Choosing to straighten your teeth as an adult is a big decision. Many adults in Aliso Viejo want a healthier, more confident smile but feel unsure about the best orthodontic option for their lifestyle. The two most common choices are Invisalign and traditional braces. Both can deliver excellent results, but they work in very different ways and fit different needs.
At Aliso Smiles, we regularly help adults weigh the pros and cons of Invisalign and braces. Understanding how each option works, what daily life looks like during treatment, and what results you can expect makes it much easier to choose with confidence. This guide breaks down the key differences so you can decide which option fits your goals, schedule, and comfort level.
How Invisalign Works for Adult Orthodontic Treatment
Invisalign uses a series of custom-made clear aligners to gently move teeth into better alignment over time. Each aligner is worn for about one to two weeks before switching to the next set. The aligners are removable, which allows you to eat, brush, and floss without the restrictions that come with fixed braces.
One of the biggest advantages of Invisalign for adults is discretion. The aligners are made from clear, smooth plastic and are barely noticeable during everyday conversations, meetings, and social events. Many adults in professional or public-facing roles appreciate being able to straighten their teeth without drawing attention to their treatment.
Comfort is another major benefit. Invisalign aligners are custom designed to fit your teeth snugly, with no metal brackets or wires to cause irritation. While you may feel mild pressure when switching to a new aligner, most patients find Invisalign far more comfortable than traditional braces.
Invisalign can effectively treat many common orthodontic issues, including crowding, spacing, overbites, underbites, and crossbites. During a consultation at Aliso Smiles, we evaluate your bite and alignment to determine if Invisalign is the right solution for your specific needs.
What Adults Should Know About Traditional Braces
Traditional braces have been used for decades and remain a reliable option for orthodontic treatment. They use metal or ceramic brackets bonded to the teeth, connected by wires that are periodically adjusted to guide tooth movement. Braces are fixed in place, which means they work continuously without relying on patient compliance.
For adults with more complex alignment or bite issues, braces may sometimes be the most effective choice. Severe rotations, significant bite discrepancies, or extensive tooth movement can often be corrected more predictably with braces.
However, braces do come with some lifestyle considerations. Because they are visible, some adults feel self-conscious about wearing braces later in life. Food restrictions are also common, since hard or sticky foods can damage brackets and wires. Oral hygiene requires extra care to prevent plaque buildup around the brackets.
Comfort can be another factor. Braces may cause soreness after adjustments, and the brackets and wires can irritate the inside of the mouth, especially early in treatment. While many adults successfully complete treatment with braces, these factors are important to consider when comparing options.
Invisalign vs. Braces: Comparing Lifestyle, Cost, and Results
Lifestyle often plays the biggest role in an adult’s orthodontic decision. Invisalign aligners can be removed for meals, brushing, flossing, and special occasions, which offers flexibility that braces cannot. This makes Invisalign especially appealing for adults with busy schedules, frequent social events, or professional obligations.
Compliance is key with Invisalign. Aligners must be worn twenty to twenty-two hours per day for the treatment to stay on track. Adults who are disciplined and motivated tend to do very well with Invisalign. Braces, on the other hand, do not require daily decision-making since they stay in place at all times.
Cost is another common question. Invisalign and braces are often comparable in price, though the final cost depends on treatment complexity and length. At Aliso Smiles, we review all fees upfront and discuss payment options to make orthodontic care accessible and manageable.
When it comes to results, both Invisalign and braces can deliver excellent outcomes when properly planned and monitored. Invisalign technology has advanced significantly, allowing for precise tooth movement and predictable results for many adult patients. The best option ultimately depends on your orthodontic needs, personal preferences, and lifestyle habits.
Which Option Is Right for Adults in Aliso Viejo?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer when choosing between Invisalign and braces. Invisalign is often ideal for adults who want a discreet, comfortable option that fits seamlessly into their daily life. Braces may be better suited for those with complex orthodontic challenges or who prefer a fixed solution that does not rely on daily wear habits.
