral surgeons right away.

Growth, Lumps, or Sores

One of the most obvious signs of oral cancer is a growth, sore, or lump in your mouth that won’t go away. This growth can be on the gums, cheeks, or lips. The sooner you get an evaluation, the faster you can treat the problem and be on your way to healing.

Pain in the Mouth or Ear

Many things can cause pain in the mouth, but most of them do require a checkup to treat. For example, you can have pain due to a cavity or injury to the gum, and this needs to be treated. Consistent pain in the mouth, especially without a known cause, is another red flag for oral cancer. However, this pain can also radiate into the ear or even the throat. If you have pain in any part of your body that’s not healing, it’s a good idea to get it checked out. If that pain is in or around the mouth, then get checked out by a dental professional.

Loose Teeth

Adult teeth shouldn’t fall out. If you’re noticing that yours are becoming loose, then it’s a sure sign of some sort of problem. While that problem may not end up being cancer, you’ll want to get it looked at quickly by an oral pathology professional. Even if it’s not oral cancer, the sooner you get treatment, the greater the likelihood that you can save your teeth.

If you suspect that you have oral cancer, act quickly. Early treatment is essential to protecting your health and treating the cancer successfully. If you’re in Valencia, West Valley, or Palmdale, reach out to the team at Heritage Oral Surgery & Implant Centers to schedule an appointment.

woman receiving dental work

What are the Best Foods to Stock Up on Before Oral Surgery?

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Are you anticipating oral orjaw surgery in Rockledge, FL? If so, one of the biggest questions you may have is what kinds of foods you will be able to eat while in recovery. Take a look at a few foods to stock up on below.

What are the Best Foods to Stock Up on Before Oral Surgery?

Are you anticipating oral orjaw surgery in Rockledge, FL? If so, one of the biggest questions you may have is what kinds of foods you will be able to eat while in recovery. Take a look at a few foods to stock up on below.

Soft and Nutrient-Rich Foods
One of the most important things to keep in mind after oral surgery is you don’t want to eat anything that could be abrasive to your recovering mouth tissues. The dentist will likely advise you to stay away from anything that is really chewy or crunchy, anything steaming hot, or anything super spicy that could be irritating to the gum tissues. Therefore, the best plan is to stick to soft, nutrient-rich foods like:

Smoothies made with yogurt, fruits, and leafy greens
Mashed potatoes or sweet potatoes
Puréed soups like butternut squash or vegetable soup
Greek yogurt or cottage cheese
Applesauce or mashed bananas
Avocado or hummus spread on soft bread
Protein shakes or meal replacement drinks
Oatmeal or porridge with added fruits or nuts for extra nutrients
Non-Acidic Beverages
Many beverages people consume every day contain high levels of citric acid. After oral surgery, citric acid can be irritating to any incisions you have in the soft tissues in your mouth, which can be uncomfortable. However, this can also impede the healing process if the soft tissues are exposed to too much acidic fluid. Therefore, before the day of your surgery, be sure to stock up on bottled water or other beverages that don’t contain a lot of acid. Many fruit juices and soft drinks will need to be avoided for the first few days.

Staples for Easy Meal Preparation
Depending on the type of oral surgery you have experienced, you may need to take it easy for a day or two and rest to support recovery. Therefore, it is best to make sure your pantry is stocked with staples for easy foods or pre-prepared meals if you don’t have someone at home to help you. For example, it may be helpful to have something like quick-cooking oatmeal on hand for breakfast or even pre-prepared, well-steamed vegetables.

Discuss Your Recovery with a Valencia Oral Surgeon
When you receive care from the bestoral surgeon in Valencia, CA, they will make sure you know exactly what to expect during recovery. Reach out to Heritage Oral Surgery & Implant Centers for an appointment.

Cracked tooth, splitted. Medically accurate 3D illustration

Why Is My Cracked Tooth a Problem?  

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If you have a cracked tooth, your dentist may or may not recommend treatment. Some cracks can become a problem, while others may exist for years without creating issues.

If your dentist recommends treatment for your cracked tooth, whether that’s with a crown, bonding or tooth extraction in Valencia, West Valley and Palmdale CA, you may be wondering why (especially if you’re not in pain!) Here we explore the reasons why a cracked tooth can be an issue and what your dentist may choose to do about it.

What caused my cracked tooth?

