dentist in palmdale ca Dr. Jason Oh, Dr. Shanne Sastiel, Dr. Michael Tran, Dr. Catherin Vu, Dr. Jacob Hanseen. Implants, Orthodontics, Invisalign, Smile Design, Sleep Apnea, Emergency Dental Services, General, Cosmetic, Restorative Dentistry in Palmdale, CA 93551

Find Your Perfect Dentist in Palmdale, CA

Are you looking for a dentist you can trust? At AV Sierra Dental Center, Dr. Jason Oh, Dr. Shanne Sastiel, Dr. Michael Tran, and Dr. Catherine Vu provide quality dentistry in Palmdale, CA. Our state-of-the-art practice uses the latest techniques to ensure comfortable, painless procedures. We take pride in providing personalized treatment that fits your lifestyle and budget! Call now for an appointment, or visit our website to learn more about what AV Sierra Dental Center offers! A Wide Range of Services Available AV Sierra Dental Center offers a wide array of dental services to meet the needs of its patients. We specialize in services such as: Dental Sealants: These clear coatings can be applied to the back teeth (molars) and help prevent cavities by protecting the grooves and crevices that are hard to clean with just brushing and flossing. It’s quick and painless to get them applied, and they can last for years. So definitely consider asking about dental sealants – they’re an easy and effective way to keep your teeth healthy and strong! Root Canal Services: Root canal services are often a scary term for patients, but it’s essential to understand that it’s a standard procedure to save your tooth from further damage or even extraction. The process involves: The result is a healthier tooth that can continue functioning for many years. Our team of experienced professionals understands the anxiety that can come with this procedure, and we strive to provide a comfortable and stress-free experience for our patients. Trust us to provide the best root canal services and the care you deserve. Additionally, we offer cosmetic procedures such as: Teeth Whitening: A radiant smile can light up a room, but it’s not always easy to achieve. Coffee, tea, red wine, and tobacco can all stain our teeth, leaving them dull and yellowed. Luckily, teeth whitening treatments have come a long way in recent years, offering a safe and effective way to restore our pearly whites. From at-home kits to in-office treatments, we offer a variety of options available to fit different budgets and preferences. So whether you’re preparing for a special occasion or simply want to boost your confidence, teeth whitening may be just the thing to help you shine. Veneers: Many strive for a bright, sparkling smile, but achieving the perfect set of teeth isn’t always easy. That’s where dental veneers come in, an increasingly popular cosmetic treatment that can transform your smile in just a few visits. Dental veneers are thin, custom-made shells placed over the front of the teeth to improve their appearance. They can correct a wide range of dental flaws, including staining, chips, gaps, and misalignment, giving you a flawless smile you can be proud of. And for those who have experienced dental emergencies, we offer emergency dental care services, ensuring that you receive immediate attention and care whenever needed. State-of-the-Art Technology AV Sierra Dental Center utilizes state-of-the-art dental technology to ensure our patients receive the highest quality dental care possible. Our advanced technology includes digital X-rays, intraoral cameras, and laser dentistry, all of which aid in diagnosing and treating dental problems. This technology provides more accurate dental diagnostics, reduces treatment times, and ensures quicker healing. Skilled and Experienced Dental Professionals The dental team at AV Sierra Dental Center comprises skilled and experienced dentists and support staff who are committed to providing quality dental care to their patients. Each dentist brings their unique experience and expertise, and they work together to provide comprehensive dental solutions tailored to each patient’s specific needs. Supportive and Caring Environment We prioritize our patients’ comfort and well-being at AV Sierra Dental Center. We understand that visiting the dentist can be anxiety-inducing for some. We take extra measures to ensure that our patients feel at ease. We provide a supportive and caring environment, catering to each patient’s unique needs. Affordable Dental Solutions AV Sierra Dental Center offers affordable dental solutions, enabling our patients to receive quality dental care without breaking the bank. We provide a range of payment options, including financing options for more complex dental procedures. We also accept many insurance policies, making our services accessible to a broad range of patients. Dentist in Palmdale, CA Finding a reliable, trustworthy dentist is crucial to maintaining good oral health. Whether you’re looking for cosmetic, general, or emergency dental care, AV Sierra Dental Center has you covered. We are committed to providing quality dental care to our patients while ensuring a comfortable and supportive environment. Our skilled and experienced dentists and advanced technology enable us to offer a wide range of dental services, catering to each patient’s unique needs. If you’re in Palmdale, CA, and need dental care, look no further than AV Sierra Dental Center. Book your appointment today and take the first step towards maintaining your oral health.

