Preventive Dentistry
 At Smiles LA, we pride ourselves on treating every member of the family. Family dentistry is focused on preventing potential complications, rather than treating them. If you and your family are in need of professional dental services, we can help!
Cleanings, Exams, and Oral Cancer Screenings
The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends a routine check-up up roughly twice a year. A routine appointment with Dr. Michel H. Elyson, DDS, FICOI will typically include a professional cleaning and a detailed examination of your teeth, gums, and other oral tissues. We may also recommend an oral cancer screening for our older patients.
Learn more about routine check-ups.
Dentistry for Kids
Professional dental care is a crucial part of your child's oral health. Be sure to schedule your child's first appointment by the time their first teeth erupt, or before their first birthday. Scheduling regular appointments allows us to monitor the development of their oral health. Developmental problems are easier to treat in the beginning stages.
As your child grows older, we can establish a strong foundation for their oral health, one that will ensure a lifetime of healthy, beautiful teeth.
Read more about the importance of dental care for your children.
Fluoride Treatment
Fluoride is a naturally-occurring mineral found in many of our foods and beverages. It is also a useful tool in fighting tooth decay. Every day, our teeth lose and gain minerals through the processes of demineralization and remineralization. If the process of demineralization exceeds that of remineralization tooth decay will occur.
Professional fluoride treatment allows us to supplement the process of remineralization and prevent potential decay. It can even reverse minor instances of decay. Fluoride treatment is particularly beneficial for patients at a greater risk of tooth decay, such as children, teens, and seniors.
Discover how fluoride treatment can help prevent decay for you and your family.
Sealants
A dental sealant is a thin, plastic coating that prevents cavities and tooth decay. Sealants are usually applied to the occlusal (bite) surface of the molars and premolars. These teeth possess deep grooves and fissures that are much harder to clean, especially for children and teenagers. Sometimes the grooves are so thin that the bristles of a toothbrush are rendered essentially ineffective. A sealant will provide a more even brushing surface and seal off the enamel from harmful bacteria. Preventing tooth decay will ensure your child’s smile remains beautiful for years to come!
Learn more about dental sealants and how they help prevent decay.
Periodontal Care
Your periodontal (gum) tissues are just as important as your teeth. Periodontal disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in the United States. Periodontal disease is the result of an infection in the gum tissues, connective ligaments, and eventually the alveolar bone.
The disease is characterized by gums that are swollen, red, and tend to bleed during brushing and flossing. Luckily, periodontal disease is easy to prevent and treat if it is caught early enough. If we notice signs of advanced periodontal disease, we may recommend a scaling and root planing procedure. The goal is to return your gums to a pink, healthy state.
Learn more about caring for your gums.
Sports Guards
When it comes to protecting your mouth, a mouthguard is an essential piece of athletic gear that should be part of your standard equipment from an early age. While collision and contact sports, such as boxing, are higher-risk sports for the mouth, you can experience a dental injury in non-contact activities too, such as gymnastics and skating.
Learn more about sports guards.
Mouthguards/Night Guards/Bruxism
If you participate in physical activities that put you at risk for dental trauma or injury, we strongly recommend a mouthguard. A mouthguard will protect your teeth and prevent dental emergencies. If you suffer from bruxism (teeth grinding), we may also recommend a night guard. Many patients with bruxism tend to grind their teeth during sleep. A night guard acts as a barrier that prevents enamel wear.
Read more about the importance of mouthguards.
Sleep Apnea/Oral Appliances
If you have obstructive sleep apnea, you may benefit from an oral appliance. An oral appliance will keep your jaw in the proper position during sleep. This opens your airway and improves your breathing during sleep. With an oral appliance, you may find yourself feeling more well-rested, alert and happy, thanks to a full night's sleep.
Learn more about how an oral appliance could improve your sleep.
TMJ
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ), allows us to move our joint forwards, backward, and side-to-side. Any problems that prevent us from using this joint properly are known as TMD or temporomandibular joint disorders. We provide some treatments designed to alleviate any pain or discomfort associated with the TMJ.
Read more about TMJ and the treatments available to help with pain.
Schedule an Appointment
To learn more about our family dentistry services call 323-263-2125, and schedule an appointment now! |
