The field of dentistry has changed tremendously over the past 50 years. Because the science was once poorly understood, emphasis was put on treating the disease rather than knowing how to prevent it. In other words, if you got a cavity, you went to the dentist to get a filling. Or you would wait until you had pain before you saw a dentist. What ended up happening was that the disease controlled us, and not the other way around.
Today, the emphasis is preventing the disease before it happens. Children in elementary schools are learning early on how to brush and why it’s important. Advancements have been made in dental biology; we now understand more about what causes tooth decay and gum disease, and even how our saliva can help with diagnosis of genetic or health problems. Advancements have also been made in the development of tools to prevent problems. At Wilshire Smile Studio, Dr. Elyassi has made it his mission to utilize state-of-the-art technologies and help patients get informed and get in control of their mouths.
The hygienist’s role goes beyond just a professional cleaning. Our hygienists are trained and licensed to deliver a wide range of services to our patients. These may include periodontal therapy (deep cleanings), laser therapy, periodontal screening and risk assessment, periodontal maintenance, home care guidance and instruction, oral cancer screenings, nutritional counseling, smoking cessation counseling, and screening for signs of eating disorders, acid reflux, and diabetes.
Tongue cleaning is becoming more broadly recognized and recommended by dental professionals as an essential step for proper oral hygiene. As bad breath concerns have become a focus, the tongue has been recognized as a source that harbors a large percentage of the bacteria in the mouth, even after brushing and flossing. Studies indicate that although brushing the tongue is an effective way to remove the bacteria, using a tongue cleaner/scraper with a specially designed shape that conforms to the surface of the tongue and has a ripple edge is the most effective means for cleaning the tongue.
The goal is to find potential problems early so treatment is as simple as possible and less costly. This includes looking at the teeth, gums, bones, and the rest of the mouth. Our Doctors will evaluate all existing work done to make sure any bridges, crowns, fillings, or implants are all intact. No topic is left unanswered, so if it’s snoring problems or bad breath that’s bothering you, our doctors will listen and provide solutions. We have a team of in-house specialists who provide their expertise whenever it’s needed. Wilshire Smile Studio is truly the multi-specialty dental group.
Quick, environmentally friendly, and with 90% less radiation exposure than conventional X-rays, digital radiographs are more accurate and clearer than processed films. Dentists can also easily email the x-rays to each other for better communication.
Now you can see exactly what the dentist sees because, as the saying goes, a picture is truly worth a thousand words. A tiny camera captures images that are projected on a screen in front of you. This is a valuable educational tool that allows you to be fully involved in the decision-making process.
The cells in your mouth are the same type as the cells that make up the surface of your skin. So imagine if you get a cut on your hand and it gets infected. The area becomes red and swollen, hurts when you touch it, and may bleed. The same thing happens in the mouth when plaque is not cleaned properly. Plaque is soft and sticky and is made up of bacteria that cause cavities and gum disease. Calculus is hardened plaque and is an indication of poor hygiene. Your hygienist will give you detailed instructions on how to keep your mouth healthy after your cleaning. Since education is the key, we’re happy to give you tips and reminders any time you come in.
Mammograms screen for breast cancer, Pap smears screen for cervical cancer, and colonoscopies screen for colon cancer and abnormalities. In the same way, Vizilite screens for oral cancer. This system is quick and painless, takes just minutes for your hygienist to complete, and is accurate for detecting abnormal lesions in the mouth that may otherwise go unnoticed by the naked eye. Talk to our dental professionals about his recommended screening intervals for you.