The most important step is a personalized consultation. At Aliso Smiles, we take the time to understand your goals, evaluate your oral health, and explain your treatment options in clear, simple terms. Our team is committed to helping adults in Aliso Viejo achieve straighter teeth and healthier smiles with confidence and clarity.
If you are considering orthodontic treatment, scheduling a consultation is the best way to determine whether Invisalign or braces is the right choice for you.
Frequently Asked Questions About Invisalign Treatment
How long does Invisalign treatment usually take for adults?
Invisalign treatment for adults typically takes between twelve and eighteen months, depending on the complexity of the case. Some minor alignment issues may be resolved in less time, while more involved cases can take longer.
Can Invisalign fix bite problems as well as braces?
Yes, Invisalign can correct many common bite issues, including overbites and underbites. During your consultation, we will determine if Invisalign is appropriate for your specific bite concerns.
At Aliso Smiles, we are proud to provide personalized, modern dental care for patients throughout Aliso Viejo. Our team focuses on comfort, education, and long-term oral health, helping adults feel confident in every step of their smile journey. If you are exploring Invisalign or braces, we invite you to contact us to learn more and schedule an appointment.
Sleep apnea is one of the most common, yet underdiagnosed, health conditions in America. The majority of people who have sleep apnea are completely unaware. However, they are most likely feeling the symptoms. Sleep apnea interrupts your sleep cycles and prevents you from getting quality sleep at night, leading to a variety of health issues.
How is sleep apnea treated? Can sleep apnea be cured? Here’s what you need to know.
What is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is actually a breathing problem. When you lay down to sleep, especially when on your back, your tongue slides back toward your throat and your throat tissues relax, obstructing your airway. Partial obstruction causes snoring and complete obstruction causes you to stop breathing completely. You may stop breathing for seconds to minutes at a time until your body registers a lack of oxygen, causing you to wake up and resume breathing. This can happen multiple times throughout the night, even as much as 30 times in an hour. These interruptions to your natural sleep cycles prevent you from reaching the deep sleep that is necessary for adequate rest.
Signs and Symptoms of Sleep Apnea
You may have sleep apnea if you experience any of the following symptoms:
- Loud snoring
- Feeling tired
- Lacking energy
- Headaches
- Teeth grinding
- Irritability
- Difficulty with focus
- Falling asleep frequently during the day
Treating Sleep Apnea
The most common treatments for sleep apnea are designed to improve breathing.
- Oral appliance. An oral appliance can be used to hold your jaw in a forward position at night, preventing your tongue from sliding back to block your airway. It can be custom made to comfortably fit your mouth.
- CPAP machine. A CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) machine consists of a mask you wear over your mouth and nose that delivers a constant flow of air to keep your airway open while you sleep.
Both of these methods are highly effective at treating the symptoms of sleep apnea. Many people prefer an oral appliance over a CPAP because it is more comfortable, compact, and silent.
Curing Sleep Apnea
There are some treatments that can get the source of your sleep apnea and actually cure it.
- Orthodontic treatment. For some patients, orthodontic treatment to align the bite and widen the upper jaw can prevent the tongue from sliding back to block your airway.
- Jaw surgery. Jaw surgery can also cure sleep apnea by changing the shape and position of the jaw so that your tongue does not slide back toward your throat.
- Throat surgery. Surgery to remove excess tissue from your throat can sometimes cure sleep apnea. There are also procedures that reshape the throat tissues to keep your airway open.
- Nasal surgery. For some people sleep apnea is caused by an inability to breathe through your nose. Surgery to open the nasal passages can cure sleep apnea in some cases.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sleep Apnea
Who can diagnose sleep apnea?
Sleep apnea can be diagnosed and treated by your dentist or a sleep specialist. Going to your dentist about your sleep apnea symptoms is often more affordable and just as effective as seeing a sleep specialist.
What other health problems can result from untreated sleep apnea?
Sleep apnea that goes untreated can result in heart disease, diabetes, and mental health disorders. It also increases your risk of car accidents due to distracted driving and falling asleep at the wheel.