Girl brushing her teeth with whitening toothpaste

Do Whitening Toothpastes really work?

Do Whitening Toothpastes Really Work? A bright, white smile is something that many people desire. Unfortunately, lifestyle habits such as smoking, drinking coffee or tea, and eating certain foods can cause teeth to become discolored or stained over time. As a result, many people turn to whitening toothpastes as a way to brighten their teeth and restore their smile. But do these products really work? Whitening toothpastes are designed to remove surface stains from teeth and help brighten your smile. They often contain abrasive particles, such as baking soda, that help scrub away surface stains, as well as chemicals like hydrogen peroxide that can help break down stains and remove discoloration. While the effectiveness of these ingredients can vary, many people report that they have had success using whitening toothpastes to improve the appearance of their teeth. One study published in the Journal of Clinical Dentistry found that a whitening toothpaste containing baking soda and hydrogen peroxide was significantly more effective at removing surface stains than a standard toothpaste. Another study published in the Journal of the American Dental Association found that a toothpaste containing baking soda and peroxide was effective at removing extrinsic stains caused by coffee and tobacco. While these studies suggest that whitening toothpastes can be effective, it’s important to keep in mind that the results may not be as dramatic as those achieved with professional teeth whitening treatments. Additionally, whitening toothpastes may not be effective for deeper or more stubborn stains caused by medications or certain medical conditions. It’s also important to note that not all whitening toothpastes are created equal. Some may contain higher levels of abrasive particles that can potentially damage tooth enamel if used excessively. Others may contain ingredients that can irritate sensitive teeth and gums. When choosing a whitening toothpaste, it’s important to look for products that have been tested and approved by dental professionals. Products that carry the American Dental Association (ADA) Seal of Acceptance have undergone rigorous testing to ensure that they are safe and effective for use. It’s also important to follow the instructions for use carefully. Whitening toothpastes should be used as directed, typically for two minutes twice a day, and should not be used excessively. Overuse of abrasive toothpastes can potentially damage tooth enamel and increase sensitivity. While whitening toothpastes can be an effective way to remove surface stains and brighten your smile, they should not be used as a substitute for good oral hygiene habits. Brushing twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, and visiting your dentist regularly for cleanings and checkups are all important steps in maintaining good oral health. If you are looking for more dramatic results, professional teeth whitening treatments may be a better option. Your dentist can recommend the best treatment option based on your individual needs and goals. Whitening toothpastes can be an effective way to remove surface stains and improve the appearance of your teeth. While their effectiveness may vary depending on individual factors, many people report success using these products. However, it’s important to choose a product that has been tested and approved by dental professionals, use it as directed, and not rely on it as a substitute for good oral hygiene habits. If you are looking for more dramatic results, professional teeth whitening treatments may be a better option. If you are in the Palmdale, CA area and looking for professional teeth whitening options, AC Sierra Dental Center can help. Their experienced team of dental professionals can provide customized whitening treatments that are safe and effective. They can also provide guidance on how to maintain your bright new smile and keep your teeth healthy. Remember, maintaining good oral hygiene habits is essential for overall dental health, and regular visits to the dentist for cleanings and checkups can help prevent and address any dental concerns. By taking care of your teeth and utilizing the resources available, you can achieve the bright, healthy smile you desire.

Do You Know How Food Affects Your Teeth?