There are many factors that can contribute to a cracked tooth, including:

  • Chewing hard candy, corn kernels, ice
  • Age (older teeth tend to crack more easily than younger teeth)
  • Previous dental procedures (root canals can weaken the tooth, leading to cracks)
  • Grinding your teeth due to stress or unconsciously at night

What are the symptoms of a cracked tooth?

Sometimes it’s hard to tell if your tooth is fractured because the symptoms can seem similar to other symptoms. Some signs to watch for include:

  • Pain that comes and goes, especially when biting down
  • Sensitivity to extreme temperatures
  • Sensitivity to sweet things

If you’re noticing any of these signs, talk to your dental professional.

If I’m not experiencing pain and other symptoms, why is my cracked tooth a problem?

Even if you’re not experiencing pain and other symptoms, a cracked tooth can be a problem because a crack can allow an infection into the tender pulp of the tooth. When this happens, infection can cause pain and other problems.

Some people are especially vulnerable to infections, like people who are immunocompromised. If you have a crack in your tooth, it’s important for your dentist to know about it so they can decide on the next steps.

Do you have a cracked tooth? Talk to your dentist.

A cracked tooth can turn into a serious problem leading to a tooth extraction or an infection. If you believe you have a cracked tooth, talk to your dental provider in Valencia, West Valley and Palmdale CA. At Heritage Oral Surgery & Implant Centers, we can help you address the problems that may come from a cracked tooth. Contact us today at one of our three locations.

 

How to Qualify as a Candidate For Dental Implants

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If you have one or more teeth missing, you may be wondering if you would be a good candidate for dental implants in Palmdale, CA. Becoming more popular with people who have suffered from low self-esteem and various problems related to their dental issues, today’s dental implants use the latest technology and look like real teeth. To qualify as an excellent candidate for this procedure, here are some things your dentist will look for during your consultation.

Gums and Teeth in Good Health

While you may have one or more teeth missing, your dentist will examine you to make sure your gums and remaining teeth are still healthy. This is crucial, since having a healthy jawbone will be necessary to support the implants once they are in place. Otherwise, they could become loose later on.

Don’t be a Smoker

While being a smoker won’t automatically disqualify you from being a candidate for dental implants, it won’t help your chances. Since smoking can impede the healing process once dental implants are installed, your dentist may be concerned about the increased risk you may face for developing an infection or other problems.

Excellent Oral Hygiene Routine

To really impress your Palmdale, CA dentist and put yourself high on the list of being a good candidate for dental implants, demonstrate that you already have an excellent oral hygiene routine. By brushing at least twice per day, flossing once daily, and perhaps taking a swig of mouthwash each day as well, your dentist will know the risk of infection is very low, and that you will likely follow their instructions after your procedure.

Realistic Expectations

Finally, your dentist will talk with you in-depth to find out if you have realistic expectations about dental implants in Palmdale, CA. Since the entire process can take as much as 12 months for all the implants to be installed and healed, you’ll need to not only demonstrate realistic expectations, but also the level of patience that will be required along the way.

If you feel you meet this criteria and are interested in obtaining dental implants, don’t wait any longer. Since it’s time for your regular dental checkup, make an appointment with your dentist in Palmdale, CA to find out if dental implants are a viable option.

Why Would I Need a Bone Graft at the Dentist?

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A bone graft may not seem like a procedure you might receive at the dentist, but it may actually be needed for a variety of reasons. While your teeth aren’t made from bone, your jaw certainly is. Considering this support is what holds the teeth and keeps them strong enough to keep chewing, bone grafts can be exactly what you need to improve your oral health. If you’re considering one, it helps to know not just why you would need one, but what it is and what to expect.

What Is a Dental Bone Graft?

A dental bone graft is a procedure for the jaw to replace lost bone or to add support to existing bone. While bone is usually taken from a different part of your body to make the graft, there are synthetic versions available. The preferred standard will be from either your hip, shin, or the back of the jaw, as it’s generally considered the safest option. A dentist will first make a cut in the jaw and then attach the extra material to the jaw. Pain management can usually be accomplished with ice and over-the-counter pain relievers.

Why Would I Need One?

Tooth loss, gum disease, or dental implants can all affect the amount of bone you have in your jaw. Receding gums can begin to erode the jaw, causing it to weaken under constant pressure from chewing. Or if you need screws attached for the artificial roots of a missing tooth, your jaw will need to be strong enough to handle the pressure. If you use your own bone, it usually encourages the support in your jaw to both accept the new material and heal faster. There are different types of bone grafts available, and your dentist can tell you more about the right one for you.

