Cosmetic Surgery Chronicle » Cosmetic Dentistry

Correcting Smoker’s Smile

Dr. Alex Farnoosh — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 23:12:40 +0000

By: Alex Farnoosh, D.M.D., M.S.D., Ph.D.

There’s no question that quitting smoking is difficult. If you’ve achieved this goal, you definitely have something to smile about. However, your dark, discolored smoker’s gums may remain, keeping you from breaking into a full grin when you smile.

As a cosmetic dentist specializing in cosmetic gum surgery, I know it’s important to find the procedure – surgical or not – that’s just right for your needs. Personalizing a procedure can help create beautiful and natural looking results that you can enjoy for years to come.

I typically recommend gum bleaching for my patients with discolored gums, then I customize the procedure to their specific needs. Whether you’re worried about small dark spots on you gums or you have discolored gums that appear black, gum bleaching can help you achieve healthy looking gums and help you celebrate the joy you feel from quitting smoking.

Most patients only need one bleaching session, and the simple treatment is easily accommodated into the busiest of schedules.

I prefer this method to others because it doesn’t require multiple treatments, and people can enjoy long-lasting results for a of minimum of 20 years or longer and is permanent based on my research and follow up of the cases I have treated in the past.

As with all cosmetic procedures, the key to beautiful results is finding a qualified specialist who can provide the personalized attention you deserve.

What Is Gum Bleaching?

Dr. Alex Farnoosh — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 22:31:22 +0000

By: Dr. Alex A. Farnoosh, D.M.D., M.S.D., Ph.D.

We all know the importance of pearly white teeth – but if you have discolored gums or black gums, you know your smile has lost its appeal. For years, I’ve heard from patients concerned about this disfiguring problem. My solution: gum bleaching.

Here is more information about this short, yet highly effective, procedure:

Good candidates for this treatment have healthy gums and a solid oral hygiene program. Because this is a cosmetic treatment, I need to correct any other concerns such as gum disease before the gum bleaching can occur.
I tailor each treatment to fit the degree of discoloration. I evaluate your gums carefully first to check their health prior to bleaching your gums.

Gum Grafting Could Give You a New Reason to Smile

Dr. Alex Farnoosh — Thu, 29 Dec 2011 16:04:10 +0000

dentist”>Dr. Alex A. Farnoosh, D.M.D., M.S.D., Ph.D.

As a Beverly Hills periodontist, I’ve noticed there’s one highly beneficial procedure I offer that many patients may not know about it: gum grafting, and root coverage. For people with receding gums, there are often 2 concerns: the appearance of the teeth and the health of the teeth. It’s time to bring gum grafting out of the shadows and into the spotlight, because it deserves much more recognition for its benefits:

Appearance: Receding gums detract from your smile, making your teeth look longer, unhealthy and uncared for. This may affect your self-confidence and make you want to hide your smile.
Health: If it’s not treated, this condition can affect your dental health in some very serious ways. Receding gums is a manifestation of periodontal disease and bone loss, and the exposed tooth surface along the gum line may be more prone to cavities and causes sensitivity.

So there you have it. From enhancing your physical appearance and emotional well-being to restoring the health of your teeth and mouth, gum grafting can be one of the most worthwhile treatment choices available. I invite you to share your questions about it with me.

3 Tips to Ease Anxiety About Visiting a Periodontist

Dr. Alex Farnoosh — Wed, 21 Dec 2011 23:34:02 +0000

By: Dr. Alex A. Farnoosh, D.M.D., M.S.D., Ph.D.

If you have been postponing a visit to the periodontist’s office, you’re not alone. As a periodontist in Los Angeles, I’ve talked with many men and women who want to improve their smile but fear what it might involve. However, visiting a periodontist can actually be a positive, fear-free and even pain-free experience.

Here are some tips to follow:

Talk with your periodontist during your consultation, and be honest about your concerns. By explaining your feelings, you give the periodontist information he or she can use to create an approach that will help you relax and feel comfortable throughout your procedure. Example: Your periodontist may offer you headphones with piped-in music to keep you focused on the music rather than on his or her activities.
Choose a highly experienced specialist who stays up to date with the latest methods. Example: Sedation dentistry can help minimize pain and stress.
Select a periodontist who goes out of his or her way to make your procedure comfortable. Example: I offer a wide range of ways to make your appointment more relaxing, including watching movies in the dental chair.

