Ada Gruita, DDS

The right toothbrush and toothpaste can be valuable in maintaining your dental health. But with a number of options on the market, finding the ideal products can be challenging. Here is a guide that can help you select the best toothbrush and toothpaste for your specific needs.

Bristle Softness

Many dental health experts recommend a toothbrush that has soft bristles. Soft bristles are effective at removing plaque and food particles while protecting your gums from damage. Medium or hard bristles can be abrasive, potentially leading to gum recession or enamel erosion over time.

Manual vs. Electric

Both manual and electric toothbrushes are effective when used correctly, but electric toothbrushes can provide added benefits for many patients. For people with limited mobility, arthritis, or difficulty brushing thoroughly, electric toothbrushes can make brushing easier and more effective. They often have timers to ensure you’re brushing for the recommended two minutes and can help remove plaque more efficiently.

Brush Head Size and Shape

A toothbrush with a smaller head allows for easier brush movement, particularly when cleaning more difficult-to-reach spaces. Toothbrushes with rounded or compact heads can make it easier to reach tight spaces, which helps with thorough cleaning.

ADA Seal of Approval

High-quality toothbrushes often feature the American Dental Association (ADA) seal. This seal indicates that the toothbrush meets specific quality standards and is safe and effective.

Choosing the Right Toothpaste

The ideal toothpaste depends on your individual dental concerns, such as sensitivity, whitening, or cavity prevention.

Fluoride Content

Fluoride is essential for strengthening enamel and preventing cavities. Almost all toothpastes approved by the ADA contain fluoride, which is effective for protecting your teeth from decay.

Sensitivity Relief

If you have sensitive teeth, look for toothpaste formulated specifically for teeth that are more sensitive than normal. These toothpastes often contain ingredients like potassium nitrate or stannous fluoride, which help reduce sensitivity over time.

Whitening Options

Whitening toothpastes contain mild abrasives or bleaching agents that help remove surface stains and brighten your smile. However, it’s important to use them carefully to prevent potential enamel erosion. A cosmetic dentist in Mission Viejo can provide additional whitening options if you’re looking for more noticeable results.

Special Formulations

Some toothpastes are designed to address specific issues such as gingivitis, tartar buildup, or breath freshness. If you have a particular concern, such as gum health or plaque control, look for toothpaste formulated for that purpose.

Some toothpastes contain harsh ingredients, like sodium lauryl sulfate, which can present irritation in people with sensitive gums or those prone to mouth sores. You can search for toothpastes without unnecessary chemicals if you’re sensitive to certain ingredients.

Choosing the right toothbrush and toothpaste is essential for maintaining oral health. By selecting a toothbrush with soft bristles, a comfortable head size, and ADA approval, and a toothpaste tailored to your specific needs, you’ll be on track to a healthy smile.

Dental implants provide a restoration for missing teeth that closely match the natural look and feel of your real ones.  If you’re considering dental implants, it is important to evaluate how long they can last. Fortunately, with proper care, dental implants can provide a long-term solution, often lasting decades or even a lifetime.

The Longevity of Dental Implants

Dental implants consist of three main components: the implant post, the abutment, and the crown. The implant post, which in most cases are composed of titanium material, is surgically placed into the jawbone and serves as the foundation for the replacement tooth. Once it fuses with the bone through a process called osseointegration, it becomes a permanent part of your mouth. The abutment connects the implant post to the crown, which is the visible part of the implant.

The longevity of dental implants largely depends on several factors, including oral hygiene, lifestyle habits, and overall health. On average, the implant post itself can last a lifetime, while the crown may need replacement on an average of 10-15  years due to normal wear and tear. With excellent care, both the post and the crown can last longer, providing a durable and reliable solution for missing teeth.

Factors that can Contribute to the Lifespan of Dental Implants

1. Oral Hygiene
   Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential for the longevity of dental implants. Brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and visiting your dentist regularly for check-ups are crucial for preventing gum disease, which can compromise the stability of the implant. Peri-implantitis, an infection similar to gum disease, can occur around the implant if proper care isn’t taken, potentially leading to implant failure.
2. Lifestyle Habits
   Certain lifestyle habits can also affect how long dental implants last. Smoking, for example, can hinder the healing process and increase the potential for complications, such as infection and bone loss. Limiting alcohol consumption and avoiding excessive sugary foods can also contribute to the long-term success of your dental implants.
3. Overall Health
   General health conditions, such as diabetes or osteoporosis, can impact the success of dental implants. Properly managing these conditions and working closely with both your physician and dentist can help minimize the risk of implant-related complications.

Extending the Lifespan of Your Implants

To ensure the longevity of your dental implants, it’s important to maintain a healthy oral care routine and schedule regular dental visits. At Pro Health Dental, we recommend routine check-ups every six months to assess the condition of your implants and ensure that everything is functioning as expected.