If you suspect your dental bridge doesn’t fit right, it’s smart to contact a dentist. A dental bridge should fit snugly and securely in your mouth without causing pain, irritation, swelling, or discomfort. Read on to learn more about how dental bridges should fit.
Dental Bridges Should Fit Firmly & Snugly Against Your Gum
A dental bridge should never feel wobbly. It should not shift when you eat, chew, or speak. When you first get a dental bridge, it may feel a bit tight in your mouth. If it continues to feel tight or uncomfortable after a couple of weeks, notify your dentist.
The artificial teeth (pontics) used to bridge the gap in your smile should also fit snugly against your gums. There should not be a gap between your gum and the pontic(s). If you notice a gap or discover food or debris accumulating near the base of the bridge, call your dentist.
A poor-fitting dental bridge puts your oral health at risk. For example, a bridge that doesn’t fit properly may damage the neighboring teeth, or the teeth that are supporting the bridge. A poorly fitting bridge also increases your risk of gum disease and gum recession.
Signs Your Dental Bridge Needs to Be Adjusted
If you experience any of the following symptoms of an ill-fitting dental bridge, schedule an appointment with your dentist.
If the gums beneath your dental bridge are sore, tender, or swollen, a loose bridge may be to blame.
- Pain When Eating
If you experience pain when chewing with your dental bridge, notify your dentist. You may need to have your bridge reshaped or realigned.
- You Can Easily Move the Bridge
If you can move your bridge by touching it with your finger or tongue, or if it moves while you are eating, your bridge needs to be readjusted. Your bridge should always be firmly in place.
- Pressure on Adjacent Teeth
If the teeth adjacent to your bridge become sore, or you experience an ongoing sensation of tightness or pressure, schedule an exam with your dentist.
Frequently Asked Questions about Dental Bridges
What should I do if my dental bridge comes loose?
Don’t panic if your dental bridge comes loose. Unless you’re in pain, a loose bridge isn’t an emergency. Schedule a dental appointment. However, if your bridge feels loose and you’re experiencing pain, contact your dentist and explain your symptoms, as pain should always be treated ASAP.
Get Help With a Loose Bridge in Aliso Viejo
If your dental bridge has come loose, your gums are sore, or something about your dental bridge just doesn’t feel right, contact the expert dentists at Aliso Smiles. Aliso Smiles is a Google Five-Star reviewed dental practice in Aliso Viejo. To book an appointment, call 949-916-7800 or message us.
Disorders of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) affect more than 10 million people in the U.S. Although signs and symptoms of TMJ may vary from person to person, most people will experience one of the primary symptoms including pain at the jaw joint, clicking or popping when opening the mouth or chewing, stiffness in the jaw, or pain that spreads into the face or neck. If you think you have TMJ, the best thing to do is to schedule an appointment with a dentist who specializes in the nonsurgical treatment of TMJ.
What Causes TMJ?
Women are twice as likely to be affected by TMJ than men. TMJ symptoms may flare up in conjunction with other medical conditions such as back pain, IBS, headaches, and fibromyalgia. Most people are first diagnosed with TMJ disorders between the ages of 20-40.
Unfortunately, although there are several primary causes of TMJ disorders, in most cases the exact cause isn’t known. Known causes of TMJ include:
- Congenital joint disorder
- Arthritis
- Injury (trauma) to the joint
However, specific activities and habits may all contribute to the degeneration of the disc or the joint, including bruxism (teeth grinding), misalignment of the teeth or bite, muscle spasms, rheumatic illnesses, and other less common conditions such as connective tissue disease.
The role that stress plays in TMJ cannot be underscored. Although stressors won’t directly cause pain in the jaw joint, they do increase the likelihood of inflammation, or teeth grinding or clenching, all of which can trigger TMJ symptoms.
How Can I Treat TMJ?