3 Myths (and the Facts!) About Dental Implants

Dr. Alex Farnoosh — Tue, 15 Nov 2011 22:57:23 +0000

By: Dr. Alex A. Farnoosh, D.M.D., M.S.D., Ph.D.

As a periodontist in Los Angeles, I’ve noticed that many of my patients hesitate when I mention the term “dental implant.” The reason? They don’t understand just how simple and effective this option can be.

Here are 3 common myths – and the real facts – about dental implants:

Myth: A dental implant requires endless rounds of surgery.
Fact: It typically involves only a few simple visits. In fact, in many instances, I can perform immediate placement of the dental implant in a single visit.
Myth: A dental implant procedure is painful.
Fact: By carefully choosing a qualified, experienced periodontist, you can have an almost painless and highly satisfying experience. To keep my patients comfortable throughout the procedure, I use either local or general anesthetic during each visit. Most patients experience only mild swelling and discomfort for a few days after the initial implant placement. By taking oral pain medication and antibiotics, any pain or swelling can be effectively managed. These medications also facilitate healing.
Myth: Dental implants often fail.
Fact: Only a tiny percentage (under 5 percent) do not succeed, and the vast majority work beautifully. By avoiding smoking and following a healthy lifestyle (including a sensible diet and fitness plan) and medical check up to rule out diabetic condition, osteoporosis, etc… You can increase the likelihood of a successful implant. And you can then maintain your restored, beautiful smile by brushing, flossing, and visiting the dentist regularly.

Can Dental Implants Give You a Reason to Smile Again?

Dr. Alex Farnoosh — Thu, 10 Nov 2011 16:59:02 +0000

By: Dr. Alex A. Farnoosh, D.M.D., M.S.D., Ph.D.

The desire for a beautiful smile motivates many men and women in our area to consult with a Beverly Hills periodontist. One of the most common questions that I receive at my practice: “What are my options for replacing a missing tooth?” Whether lost through a sports injury or removed due to an infection, a missing tooth, particularly in the front of your mouth, can make you embarrassed to smile.

One of the best ways to replace a missing tooth for a beautiful, natural-looking smile is with a dental implant. To help you decide whether this option is right for you, I’ve provided the basics below:

A good candidate for a dental implant has healthy gums, without periodontal disease.
There must be sufficient bone in the targeted area so that I can anchor the implants. However, if a patient does not have that requirement, I often can perform a bone graft to create adequate foundation for placement of an implant.
A dental implant can do more than replace a single tooth: I have often performed this procedure to replace dentures or a bridge.
In contrast to dentures or bridges, dental implants feel, appear and function just like your own teeth, making them one of the most desirable procedures for replacing missing teeth or ending the frustration often caused by improperly fitted or “clicking” dentures.

To determine whether this procedure is right for you, I recommend consulting with an experienced periodontist.

Restoration of Lost Bone & Gum by Bone & Gum Grafting

Dr. Alex Farnoosh — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 15:01:38 +0000

By: Dr. Alex A. Farnoosh, D.M.D., M.S.D., Ph.D.

Gum grafting and bone grafting are two important, but often misunderstood, procedures that play an important role in achieving “The Total Smile.” As a Beverly Hills periodontist, I often find that my patients are unfamiliar with how these procedures can contribute to their overall oral health and attractiveness. For certain patients, bone and gum grafting can be essential. Here’s the “skin and bones” of bone and gum grafting:

Gum Grafting

Best for: Gum grafting is often beneficial for individuals who suffer from a receding gum line, which causes the tooth roots to become exposed, making the teeth more sensitive to extreme temperatures and increasing the risk for cavities. The exposed roots can also cause an esthetic problem.

Procedure: During this procedure, either a small amount of the patient’s donor tissue (obtained from the roof of the mouth) or AlloDerm® is used to the site of gum recession. This can be performed on one or several teeth.

Results: There is usually very little recovery time especially if AlloDerm is used and the roof of the mouth is left intact. Most gum grafting procedures are successful. With surgery, patients prevent future gum recession and tooth loss while enjoying a more beautiful smile.

Bone Grafting

Best for: Individuals who have lost a tooth or teeth due to gum disease, extraction, infection, or injury often require a bone graft in order to restore and stabilize the surrounding area before replacement or corrective procedures, such as dental implants or a bridge, can occur.

Procedure: A bone graft can use the patient’s own bone, another human bone fragment, a synthetic bone material, or bovine (cow) bone. The donor site is first prepared and then the new bone is positioned and anchored into place. Sometimes, I may use bone morphogenic protein 2 (BMP 2) or stem cells to help regenerate the patient’s own bone.

