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Some people experience anxiety and fear when visiting the dentist. To make the experience of caring for your teeth as pleasant for you as possible, we offer sedation dentistry. Dr. Tomazin is a dental anesthesiologist and can use anesthesia to help nervous adults, children, or patients with special needs be more comfortable during their dental visit.
Why We Offer Sedation Dentistry
Dr. Tomazin is a deeply caring dentist who makes every effort to provide the best dental care experience for his patients. However, some people still feel anxious or scared about going to the dentist. Children may become uncooperative and restless in the dentist’s chair. Individuals with certain health problems such as heart troubles, gag-reflex, and disabilities may require sedation for safety. A previously unpleasant dental visit can affect individuals so strongly that they may avoid the dentist altogether, and the resulting lack of regular checkups can lead to tooth decay and permanent tooth loss.
To assuage these problems, we offer sedation dental services. Sedation dentistry allows vulnerable individuals to get the dental care they need without the apprehension or fear. Various treatment modalities offered by our expert dental anesthesiologist, Dr. Chad Tomazin, help patients feel comfortable and allow the dental treatments to proceed as smoothly as possible. With sedation dentistry, patients who have previously been unable or unwilling to go to the dentist as frequently as they need to can receive the necessary dental treatments that will help prevent tooth decay and other dental problems.
Our Sedation and Anesthesia Services
We offer a variety of sedation and anesthesia services to accommodate every patient’s needs. In addition to local anesthesia and oral sedation, we offer intravenous sedation to help patients relax more deeply. Our sedation treatments range from minimal (aware but relaxed) to deep sedation (not easily aroused). We also offer general anesthesia so that the patient can be completely unconscious and unresponsive for the duration of the procedure. The patient is carefully monitored while under any of these forms of sedation and anesthesia. Dr. Tomazin finds sedation dentistry to be incredibly beneficial for many patients. Thanks to sedation dentistry, all interested patients—even those who dread going to the dentist—can receive dental treatment in a relaxed or sedated state.
Sedation dentistry can help you or a loved one have a more positive experience when visiting the dentist. To learn about sedation dentistry with our dentist and dental anesthesiologist, Dr. Chad Tomazin, schedule your appointment by calling (951) 686-3666 or by completing our online contact form today.
Metal fillings have been used on teeth since the 1800s and are still used in dentistry today. However, metal fillings contain mercury, a metal known to have toxic effects on the body. Our biological dentist, Dr. Chad Tomazin, can exchange your metal fillings for composite fillings. Not only will this eliminate a health hazard, but it will also give you a more beautiful smile.
The Aesthetic Downsides of Metal Fillings
The aesthetic issue with metal fillings is that they are easy to see. Metal fillings are silver in color, which does not match the color of the affected tooth or surrounding teeth. Consequently, when you smile or open your mouth, the world can see your fillings. This detracts from your appearance and draws attention to your unfortunate history of cavities.
The Health Hazards of Metal Fillings
Additionally, “silver” amalgam fillings are a health hazard because they are 50 percent mercury. Because of this, metal fillings emit mercury vapor that can enter the bloodstream. The potential health effects of mercury exposure are notable. It can cause harm to the immune, cardiac, respiratory, digestive, and urinary systems, and it has also been shown to cause brain cell damage. Some physicians may even encourage you to have your metal fillings removed due to the risks they pose to your health.
Switching From Metal to Composite Fillings
Regarding both aesthetics and health hazards, composite fillings have been shown to be better for your smile. Composite fillings are tooth-colored and are hardly noticeable because they blend with the surrounding teeth. They contain no mercury, making them far less of a health hazard than amalgam fillings. Even if you already have multiple metal fillings, you can have them exchanged for more biocompatible materials.
The removal process for metal fillings requires advanced technical equipment and should be performed by a biological dentist who can adequately address the issues. Because mercury vapor is released upon removal of a metal filling, special techniques and suction devices are required to minimize exposure for the patient and dental team. Dr. Tomazin works with your doctor’s recommendations regarding mercury removal and can help you achieve a more holistic and biocompatible approach to dentistry.
By having your metal fillings exchanged for a safer option, you can improve your smile and reduce your health risks. To learn more about science-based biological and holistic dentistry, contact us to schedule an appointment with Dr. Tomazin. Call (951) 686-3666 or complete our online contact form to reach us today.