If you suddenly develop pain in the jaw joint, you’ll be glad to know that temporary flare-ups are common. The symptoms may disappear on their own within days or weeks. At home, you may try icing the jaw, taking an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory such as Advil, or switching to soft foods temporarily.
If you’re currently under more stress than normal, you may also wish to engage in relaxation exercises, such as mindful meditation, guided breathing, yoga, tai chi, or other intentional stretching exercises.
If the pain does not go away with at-home care, you’ll need to schedule a dental appointment with a dentist experienced in treating TMJ.
Nonsurgical treatments for TMJ may include custom night guards or bite guards (oral appliances) which prevent teeth grinding and clenching, BOTOX injections to relax the muscles, specialized jaw exercises, and prescription strength anti-inflammatories.
TMJ disorders due to traumatic injury or congenital defect may require surgery to treat.
Frequently Asked Questions about TMJ
Is TMJ treatment covered by Insurance?
It’s best to check with your dental and medical coverage to learn if your specific plans cover treatment for TMJ disorders. If your insurance does not cover TMJ treatment, you may opt to finance treatment with CareCredit, a third-party financing company offering no interest and low-interest monthly payments.
Can TMJ lead to complications?
Left untreated, TMJ can lead to chronic pain and difficulty chewing. If your TMJ pain is caused by teeth grinding, you may develop oral health conditions including cracked teeth, infections, and gum disease.
Schedule an Appointment for Jaw Joint Pain in Aliso Viejo
If you’ve developed pain, clicking, popping, or a locking sensation in the jaw, schedule an appointment at Aliso Smiles by calling 949-916-7800. If you prefer, you may message us to request an appointment and we will follow up with you shortly.
After a root canal, it can take several hours for local anesthesia to wear off. If you took an oral sedative before your procedure, detoxing from the medication can take up to 8 hours. Nitrous oxide, commonly called laughing gas, wears off almost as soon as the gas is turned off. No matter which type of anesthesia or sedation you have for your root canal treatment, detoxing will take 24 hours or less.
Why Root Canals Are Needed
Root canals can be thought of as a last-ditch effort to save a severely damaged tooth. Root canals are always a better option for your oral health than a tooth extraction, or losing the tooth on its own. That’s because root canals save the tooth root.
The roots of the teeth are unsung heroes when it comes to your oral health and facial appearance. In addition to anchoring the teeth to the jaw, the roots of the teeth also keep your jawbone strong and healthy. When you lose a tooth or have a tooth extracted, the root is removed as well, leading to jawbone deterioration. As the jawbone recedes, the facial appearance will change, leading to thin lips, wrinkles, and a prematurely aged, sunken appearance.
By contrast, when a severely decayed, infected, or cracked tooth receives a root canal, the root remains intact. This not only preserves the jawbone, but it also reduces the risk of gum disease, prevents adjacent teeth from drifting into the gap, reduces the risk of additional tooth loss, and ensures you have a full smile.
Root Canal Therapy in 2024
Today, root canals are faster, more effective, and more comfortable than ever thanks to advanced dental technologies, including high-resolution digital imaging, extraordinary microscopes, and advanced techniques. Most root canals do not take much longer than getting a dental filling.
The root canal process involves 5 steps.
- A small hole is created allowing the dentist or endodontist to access the interior of the tooth
- The pulp and all decay, debris, and bacteria are removed
- The canals of the root are cleaned, rinsed, and reshaped
- The tooth is filled with a biocompatible material
- The tooth is protected with a dental crown
The area of the mouth being treated will be completely numb for your comfort. Once your treatment is complete, any acute pain is typically resolved. You may continue to experience tenderness or swelling for a few days. Within a week, nearly all patients are completely recovered and pain-free.
Frequently Asked Questions about Root Canals
Can I drive after a root canal?
Driving after a root canal depends on the type of sedation or anesthesia you have during your treatment. If you have local anesthetic or laughing gas, you may drive yourself home after your procedure. If you took an oral sedative you may not drive home. If you had IV sedation you may not drive yourself home.
How long will a root canal take?