To a certain extent, bone loss is unavoidable as we age. Some people might need a graft even after taking care of their teeth as well as one could be expected to care for them. The right dentist can make up for this though by adding enough support to reduce pain and keep your jaw healthy and strong.

 

5 Keys to Keeping Your Natural Teeth For a Lifetime  

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As a child, your parents probably told you how to take care of your teeth. They may have helped you brush your teeth for the first time and taught you how to floss. You may have even had instruction at school, in kindergarten. Yet every year, millions of people lose their teeth to decay or some other reason. What’s the secret to keeping your natural teeth for a lifetime? Your Valencia dentist has the answers for you.

1. Getting Rid of Plaque

Brushing and flossing at home aren’t enough to ensure that you keep your natural teeth for a lifetime. Plaque buildup can happen to anyone. And the thing is, you can develop plaque in between teeth, where brushing and flossing can’t reach. Plaque is a substance where bacteria thrive. Once you have bacteria thriving in your mouth, you can be sure to have decay and other trouble.

2. Regular Teeth Cleanings

Your dental hygienist is one key to keeping your natural teeth for a lifetime. Dental hygienists go to school for a long time to learn how to thoroughly and effectively rid teeth of plaque. So if you really want to keep your natural teeth for as long as you live, you’ll make sure you get professional teeth cleanings at least once every six months, or more frequently if necessary.

3. Get Dental Sealants

Dental sealants are kind of protective cover for your teeth. They offer a barrier or resistance to bacteria that can damage your teeth and lead to teeth loss. Talk to your dentist in Valencia to find out if dental sealants are something that you should consider.

4. Avoid Sugar

It’s well-known by now that sugar is a food for bacteria. Mouth bacteria feed on bacteria and use it to thrive under certain conditions. If you are really committed to keeping your natural teeth, then avoid sugar in all its forms.

5. Eat a Varied Diet

Your teeth and gums require vitamins and nutrients to remain healthy. You can ensure that your teeth and gums—as well as your entire body—get what is needed by eating a varied diet that includes vegetables, fruits, and protein.

Your dentist in Valencia is key to keeping your natural teeth for a lifetime. For more tips, please contact us today!

Tips for Preventing a TMJ Flare-up

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The temporomandibular joint connects the jaw to the skull. This connection occurs just beneath the ears on either side of the head. Each of these complex joints moves back and forth, up and down, and from side to side. The nearly constant use of this joint makes it is easy to see why temporomandibular disorders (TMD) develop. Temporomandibular Joint Syndrome (TMJ) is one of these disorders.

What is TMJ?

This syndrome causes an individual to experience an array of bothersome symptoms, including pain. Knowing what triggers a TMJ flare up and then avoiding those triggers can help an individual prevent flare-ups of the temporomandibular joint.

The Importance of Attaining the Proper Diagnosis

Sometimes, temporomandibular disorders are difficult to diagnose because the symptoms a patient experiences mimic those associated with other conditions. To ensure a patient receives the most relevant treatment, attaining the proper diagnosis is essential. The experienced Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons at Heritage Oral Surgery and Implant Centers can quickly recognize the signs and symptoms that indicate a patient has a temporomandibular disorder.

Symptoms of a TMD can include:

  • Intense headaches – characteristics of these headaches include a piercing pain, throbbing or a constant ache.
  • Pain in the jaw with or without temporomandibular joint pain – this pain can range from mild to severe, be continuous or just come and go.
  • Ear pain – can range from a dull ache to an intense, searing pain.
  • Jaw popping or clicking – these symptoms typically occur while chewing, talking or opening the mouth.
  • Tinnitus – ringing in the ears.
  • Lockjaw – this problem occurs when the temporomandibular joints become misaligned. The individual is unable to open his or her mouth until the joints are properly realigned.
  • Visible inflammation – seen in the temporomandibular joint that is affected.

A flare-up can occur without warning, however, seeking care from an experienced Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon, and using the tips below can reduce the duration and intensity of a flare-up, or prevent them altogether.

6 Tips for Preventing a TMJ Flare Up

  1. Reduce Stress Levels

Stress can lead to the grinding or clenching of teeth. This additional pressure strains the facial muscles and the temporomandibular joints, causing irritation. Meditation and yoga are great ways to reduce stress.

  1. Stop Eating Foods that Are Chewy, Gummy or Hard

Eating hard, chewy or gummy candy as well as bagels, whole apples and nuts can cause a flare-up.