A beautiful smile is marked by straight, white, and symmetrical teeth. Is your smile lacking in any of these areas? Thin sheets of porcelain called porcelain veneers can be permanently cemented to your teeth to correct discoloration, chips, breaks, crookedness, and other cosmetic and functional concerns. Dr. Tomazin can give your smile a makeover by using porcelain veneers as a permanent and easy solution to improve the aesthetics and function of your teeth.
Reason #1: Treatment Is Quick and Easy
Getting porcelain veneers is nothing like those dental treatments that take months or years to produce real results. In just one or two office visits, your veneers can be permanently attached to your teeth for a quick and easy solution with immediate results.
Reason #2: Get Whiter, Natural-looking Teeth
Teeth whitening treatments aren’t for everyone. If you can’t receive whitening treatments or if whitening treatments haven’t produced the results you were hoping for, veneers can give you white teeth here and now. They’re also stain-resistant and blend naturally with the rest of your teeth.
Reason #3: Fix Crooked or Misshapen Teeth
If you have crooked or misshapen teeth, you don’t have to spend months undergoing orthodontic treatments. Veneers can be placed over your teeth to improve their appearance and give you a straighter smile with just two treatments.
Reason #4: Hide Chips, Cracks, or Breaks
Chipped, cracked, and broken teeth can easily be disguised with porcelain veneers. Veneers can even correct problems with chewing or speech impediments caused by broken teeth.
Reason #5: Improve Your Bite
Believe it or not, teeth straightening treatments aren’t the only way to improve your bite. Porcelain veneers can improve your bite as well and help your teeth align properly for improved form, function, and appearance.
Reason #6: Close Gaps
Do you have gaps between your teeth? Veneers can be made slightly wider than your natural tooth to erase the gap so that your teeth are flush together. They can even hide significant gaps caused by missing teeth.
Reason #7: Treatment Is Painless
Getting porcelain veneers is a simple and painless treatment. Unlike other dental treatments that can cause substantial oral pain, veneers are quickly and easily attached to the teeth in a painless process.
Reason #8: They’re Incredibly Durable
Veneers are a long-lasting solution and are incredibly durable. Getting porcelain veneers on your teeth can protect your teeth and your smile for many years.
Reason #9: A Versatile and Multipurpose Solution
Porcelain veneers are the only dental treatment that can fix discoloration, crookedness, and tooth shape all at once. Instead of having to undergo multiple different treatments, you can receive veneers to resolve your concerns with just one or two office appointments.
Dr. Chad Tomazin can use porcelain dental veneers to transform your smile and your appearance. To learn more, request your appointment with Dr. Tomazin by calling (951) 686-3666 or by filling out our online contact form today.
Everyone wants their teeth to be, as it were, “pearly whites.” But is teeth whitening safe? When done properly using the right products, always under the care of your dentist, teeth whitening can be entirely safe and can give you the beautifully white smile you desire.
Why Don’t Teeth Stay Naturally White?
Tooth enamel is naturally white, but certain foods and drinks can discolor it. Common culprits are coffee, tea, soda, wine, sweets, citrus, berries, tomatoes, and certain spices. Minimizing your consumption of these foods and drinks can reduce staining. However, for most of us, it’s not realistic to avoid these substances entirely. Doing so can even deprive you of certain nutrients that are critical to your overall health. Therefore, it is understandable that your teeth may lose some of their whiteness and brightness as you get older.
Factors That Affect the Safety, Efficacy, and Comfort of Teeth Whitening Solutions
FDA Approved With the ADA Seal of Acceptance
To ensure that your teeth whitening solution is safe, only use products that are FDA approved and have the ADA Seal of Acceptance, which is administered for over-the-counter products. “Clinically proven” assures you that the product has been put through rigorous testing and is indeed safe for use. It also determines whether the treatment is effective. If you purchase a product that claims to whiten teeth but a note somewhere on the product says, “This statement has not been evaluated by the FDA,” you have no guarantees and will be using it at your own risk. Luckily, there are plenty of teeth whitening products out there with these safety labels for you to choose from.
Your Dental Health
If your teeth and gums are not in good condition, teeth whitening may NOT be safe for you. For instance, if your teeth have holes or cracks, tooth bleaching products could seep through and damage the tooth root. Similarly, if your teeth have worn enamel or if you have cavities or gum disease, your dentist may discourage you from bleaching your teeth. However, if your teeth are generally healthy, your dentist will more than likely approve teeth whitening as an appropriate treatment for you.