Oral health is an essential part of our overall health, and it starts with taking care of our teeth. One significant factor that affects the health of our teeth is the food we eat. Understanding how food affects your teeth and what you can do to maintain good oral health is a great first step to having healthy teeth can gums. The basics of tooth anatomy and function Before we dive into how food affects your teeth, let’s go over some basics of tooth anatomy and function. Teeth have different parts that work together to help us chew and speak. The crown is the visible part of the tooth, and the root anchors it to the jawbone. Enamel, the hard outer layer of the tooth, protects the tooth from damage and decay. The dentin and pulp are located inside the tooth and contain nerves and blood vessels. Foods that can harm your teeth Some foods are notorious for causing harm to teeth. These foods are usually high in sugar and acid, which can erode enamel and cause cavities. Candy, soda, and citrus fruits are common culprits. When you consume these foods, the sugar and acid mix with the bacteria in your mouth to create plaque. Plaque is a sticky film that can build up on your teeth, leading to decay and gum disease. To reduce the harm from these foods, it’s best to limit your intake. If you do indulge, drink water afterward to help wash away the sugar and acid. You can also chew sugar-free gum to stimulate saliva production, which helps neutralize the acid. Foods that can help your teeth Eating a balanced and nutrient-rich diet can benefit your oral health. Some foods are even good for your teeth. For example, dairy products, leafy greens, and crunchy fruits and vegetables are excellent choices. Dairy products like cheese and milk are high in calcium and phosphorus, which help strengthen enamel. Leafy greens like kale and spinach are full of vitamins and minerals that promote overall health. Crunchy fruits and vegetables like apples and carrots can help clean teeth by stimulating saliva production and scrubbing away plaque. Tips for maintaining good oral health In addition to being mindful of what you eat, there are other things you can do to maintain good oral health. Here are a few tips: Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste Floss at least once a day to remove food particles and plaque from between your teeth Use mouthwash to help kill bacteria and freshen your breath Drink plenty of water throughout the day to help wash away food particles and neutralize acid Schedule regular dental check-ups to catch any problems early The food you eat can have a significant impact on the health of your teeth. By avoiding sugary and acidic foods and eating a balanced diet rich in nutrients, you can help keep your teeth healthy and strong. In addition to eating well, it’s important to maintain good oral hygiene habits and visit your dentist regularly. At AV Sierra Dental Center in Palmdale CA, we’re committed to helping you achieve optimal oral health. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.

Stressed Out: Can Stress Affect Your Teeth?