Results: After healing has occurred, most patients have sufficient bone density to support a cosmetic procedure such as dental implants. In addition to securing the jaw for future surgery, bone grafting can help to protect existing teeth that are at risk.

Essential Tips for Optimal Oral Health and Gum Care

Dr. Alex Farnoosh — Mon, 24 Oct 2011 22:34:06 +0000

By: Dr. Alex A. Farnoosh, D.M.D., M.S.D., Ph.D.

As a periodontist in Los Angeles, I find that many of my patients are surprised to learn that their gums are not as healthy as they think. Even individuals who brush their teeth routinely and schedule regular dental cleanings may exhibit early signs of gingivitis, such as redness, swelling, or bleeding of the gums. If left untreated, mild forms of gum disease can progress into more advanced stages and cause gum recession, bone loss, and eventual tooth loss or other health issues.

There’s no doubt that frequent brushing and consistent dental examinations are important for oral health; however, additional measures should be taken in order to keep the mouth/gums in optimal condition. Here are some suggestions I often recommend to my patients:

Clean your tongue: bacteria accumulate on the surface of the tongue, which can lead to an increase in plaque tarter build-up and can cause gum problems as well as bad breath and bad taste. Brushing or using a tongue scraper can help remove problematic bacteria.
Floss daily: the importance of daily flossing cannot be overstated. Flossing removes plaque and debris from around the gum line and between the teeth where brushing can’t reach. To ensure gum health, floss at least once a day, every day.
Brush after eating acid or sugary foods: certain foods or beverages that are highly acidic or sugary can contribute to tarter accumulation, tooth decay and gum disease. Some common culprits include candy, sodas, citrus fruits, juices, and bubble gum.

When to See a Specialist

If you notice any of the following symptoms, it may be time to seek the assistance of a qualified gum specialist:

Redness
Inflammation
Bleeding after brushing
Swelling or tenderness
Receding gum

Lighten Your Smile

Dr. Alex Farnoosh — Thu, 04 Aug 2011 23:11:11 +0000

By: Dr. Alex A. Farnoosh, D.M.D., M.S.D., Ph.D.

When you flip through the pages of a magazine, it’s easy to see what makes a beautiful smile: full lips, healthy, pink gums and glistening white teeth. If you’re like many Americans, however, your smile may not fulfill all of these criteria. Many people suffer with discolored or black gums and less-than-white teeth and feel that there’s nothing they can do to correct these problems. They may be aware of professional teeth whitening procedures, but for those with sensitive teeth, these may not be a comfortable option.

As a periodontist, I make it my goal to help people achieve their cosmetic goals. For those who want to lighten their gums and teeth, I offer a unique treatment for discolored or black gum called gum bleaching and laser teeth whitening that works for people with sensitive teeth. Gum bleaching takes less than an hour and diminishes the appearance of dark discolorations, leaving your gums looking pink and healthy. Laser teeth whitening takes about an hour and can whiten your teeth by as many as 10 shades.

Overall, these procedures help your smile look fresh and healthy, getting you one step closer to that perfect smile.

Lasers for Gum Treatment?

Dr. Alex Farnoosh — Thu, 28 Jul 2011 15:01:41 +0000

By: Dr. Alex A. Farnoosh, D.M.D., M.S.D., Ph.D.

There are many factors that can cause gum disease, and the best ways to ward it off is by regularly brushing and flossing your teeth; however, many people don’t realize the benefits of keeping to the recommended routine. As a result, more than 75% of American adults over age 35 suffer with gum disease.

Most of the time, the disease goes untreated and can cause bad breath, swollen and bleeding gums, receding gums, extremely sensitive teeth and, eventually, tooth loss. Fortunately, if you have more advanced gum disease, laser treatments can be one of the best options for improving your gum health.

How do laser gum treatments work?

During the laser treatment, laser light is directed through a small fiber and gently removes diseased, infected tissue around the teeth and reduces bacteria at the same time. By using lasers, the process becomes much more comfortable and I have better control of bleeding. If you have a significant amount of tissue that needs to be removed, you may need gum grafting to produce the right amount of tooth exposure after your surgery.

Sculpting beautiful gums

As a form of cosmetic gum surgery, gum grafting takes a small bit of tissue and transplants it to the area that needs more gum tissue to create a more attractive smile. Although these procedures are for more serious cases of gum disease, they can help save your teeth and improve your appearance.