Why Schedule An Oral Cancer Screening?

Mouth cancer (cancer type) diagnosis medical concept on tablet screen with stethoscope.Attending your routine checkups and cleanings is a necessary part of your overall preventive dental routine. Not only do they help our team identify points of concern such as incorrect wisdom tooth development or rapid tooth decay, but they help keep your smile healthy and strong. Still, however, it is important to consider that your oral health is affected by much more than just your teeth, and as such, you must take strides to achieve a more thorough dental routine. In today’s blog, your Newport Beach, CA dentist explains why we conduct oral cancer screenings, and how you can schedule one on your next preventive visit.

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Intricacies Of Wisdom Tooth Removal

Removed wisdom tooth on whiteTaking care of your smile is a lifelong process and one that often requires a bit more than most people are willing to put in. In fact, it is going to take much more than just brushing your teeth daily to lay a good foundation for a healthy smile, and sometimes this can lead to extremes such as tooth loss and the need for dental implants. Even still, sometimes the issue does not have to do with decay, but more so with improper tooth development. In today’s blog, your Newport Beach, CA dentist takes a look at why it is important to have wisdom teeth removed, as well as how our team can help.

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Functional Benefits Of Dental Implants

Tooth human implant (done in 3d graphics)Though you may feel as though you are taking every step in the book to keep your smile healthy and happy, it is important to note that dental emergencies and accidents can occur at any given time. Indeed, it is important to come prepared in the event of an accident, but a strong foundation of preventive care coupled with restorative treatment will definitely go a long way. In today’s blog, your Newport Beach, CA dentist discusses the functional benefits of implant dentistry, including how biocompatible posts provide structural integrity.

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Stay Calm During A Dental Emergency

dental emergencyUnfortunately, despite taking fantastic care of your teeth, accidents can still happen. If one does occur, be sure to try and stay calm and not let anxiety take over. Typically, if our office is open and you suffer from a dental emergency, you can come to our office right away, and we will do our best to treat you. If our office is closed, on the other hand, there are still things you can do at home to keep yourself comfortable and damage to your mouth minimal. It should be noted, though, that if your emergency is life-threatening or outside the scope of what we can provide, you should call 911 or go to the closest emergency room immediately. In today’s blog, your Newport Beach, CA, dentist talks about what to do in different dental emergency situations. (more…)

Tips For Overcoming Dental Anxiety

dental anxietyWe get it; going to the dentist or dentist can be anxiety-inducing. After all, having someone poke around your mouth isn’t exactly the ideal way to spend part of your day. While we always strive to make your appointments as comfortable and stress-free as possible, the anxiety you may feel is real. With this in mind, there are ways to help you minimize your fear and stress. In today’s blog, your Newport Beach, CA, dentist provides some tips for overcoming your dental anxiety.  (more…)

Improve Your Brushing And Flossing

brushing and flossingLast week, we discussed the importance of knowing when to replace your toothbrush. Similarly, it is important to reassess your brushing and flossing techniques to ensure your efforts are efficient as well as effective. By practicing good oral hygiene on a daily basis, you are helping minimize the chances of experiencing tooth decay and the subsequent need for serious dental procedures. In today’s blog, your Newport Beach, CA, dentist provides suggestions on how you can improve your brushing and flossing to make sure you maintain a healthy and radiant smile for years to come. (more…)

Oral Surgery Is Dr. Hofkes’ Passion

Oral surgeryThe key to providing the best possible care to our patients is the passion we have for helping them achieve the healthiest possible smiles. We deeply care about the well-being of everyone who enters our office, and we believe this allows us to provide thorough, personalized services to the members of our community. From cosmetic procedures to oral surgery, we strive to offer the best solutions. And this starts with Dr. Shawn Hofke’s continuous efforts to improve upon his craft. In today’s blog, your Newport Beach, CA, dentist discusses his qualified background and the oral surgery procedures we offer to our patients.  (more…)

When You Need A Night Guard

dental night guardPersistent teeth grinding — also known as bruxism — affects millions of people. The exact number is hard to pin down because it often happens when individuals are asleep and many are not aware of their condition until damage has already occurred. Even though many are doing it unconsciously, they feel the effects in their waking hours. Common symptoms include persistent headaches, chipped and cracked teeth, and jaw misalignment. Luckily, there are solutions and remedies. In today’s blog, your Newport Beach, CA, dentist talks about bruxism, its causes, and solutions. (more…)

Porcelain Veneers Can Fix Many Issues

Porcelain VeneersIt is easy to become fixated on the way your smile looks. Even if others don’t notice, we often hone in on every self-perceived irregularity and flaw. As we notice more and more, it can become overwhelming watching the issues stack up. While this can hurt our self-esteem, there are lots of solutions that can help. Porcelain veneers, in particular, can fix several issues at once, making them one of the most efficient cosmetic procedures your dentist or dentist can provide. In today’s blog, your Newport Beach, CA, dentist discusses the ways that they can help. (more…)

When Do You Need A Dental Bridge?

dental bridgeWhen you are missing a tooth, it is essential to fill the space as soon as possible. While there are clear aesthetic benefits, replacing the tooth can also help maintain the health of your jawbone and mouth in general. There are numerous replacement options available and each one is used in specific situations. In today’s blog, your Newport Beach, CA, dentist discusses dental bridges, and how you can know when these will be the best option for you. (more…)