Most root canals are complete within 90 minutes. Some may take as few as 45 minutes to complete.
Schedule an Appointment for Tooth Pain in Aliso Viejo
At Aliso Smiles, our experienced team includes dentists, endodontists, and periodontists. Our state-of-the-art office is equipped with advanced diagnostic and treatment technologies to ensure patient comfort and outstanding outcomes from procedures. If you’re living with pain in a tooth, contact us today at 949-916-7800 or send us a message.
Restoring a damaged or vulnerable tooth with a dental crown is an incredibly common procedure in the U.S. Although the process for getting a dental crown can take a couple of weeks, and require multiple appointments, advancements in dental technology, such as Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics® (CEREC), allow dental crowns to be made and placed in a single day. Read on to learn more about same-day CEREC dental crowns.
What are CEREC Dental Crowns?
CEREC technology represents a huge leap forward in innovation in dental technology. Using 3D digital impressions of the tooth to be treated, dentists then use CAD/CAM (Computer Assisted Design/ Computer Assisted Milling) software to design the crown to match your other teeth in size, shape, and color. A ceramic block is then fed through the milling machine which creates the crown.
Benefits of Same-Day Dental Crowns
Although traditional crowns are still available and widely used, CERE same-day dental crowns offer unique benefits to patients.
- No need for a temporary crown while waiting for your permanent crown to arrive
- Saves time, since only one appointment is necessary
- CEREC crowns are made of high-quality ceramic
- May allow you to preserve more of your natural tooth
- Studies suggest CEREC crowns fit the teeth more precisely
- More natural-looking crown
- Cost-effective (no need for temporary crown, or multiple appointments)
- Durable (may last 10 years or longer before needing to be replaced)
How to Choose Between Traditional Crown and CEREC Crown
Many times, deciding between a traditional dental crown or a CEREC same-day crown comes down to personal choice. In some cases, your dentist may recommend a traditional crown. A common reason a dentist would recommend a traditional crown is if a molar is significantly damaged. Metal alloy crowns are a bit stronger and may be indicated for the teeth responsible for chewing. Likewise, if you grind your teeth, your dentist may recommend that you opt for a traditional dental crown. When in doubt about which type of crown is right for you, ask your dentist for their recommendation.
Caring for Dental Crowns
The type of crown you choose is not nearly as important as how you care for your dental crown. Irrespective of the type of crown you choose, you must continue to brush twice daily and floss daily. Regular dental exams and cleanings are a must. If you have a history of clenching or grinding your teeth you should obtain a custom night guard to protect the teeth.
Dental crowns are incredibly durable, but habits such as chewing on hard objects (candies, ice, or pens), biting your fingernails, or using your teeth as tools to open bottles or other items can damage your crown.
Frequently Asked Questions about Dental Crowns
Does insurance pay for CEREC same-day crowns?
Check with your insurance plan for your coverage information. Most insurance companies offer the same coverage for same day crowns as they offer for traditional crowns. However, it is best to contact your company so that you understand your financial obligation.
Can I use third-party financing to pay for a same-day crown?
Yes. At Aliso Smiles, we gladly accept CareCredit for all dental treatments.
Schedule a Dental Exam and Cleaning in Aliso Viejo
If it's been six months or longer since your last dental exam and cleaning, it’s time to schedule an appointment. At Aliso Smiles, Dr. Patel utilizes all advanced technologies proven to enhance comfort, improve precision, and offer patients with outstanding outcomes. To schedule your appointment call 949-916-7800 or send us a message.
If you’re missing one or more teeth in a row, a dental bridge may be an excellent way to restore your smile to excellent health and appearance. Depending on the number of teeth you need to replace, you may even be able to choose the type of dental bridge you’d like to get. No matter what type of dental bridge you receive, you can expect it to take roughly two weeks for your dental bridge to settle. Here’s everything to know about dental bridges.