Having Sensitive Teeth or Gums
Some people have naturally sensitive teeth or gums. Teeth and gum sensitivity after using whitening agents is only temporary and usually goes away within 48 hours. Sensitivity may increase and become more uncomfortable with prolonged use of the treatment.
Prolonged Use
The longer you use a teeth whitening solution, the greater your tooth sensitivity may become. There is not enough information available to safely recommend unsupervised long-term use or repeated use of teeth whitening products. If you are interested in a long-term solution or if you need severe teeth whitening, talk to your dentist about solutions that will be appropriate for you.
Reliable Teeth Whitening Solutions
There are two types of teeth whitening solutions: bleaching products, which can remove surface stains and deep stains, and non-bleaching products, which can remove surface stains only. Various treatments and solutions can be purchased at drug stores, given by your dentist for at-home use, or administered by your dentist in the dental office.
- Take-Home Teeth Whitening: At-home bleaching trays can be custom-fitted to your teeth to give you a whiter smile within just a few weeks. Teeth whitening strips may also be recommended. At-home solutions are often quite affordable and easy to use.
- In-Office Teeth Whitening: A tooth bleaching gel can be applied during a two-hour treatment session at the dentist’s office. This quick and effective treatment can produce immediate and excellent results.
Talk to Your Dentist First
Regardless of which treatment you have chosen, talk to your dentist before using any teeth whitening solution. Your dentist will assess your dental and oral health to determine if bleaching your teeth is a good form of treatment. It is always best to entrust your teeth whitening to dental experts to ensure safe treatment and the best results. With professional monitoring, you can avoid risking any damage, severe discomfort, or other issues and still achieve a whiter and brighter smile.
Chad Tomazin, DDS offers in-office and at-home teeth whitening solutions at his dental practice in Riverside, California. To request your appointment with Dr. Tomazin, call (951) 686-3666 or fill out our online contact form today.
While chipping a tooth is often a result of a fall, accident, or an intense contact sport like hockey, most find it surprising that chipped teeth can also occur from the seemingly harmless habits and choices of everyday life. Find out what may be causing your chipped teeth from the list below.
Tongue piercings
Many people are not aware that tongue piercings can not only increase the risk of getting an infection in the mouth, but they can also lead to chipped teeth. Biting on tongue jewelry, either habitually or on accident, can lead to cracks, chips, and other damage. According to research published in the Journal of Periodontology, 47 percent of people who wear tongue jewelry for at least four years have experienced chipped teeth.
Stress (bruxism)
Many times those who do not know how their teeth became chipped or cracked consistently grind their teeth in their sleep. This condition is known as bruxism, which is often brought on by stress. Bruxism affects about eight percent of adults and is completely treatable. In a previous post, we discussed a few ways patients can prevent bruxism on their own or lessen the damage that it causes. Dr. Tomazin can help determine what is causing your chipped or cracked teeth and correct any damage with dental bonding or porcelain veneers. They will also make other suggestions for preventing bruxism.
Crooked Teeth
Braces are not only a solution for a beautiful smile; they also can correct pain or damage that is caused by an improper bite. All types of malocclusion (crooked teeth) can cause chips and cracks in the teeth, which is why correction is important for your long-term oral health. Straightening your teeth sooner rather than later can avoid more extensive corrective treatment down the road.
Nail biting
Nail biting may seem harmless, especially if you have thin nails, but over time it can cause the teeth to chip. When most people use their teeth as tools or to bite their nails, they tend to use the same particular teeth to bite and tear, causing accelerated damage to that portion of the tooth.
Chewing ice
Chewing ice, hard candy, or any hard, non-food object can chip the teeth. If you have a habit of chewing on any of these hard objects, it is best to avoid them completely and replace the habit by chewing sugar-free gum.
Chipped teeth can cause problems with speech, sores or discomfort in the mouth, and can worsen over time. If you have a chipped tooth or teeth, please schedule an appointment with Dr. Tomazin for an assessment. The information they can provide you will help to correct the problem and restore your beautiful smile. Call (951) 686-3666 or fill out our online contact form today. We look forward to serving you!