You have too much to do at work. You have to juggle a million tasks between your children, your spouse, and errands — not to mention your mother-in-law is in town for the weekend. We all have those days, and those days can add immense stress to your life. That stress affects more than just your emotional health; it physically alters you as well. Your mouth already experiences daily wear and tear that you need to prevent as much as possible. If you are too stressed, this adds another layer of factors fighting against the health of your mouth. It starts before you even realize — you are stressed out thinking about everything you need to do, and then you notice you’ve been clenching your teeth for the past few minutes. Depending on how you handle stress, you may be doing this multiple times per day, which takes a toll on your mouth. Signs of Stress Impacting Your Oral Health 1. Poor At Home Oral Hygiene When we are stressed self-care may become less important. We can start over indulging in comfort foods high in carbs, sugar, and caffeine. A poor diet and ignoring our regular oral hygiene routine can lead to plaque buildup, caries, and even tooth loss. 2. Dry Mouth Saliva keeps teeth moist, helps fight bacteria, and helps removes food particles from your teeth. But when you are trying to manage increased stress, your saliva production can be reduced. This can result in increased plaque buildup and a higher likelihood of dental problems. 3. Clenched Jaws The constant muscle tension in your jaw that can result from chronic stress can cause TMD or temporomandibular disorder. This condition causes pain in your temporomandibular joint (TMJ), your jaws, and around your ears. You may also experience difficulty opening your mouth or chewing food or even hear a clicking noise. If left untreated, bruxism can also destroy dental restorations (fillings, crowns, bridges, etc.) that you’ve had done, creating more pain and costing more money. 4. Teeth Grinding Teeth grinding or bruxism is a common symptom of stress or anxiety. This is often an unconscious action so many people are unaware of their teeth grinding, especially if they are grinding their teeth while they sleep. Grinding teeth results in significant wear and tear on your teeth. This can lead to damage to the enamel, chipped teeth, loose teeth, increased sensitivity, and pain in your temples. 5. Decreased Immune Response Stress often has a detrimental effect on your immune system. A reduced immune response makes it harder to fight off infections, and high levels of cortisol ( a hormone related to stress) lead to protein production in the gums causing inflammation and increasing the likelihood of developing gum diseases like gingivitis and periodontitis. 6. Cold Sore Blisters Cold sores are caused by the herpes simplex virus. Many people can go for months without dealing with a cold sore however increased stress is a common trigger. Cold sores typically appear on the lips or corners of the mouth, in some instances they can also appear on your gums leading to difficulty brushing and flossing. How to Prevent Teeth Grinding and Clenching Since one of the main causes of teeth grinding and clenching is stress, the best way to stop is to reduce your stress. Hold on — put down that glass of chardonnay or moonshine you have after work to unwind (alcohol increases the likelihood of teeth grinding while sleeping). Here are some stress-management techniques that will help reduce your overall stress. Exercise. Not only does this release endorphins to help combat stress, but at the end of the day, you’ll be too tired to have stress-inducing thoughts. Autogenic relaxation. This method involves “commanding” your body to relax. This takes a lot of practice but can be very effective once learned. Learn more about autogenic relaxation here. Visualization. Trying to use all five of your senses, imagine a scenario that is relaxing. For example, if you imagine yourself in a forest, listen to the sway of the branches, feel the warm light creeping between the trees, and note the scent of pine needles. Listen to your favorite music. Classical is always a reliable genre to relax to, but listen to the type of music that helps you unwind. These techniques will only work if you allow them to. When using them, ensure you have an open mind and allow yourself to relax. Everyone is different, and it will take time to find what relaxes you, as well as mastering the technique itself. The benefits of stress-management strategies will not only help your teeth-grinding issue but also provide benefits for many other health issues you may be experiencing. Other Stress Reducing Tips to Consider If you notice throughout the day that you are still clenching, stick the tip of your tongue between your teeth. This will force you to relax your jaw muscles. According to the TMJ Association, take anti-inflammatory medicine (such as ibuprofen) to help with swelling and pain until you can get your teeth grinding and TMJ/TMD under control. Check with your physician to see if you are able to take anti-inflammatory medicines. Place a warm washcloth on your jaw before you go to bed to help relax your muscles. If you try these stress-relieving techniques and are still experiencing pain related to clenching and grinding, your Palmdale, CA dentist can do an examination to determine the best course of action. In most cases, your dentist can create a mouth guard/splint to prevent clenching and grinding. Additional Dental Services May Include: Managing pain with a special diet Stretching exercises Anti-inflammatory medications For more information about stress and your dental health, request an appointment at AV Sierra Dental Center by calling 661.202.3542 today. Reference: Stress management. (n.d.). Retrieved July 12, 2016, from https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/stress-management/in-depth/relaxation-technique/art-20045368 Teeth Grinding (Bruxism): Causes and Treatments. (n.d.). Retrieved July 12, 2016, from https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/teeth-grinding-bruxism TMJ Association, Ltd. (n.d.). Retrieved July 13, 2016, from https://www.tmj.org/site/page?pageId=257