Dental Bridges for Missing Teeth
Research suggests that more than 120 million people in the U.S. are missing at least one tooth. Although you may think that tooth loss only happens to older adults, the reality is that 69% of people aged 35-44 are missing at least one tooth. With tooth loss so widespread in America, it’s no wonder dental bridges are so common.
There are four types of dental bridges. Traditional dental bridges are the most common. Traditional dental bridges bridge gaps in your smile by affixing crowns on either side of the gap. These crowns support the artificial tooth (pontic) that bridges the gap in your smile.
A cantilever bridge is similar to a traditional bridge. However, instead of the bridge being supported by crowns on both sides of the gap, the bridge is supported by a single crown on one end of the gap.
A Maryland bridge relies on a metal structure cemented to the back of the teeth to support the artificial tooth or teeth that fill the gap in the smile.
Implant-supported bridges are growing in popularity. The reason? Dental implants that support the artificial teeth are incredibly durable and preserve the jaw bone and your facial appearance. Implant-supported bridges are often the strongest and sturdiest dental bridge restoration.
Dental Bridge Settling: What to Know
The process for getting a dental bridge typically takes several dental appointments. During your first appointment, your dentist will be preparing the teeth on either side of the gap to support the bridge. This typically involves removing a bit of enamel to prep the adjacent teeth. Your dentist will then take digital images and digital impressions. You may leave the appointment with temporary bridges and crowns.
During your next appointment, one of several procedures may be performed. If you’re getting an implant-supported bridge, you will have your dental implants placed. If you are getting a Maryland bridge the metal and bridge will be placed. If you’re getting a traditional bridge or cantilever bridge, your permanent crowns and the bridge will be placed.
A dental bridge can feel awkward initially. If you’ve been without a tooth or teeth for a while, the bridge is likely to feel unusual and may be uncomfortable or sensitive. Fortunately, the bridge should fully settle within two weeks, at which time it should no longer feel strange or uncomfortable.
Frequently Asked Questions about Dental Bridges
What are the alternatives to a dental bridge?
The premium alternative to a dental bridge is a dental implant. Dental implants are the only dental restoration that replicates the function of a natural tooth, and a tooth root. Other alternatives to dental bridges include partial dentures
How long will my dental bridge last?
Dental bridges are of higher quality than ever before. A dental bridge used to last just 5-7 years. Today, patients who practice excellent oral hygiene, and see their dentist regularly can expect their bridge to last 10 years or longer.
Schedule an Appointment to Replace Missing Teeth in Aliso Viejo
If you’re tired of living with missing teeth, schedule an appointment at Aliso Smiles in Aliso Viejo today by calling 949-916-7800 or sending us a message. Aliso Smiles is a Google 5-star reviewed dental practice providing comprehensive preventive, restorative, and cosmetic dentistry for all ages.
People of all ages should see the dentist every six months for teeth cleaning and an oral exam. Of course, should any problems, such as pain, discoloration, or bleeding gums arise between your biannual cleaning and exam, you should schedule a dental appointment. Regular dental cleanings are essential for preventing oral health conditions, maintaining oral health, and for the earliest detection of problems.
Professional Teeth Cleanings Help Prevent Decay and Infection
Regular dental cleanings are preventive treatments. During your cleaning, plaque that leads to tooth decay and gum disease is removed from the teeth, thereby reducing your risk of needing restorative dental treatments such as fillings, dental crowns, or root canal therapy. Indeed, good oral hygiene coupled with regular cleanings from the dentist can prevent a host of oral health conditions that can be costly to treat.
Regular Dental Cleanings Are Essential for Maintaining Good Oral Health
In addition to preventing problems in the mouth, regular dental cleanings help you maintain good oral health. Maintaining excellent oral health will require work.
Consider that by the age of 30, nearly half of adults in the U.S. have some type of gum disease. Moreover, epidemiological studies show that more than 175 million Americans are missing at least one tooth. Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss. These sobering statistics demonstrate that maintaining good oral health will take some effort.