  1. Quit Overworking the Neck Muscles

The muscles responsible for controlling breathing, talking, biting, chewing and head posture work in conjunction with the muscles in the neck. If the neck muscles are tired and strained, other muscles must be used, which leads to an imbalance. This imbalance triggers the pain associated with TMJ.

  1. Avoid Becoming Dehydrated

Dehydration decreases the effectiveness of the body’s natural joint lubrication, which aggravates the joint and can lead to a TMJ flare-up. Avoiding caffeine, drinking plenty of water and eating foods with a high-water content (e.g., cucumbers, cantaloupe, tomatoes, etc.,) can help an individual remain well hydrated.

  1. Eat Well and Take a Daily Vitamin

If an individual’s Vitamin D level is deficient, he or she may experience muscle pain in the jaw.

  1. Use a Firm Pillow and Sleep on Your Back

By sleeping on the back with a pillow that offers an adequate amount of support for your head and neck, there is no pressure being placed on the jaw.

If you are experiencing pain in your jaw, or would like to learn more about the treatments for TMD, contact one of the Heritage Oral Surgery and Implant Centers below to schedule an appointment.

The Heritage Oral Surgery and Implant Centers are in:

  • Valencia – Tel: 661-253-3500, 27450 Tourney Road, Suite 160.
  • West Valley/Canoga Park – Tel: 818-703-8200, 22142 Sherman Way, Suite 201.
  • Palmdale – Tel: 661-538-1400, 843 Auto Center Drive, Suite B.

 

How Diet Affects Oral Health

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While children are at risk for developing cavities, adults are too, especially as they age. When considering the results of a recent study published in the Journal of Aging Research and Clinical Practice, the importance of proper nutrition is evident. According to this study, severe tooth loss in the elderly serves as a key indicator of a compromised diet.

Dietary Factors Directly Affect Oral Health

Research has established that an individual’s dietary choices directly relate to the development of cavities and erosion of the tooth enamel, which is the protective coating over each tooth. Once the enamel is compromised, bacteria and plaque can build up, resulting in cavities.

Foods Offering the Highest Level of Nutrition

Obviously, Fresh Fruits and Veggies

Besides offering vitamins and minerals, these foods also contain water and fiber. The water and fiber help balance the natural sugars that these foods contain.

Eating raw fruits and veggies that are crunchy increases saliva production. This increase in saliva benefits the teeth because it helps wash away any food particles or acids that remain in the mouth. Left in the mouth too long, these acids and particles can harm the teeth.

Berries and Citrus Fruits

These fruits are full of vitamin C and calcium, however, they also contain natural sugar and citrus fruit is acidic, so limited consumption is recommended. Furthermore, after eating any type of acidic food, rinsing your mouth is essential. This acid can wreak havoc on the enamel of your teeth.

Dark leafy greens (e.g., kale, spinach, etc.) are rich in calcium and vitamin C, both of which help fight periodontal disease. In addition, these vegetables have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Shiitake mushrooms are considered a superfood because they contain an antibacterial compound (lentinan) that has the ability to prevent bacterial growth. In addition, these mushrooms help prevent plaque buildup on the teeth.

Snacks

Choose wholesome snacks that are sugar-free. Sticky treats (e.g., fruit snacks and caramels, etc.) attach to the grooves of your teeth, providing the bacteria with plenty of food. It is recommended that all sweets be consumed at the same time as a meal because the excess saliva that is created while eating will help to dilute and then wash the sugars away.

Sugar remains as one of the main reasons for dental issues, here is why:

Bacteria in your mouth eat the sugar and then release an acid that damages the teeth. Once decay begins, if the cavity remains untreated, it will continue to develop and eventually result in a painful toothache.

Dairy and Protein

Dairy products contain casein, which helps neutralize the acids that the bacteria in the mouth produce. These products include yogurt and cheese.

Eating lean proteins rich in phosphorous strengthens the teeth. These proteins include eggs, meat, poultry, milk and fish. Other forms of fiber, minerals and protein include beans, seeds and nuts.

Cleaning Your Teeth When Brushing is Delayed

If the ability to brush is delayed, chewing sugar-free gum or fibrous vegetables can help clean your teeth.

Strong, healthy teeth can prevent tooth loss and reduce the likelihood of developing painful conditions like temporomandibular jaw (TMJ) syndrome. At Heritage Oral Surgery & Implant Centers, we replace missing teeth and treat TMJ. To learn more, contact one of our centers.