Protect Your Teeth

Sports build camaraderie. They’re fun, adding some excitement to an otherwise mundane week, and they’re always a great source for exercise. But of course, all good things have to have some kind of drawback, right? If you thought this, you’d be correct. And with sports, you have to balance your fun with the risk of injury—and that includes mouth injuries. As the NBA Finals start up, you don’t have to think too far back for a dramatic example. During the playoffs, Boston Celtics point guard Isaiah Thomas was going for the ball when an opposing player hit him in the mouth with his elbow. He was not wearing a mouthguard, so needless to say, Isaiah lost his front tooth and needed hours of oral surgery to repair the damage. We can’t say for certain what would have happened if Isaiah were wearing a mouthguard, in many cases, basic safety precautions can prevent, or lessen the impact, of incidents like this one. The American Dental Association reports that athletes are 60 times more likely to suffer mouth injury when not wearing a mouthguard. That’s a lot of trips to the dentist saved by wearing a mouthguard! So if you want to enjoy sports and make sure you don’t end up with a missing or chipped tooth, here’s some advice. If you play in a contact sport, or if there is any chance for a body part or object to hit your mouth, wear a mouthguard. There are three types of mouthguards: Stock, boil and bite, and custom fitted. Stock Mouthguard The cheapest of the mouthguards, these offer some protection, but not as much as the others. Since they’re “one size fits all,” these mouthguards can often be uncomfortable. Boil and Bite Mouthguard Similar to stock mouthguards, you can buy these at sporting goods stores or places like Walmart. To get a better fit, you boil these mouthguards to soften the plastic. When the temperature of the mouthguard is safe, you place it in your mouth and bite down, allowing the mouthguard to shape to your mouth. A better-formed mouthguard provides more protection and makes for a comfortable fit as well. Custom Mouthguard Your dentist can create a mold of your teeth to create a mouthguard made specifically for your mouth. These mouthguards provide the best protection, and are the most comfortable; many people will forget they are even wearing them. Athletic Mouthguard: Sports Dentistry An athletic mouthguard helps protect your teeth, jaw, and supporting gum tissue from injury while participating in collision and/or contact sports. Participation in sports has steadily increased. Several sources estimate that between 20 to 25 million kids participate in sports annually. Competition among players and teams has intensified in recent years which has contributed to an increase in the number of sport related injuries that impact your face and smile. National Youth sports Foundation for Safety reports show dental injuries are the most common type of injury sustained while participating in their chosen sport. According to the American Dental Association, approximately 10-20% of all sport related injuries are maxillofacial (injury of the face, jaw, and/or teeth). An athlete is 60 times more likely to sustain damage to their teeth when they’re not wearing a protective mouthguard while on the field of play (Source: Nationwide Children’s Hospital). In an effort to help get the word out and increase the awareness about the importance of wearing mouthguards, April has been designated as National Face Protection Month. National Face Protection Awareness Month Every year in April, just prior to the start of many sport seasons begin, five oral health organizations rally together and advocate for team coaches and organizations to strongly recommend that athletes to wear an athletic mouthguard while participating in collision and/or contact sports. These organizations include: Academy for Sports Dentistry American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry American Association of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons American Association of Orthodontics American Dental Association The above five health organizations collaborated to publish a news press release in April 2016 titled Double Down on Mouthguards in recognition of National Face Protection Month. It’s a good, quick read highlighting many of the risks associated with preventable injuries. These organizations track and report sport injuries and have found the sports listed below have the highest incidence of dental trauma: An Athletic Mouthguard Helps Prevent Traumatic Dental Injuries The National Youth Sports Foundation for Safety estimates the cost of reimplanting a tooth, including follow-up dental treatment, is roughly $5000.00, or the equivalent of fabricating 83 custom-fitted athletic mouthguards from your dentist. This doesn’t even account for the pain and embarrassment you or your child may suffer from broken teeth. The following list includes the most commonly reported sport-related traumatic dental injuries. Tooth fracture Avulsion (Tooth knocked out) Tooth displacement (Tooth pushed back or forward) Injury to TMJ (Tempromandibular Joint) Injury to soft tissues Protects dental brackets and wires Protects your teeth, lips, cheeks, jaw, and supporting gum tissue from direct and indirect impact Helps prevent head concussions Keep in mind that all of those injuries can be avoided by choosing to wear an athletic mouthguard. So why don’t people wear a mouthguard to protect their teeth? Common Athletic Mouthguard Objections Many of the most common objections to wearing a mouthguard can be resolved with a custom-fitted mouthguard from your dentist. Uncomfortable Fit is loose and not retentive Difficult to talk Impairs understanding of speech with a mouthguard in place Cumbersome Bulky Inconvenient Smelly Tastes bad Falls out accidentally while on the field of play Afraid to wear accidentally wear a teammate’s mouthguard The bottom line is this: if you don’t wear your mouthguard, then it’s not protecting your teeth. There are multiple reasons why people don’t wear their mouthguards. A lot of store-bought mouthguards make it hard to breathe, talk, and drink, or just aren’t comfortable. In many cases, coaches (and parents) don’t enforce the wearing of mouthguards. If you’re going to play sports, and you want to protect your teeth, you need to wear a mouthguard. While a custom mouthguard may cost more money, their wearability means people are