Even those who have excellent oral hygiene skills will experience buildup of plaque (bacteria) between the teeth and at the gum line, that cannot be removed with at-home brushing and flossing. Having your teeth cleaned at the dentist twice yearly will remove this plaque responsible for gum disease and tooth decay.
Twice Yearly Dental Cleanings Offer Earliest Detection of Problems
Your dental cleaning will always be accompanied by a comprehensive oral exam. The oral exam is equally as important as the cleaning. During an exam, your dentist will be looking for changes in tissue, lesions, problems with the bite, jaw structure, and signs of decay, infection, or inflammation. Indeed, regular dental cleanings afford you the earliest possible detection of any problems with your teeth or mouth.
It is Far Better to Go to the Dentist Late Than Never
For patients who haven’t received consistent oral healthcare, the thought of going to the dentist can be intimidating. However, you should never be afraid to seek oral health care, even if you’ve neglected regular care in the past. Poor oral health is linked with multiple, serious health conditions including heart disease and stroke. It is always better to go to the dentist late than to never go to the dentist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you treat uninsured patients?
Absolutely. We offer discounts for patients who do not have dental insurance. We also accept CareCredit financing, so you can pay for your dental care over time.
How long does a dental cleaning take?
Dental cleanings rarely take longer than an hour, often taking just 30 minutes. If you haven’t been in for a cleaning in six months or longer, the cleaning can take a bit longer.
Judgement-Free Dental Care in Aliso Viejo
At Aliso Smiles, you will never feel judged for inconsistent dental care in the past. We are here to help you take charge of your oral health now, in a welcoming and friendly environment. To schedule teeth cleaning in Aliso Viejo, call 949-916-7800 or send us a message.
Activated charcoal has one key beneficial feature–its binding properties. As such, it has been used to treat acute toxic poisoning for centuries. In cases of poisoning or overdosing on drugs, charcoal is given to prevent the stomach from absorbing poison. However, oral healthcare products containing activated charcoal have flooded the market in recent decades. Charcoal toothpaste for example claims to whiten teeth. But what does science say about these claims? Read on to learn if activated charcoal actually whitens teeth.
Activated Charcoal May Lighten Surface Stains
Multiple studies have concluded that although toothpaste containing activated charcoal may remove some surface stains on the teeth, there is no evidence that it is more effective than any other toothpaste. In other words, activated charcoal does not whiten teeth. The reason? To whiten the teeth, stains beneath the surface (enamel) need to be treated.
Are there Risks of Using Activated Charcoal Toothpaste?
Unfortunately, activated charcoal toothpaste may cause more damage than the minor stain-lightening benefits. Activated charcoal is a fine, but abrasive powder. The abrasive characteristic of activated charcoal may wear away at tooth enamel. This enamel erosion can cause your teeth to appear more yellow than white.
It’s also important to note that many activated charcoal kinds of toothpaste do not contain fluoride. Fluoride is essential for preventing tooth decay that leads to cavities. Those with dental restorations including veneers, dental crowns, or composite fillings may also find that daily use of toothpaste containing activated charcoal, stains the dental restorations. Finally, some people who use activated charcoal toothpaste daily may develop tooth sensitivity.
Professional Teeth Whitening Provides the Best Results
Of all of the various teeth whitening products available, the best results will come from professional in-office teeth whitening at your dentist’s practice. Using dental-grade whitening products, which contain a higher concentration of whitening agents, and a special light to maximize whitening, in-office teeth whitening provides excellent results in roughly one hour.
Take-home whitening kits available from your dentist will also give better results than any products you’ll find in stores or online. These professional-grade whitening kits also contain higher concentrations of whitening agents, but it takes time for full results to appear.
Alternatives to Teeth Whitening
Teeth whitening is one of the most affordable cosmetic dental treatments, making it a cost-effective way to upgrade your smile. However, results are temporary and you’ll need to repeat the treatment to maintain your results. Teeth that have been treated with dental restorations, also won’t respond to teeth whitening.