E-Cigarettes and Your Oral Health: The Smokeless Threat to Your Smile

For many smokers, e-cigarettes seem like the best answer to avoiding the nasty side effects of smoking traditional cigarettes, including the odor and the staining of teeth, skin, and clothing. Though e-cigarettes still contain the highly addictive chemical nicotine, tobacco and other harmful elements are eliminated from the electronic smoking process, or what some refer to as “vaping.” The growing popularity of e-cigarettes and vaping, especially among young people, has caused a rise in concern over the lack of knowledge around the effects it has on health. While clinical studies are currently underway, in 2014 the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) released a statement saying “e-cigarettes have not been fully studied, so consumers currently don’t know the potential risks of e-cigarettes when used as intended, how much nicotine or other potentially harmful chemicals are being inhaled during use, or whether there are any benefits associated with using these products.” Vaping has a direct effect on oral health. Exposure to e-cigarette aerosol can lead to an increase of bacteria in the mouth, which is associated with gum disease, cavities, and tooth decay. The flavoring added to many e-cigarettes can also lead to cavities, not to mention an increased chance of developing chronic lung diseases. It can also cause dry mouth, inflamed gums, and other issues dentist are able to speak to how these new smoking devices threaten your oral health. Nicotine is harmful to your teeth and gums, even in the absence of tobacco and other chemicals traditionally found in cigarettes. Electronic cigarettes still deliver nicotine to their users through the mouth, throat, and lungs. The following are some of the consequences that come with using smokeless cigarettes. Gum Disease: One of the highest risks of e-cigarettes is an increased risk of gum disease coming from three specific conditions. Nicotine leads to Vasoconstriction, which is the limiting of the blood supply to the gums. When the blood supply to your gums is reduced it makes the more susceptible to infection and can lead to gum recession. Gum disease is caused by plaque bacteria. Smoking dries out your mouth, creating an environment that is more conducive for bacteria growth. Your immune system is weakened as a result of smoking, so infectious diseases can develop at a faster rate. It’s important to note that in addition to the problems caused by vasoconstriction one of the telltale signs of gum disease is swelling of the gums caused by irritation. When nicotine reduces blood flow, preventing swelling, this indication of gum disease can be masked, causing your dentist to miss the symptoms and allowing the disease to progress. Gum Recession: Lack of blood flow to the gums keeps the tissue from receiving the nutrients it needs to survive. Over time the skin dies and recedes. Bad Breath: Nicotine restricts your body’s ability to produce saliva, which makes your mouth vulnerable to harmful bacteria and tooth decay. Combined, dry mouth and bacteria lead to halitosis, which can be embarrassing and can affect your self-esteem. Intense Grinding: As a stimulant, nicotine causes muscles to tighten and spasm against the user’s will. It can cause sleep disturbances such as insomnia and grinding of the teeth. Grinding, especially while sleeping, can be damaging to teeth and result in the loss of tooth enamel, as well as chipping, cracking, and breaking of teeth. If you want to maintain your best oral health, avoiding any type of smoking is recommended. If you do choose to smoke, keeping it to the minimum and maintaining your best at-home oral hygiene practices as well as your routine visits to the dentist is important. If you see signs of periodontal disease (including red, swollen, bleeding, or receding gums) or experience bad breath, painful chewing, or loose teeth, make sure to contact your dentist immediately. There are treatments you can receive that will help keep your teeth and gums in the best possible condition. Two such treatments include: Professional dental cleanings Plaque and tartar are removed from above and below the gumline. If you have gingivitis or signs of periodontitis, you will be required to have this level of cleaning twice a year or more. Scaling and root planing Plaque and tartar are scraped away from both above and below the gumline while under local anesthetic (scaling). Rough spots on the tooth root are then smoothed out (planing). Locally applied medications, such as antimicrobials and antibiotics, may be used. If you are experiencing jaw tightness or pain, and you think you might be grinding your teeth, your provider can fit you with a mouthguard that will protect your teeth while you sleep. It can be difficult to share your habits with your dentist. At AV Sierra Dental Center, we treat our patients with respect and compassion. We are here to help you be your healthiest self. If you use e-cigarettes and are concerned about how they may be affecting your oral health, call us today and set up a consultation. We will help you protect your teeth and maintain your natural smile.

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Find Your Perfect Dentist in Palmdale, CA

Do Whitening Toothpastes really work?

Do You Know How Food Affects Your Teeth?

Stressed Out: Can Stress Affect Your Teeth?

Protect Your Teeth

E-Cigarettes and Your Oral Health: The Smokeless Threat to Your Smile

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