Other options for getting a gleaming smile include porcelain veneers. Veneers are responsible for the dazzling smiles found on celebrities. Veneers allow you to makeover your smile with teeth that are perfectly aligned, equal in length, and brilliantly white.
If you have a single or a couple of discolored teeth, cosmetic bonding or dental crowns can also restore your teeth to a beautiful whiter shade.
Schedule a Cosmetic Dental Consultation in Aliso Viejo
At Aliso Smiles in Aliso Viejo, Dr. Patel provides comprehensive cosmetic dental treatments and services. To schedule an appointment, call 949-916-7800 or send us a message.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does teeth whitening hurt?
The process of having your teeth whitened doesn’t hurt as it is a non-invasive procedure. Gum and tooth sensitivity may occur after the treatment. If you have sensitive teeth, talk with your dentist before scheduling teeth whitening.
Can I finance teeth whitening?
Yes, with CareCredit financing you can pay for your teeth whitening over time with low-interest monthly payments.
The majority of people who suffer from disorders of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) will find that the condition can be managed nonsurgically by a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or a Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry (DMD), also known as a dentist. Indeed, unless the TMJ disorder is due to a dislocation or break in the joint, TMJ treatment will be provided by a dentist. In cases where a dislocation or deformity of the joint requires surgery, an oral surgeon will provide the surgery, working in collaboration with your dentist.
Diagnosing the Cause of TMJ Disorders
To properly treat TMJ disorders, dentists first look to diagnose the cause of the painful condition. Common causes of TMJ disorders include:
- Bruxism (teeth grinding and jaw clenching)
- Arthritis (osteoarthritis, inflammatory arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis)
- Tooth or bite misalignment
- Injury to the jaw
Incidentally, stress is also a known risk factor for developing TMJ. Stress itself doesn’t cause TMJ but may prompt people who normally don’t grind their teeth to begin doing so.
Treatments Dentists May Prescribe for TMJ Disorders
The cause of TMJ will dictate the treatment prescribed by your dentist. For example, if you’re grinding your teeth at night, your dentist may recommend a custom night guard (known as a stabilization splint) or Botox injections. Night guards prevent you from biting and clenching, thus reducing pressure on the jaw joint. Botox injections paralyze the muscles that are required to clench at night, which also relieves pressure.
If the pain in the joint is due to arthritis, your dentist may prescribe anti-inflammatory medication to reduce swelling in the joint. In some cases, steroid injections may also be indicated for severe inflammation in the jaw joint.
If pain in the jaw joint is due to a misalignment of the teeth or a bite issue (malocclusion), orthodontic treatment such as Invisalign or braces may be necessary to treat the symptoms of TMJ.
At-Home Treatments to Alleviate TMJ Symptoms
New onset of TMJ symptoms, including pain in the jaw, clicking or popping sounds, headaches, or tooth pain can often be mitigated at home. Temporary lifestyle changes such as switching to softer foods, icing the outside of the jaw joint, and minimizing extreme jaw movement may calm irritation and inflammation.
Those who develop TMJ symptoms during particularly demanding or stressful times may find that meditative practices such as deep breathing, yoga, tai chi, or daily walks in nature may help.
Get Non-Surgical Help for TMJ Disorders
At Aliso Smiles, Dr. Patel is highly experienced and successful in helping patients get relief from pain due to TMJ disorders. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Patel at Aliso Smiles, call 949-916-7800 or message us.
Frequently Asked Questions
Once I have TMJ will I always have it?
Not necessarily. Some people may suffer from chronic flare-ups of TMJ symptoms. Others may experience symptoms for a period and never experience them again. Fortunately, nearly all people will experience relief from TMJ with non-surgical treatment.
Is TMJ hereditary?
TMJ disorders aren’t inherited, per se. However, there are very clearly genetic factors involved in some of the underlying conditions that lead to TMJ symptoms. For example, certain types of arthritis tend to run in families. Likewise, malocclusions such as an overbite or underbite are often inherited. So, although pain in the joint isn’t an inherited trait, the causes of the pain certainly can be.