With proper care, dental implants can be longer lasting than ever, often spanning an entire lifetime. Maintaining good oral hygiene, avoiding harmful habits, and managing overall health conditions are key to ensuring their longevity. If you have questions about dental implants or looking to schedule an appointment, contact Pro Health Dentsal today!

During sickness, the last thing you want to deal with is a toothache. However, it’s not uncommon for people to experience tooth pain while battling a cold, the flu, or other illnesses. Understanding why this occurs can help you manage the discomfort and seek appropriate care.

Sinus Pressure and Tooth Pain

One of the most common reasons for tooth pain during illness is the increased sinus pressure. Your sinuses are located near your upper teeth, particularly the molars. When there is a sinus infection or even just a severe cold, they can become inflamed and filled with mucus, which adds additional pressure in the surrounding areas. This pressure can radiate to your upper teeth, causing pain that mimics a toothache. The discomfort is usually felt in the upper rear teeth, but it can sometimes spread to other areas of your mouth.

If you suspect that sinus pressure is the cause of your tooth pain, it’s important to address the underlying sinus issue. Decongestants, steam inhalation, and hydration can help relieve sinus pressure, and in turn, reduce the tooth pain associated with it.

Dry Mouth and Tooth Sensitivity

An additional factor that can contribute to tooth pain when you’re sick is dry mouth. Illness often leads to dehydration, especially if you’re running a fever, taking certain medications, or simply not drinking enough fluids. A dry mouth does not have enough saliva to keep your mouth’s pH balanced. Without adequate saliva, bacteria can thrive, leading to an increased risk of cavities, gum disease, and tooth sensitivity.

Combatting dry mouth involves staying hydrated, using a humidifier, or chewing sugar-free gum to stimulate saliva production. If dry mouth persists, it might be worth discussing it with your dentist at Pro Health Dental in Mission Viejo, especially if you are already susceptible to dental issues.

Inflammation and Immune Response

Your body’s immune response to illness can also play a significant role in tooth pain. When you’re sick, your immune system is working actively, which can cause inflammation throughout your body, including your gums. Inflamed gums can become tender and more sensitive to normal activities like chewing or brushing, which might make it feel like your teeth are in pain.

Regular dental care, such as gentle brushing and flossing, is crucial during illness to minimize the impact of inflammation. If you’re experiencing significant discomfort, a visit to your cosmetic dentist in Mission Viejo might be necessary to rule out any other underlying dental issues.

Tooth pain during illness can be distressing, but understanding the potential causes can help you manage the discomfort. Sinus pressure, dry mouth, and inflammation are common culprits. In addition, staying hydrated, maintaining good oral hygiene, and addressing sinus issues can alleviate some of this pain.

Dental veneers are an excellent solution for achieving a bright, beautiful smile. These thin shells, typically made of porcelain or composite resin, are bonded to the front of your teeth to improve their appearance. While veneers are durable, they require proper care to ensure they last as long as possible. Here are some tips from Pro Health Dental to help you maintain your veneers and keep your smile looking its best.

1. Maintain Good Oral Hygiene

Just like your natural teeth, veneers need to be kept clean to prevent plaque buildup and gum disease. Brush your teeth at least twice a day with a non-abrasive toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush. Floss daily to remove food particles and plaque from between your teeth. Using an antiseptic mouthwash can also help keep your mouth fresh and free of bacteria.

2. Visit Your Dentist Regularly

Regular dental check-ups are crucial for maintaining your veneers. Your dentist can detect any potential issues early and provide professional cleaning to keep your teeth and gums healthy. Aim to visit your dentist at least twice a year, or more frequently if recommended.

3. Avoid Excessive Force

Veneers are strong but not indestructible. Avoid using your teeth as tools to open packages or bottles, and be cautious when eating hard foods like nuts, ice, or hard candies. These can crack or chip your veneers.

4. Watch What You Eat and Drink

Certain foods and beverages can stain your veneers, especially if they are made from composite resin. Limit your intake of coffee, tea, red wine, and foods with artificial coloring. If you do consume these, rinse your mouth with water afterward to minimize staining. Avoid acidic foods and drinks, as they can erode the bonding material over time.

5. Protect Your Veneers During Physical Activities

If you participate in sports or other physical activities, wear a mouthguard to protect your teeth and veneers from potential trauma. Custom-fitted mouthguards provide the best protection and comfort.

6. Address Teeth Grinding and Clenching

Bruxism, or teeth grinding and clenching, can severely damage your veneers. If you suffer from this condition, your dentist can provide a custom night guard to protect your teeth while you sleep. Addressing stress and practicing relaxation techniques can also help reduce bruxism.

7. Quit Smoking

Smoking not only stains your natural teeth and veneers but also increases your risk of gum disease, which can compromise the longevity of your veneers. Quitting smoking can significantly improve your oral health and the appearance of your smile.

By following these tips and visiting the dentist regularly, you can ensure that your dental veneers last for many years. At Pro Health Dental in Mission Viejo, we are committed to helping you achieve and maintain a beautiful, healthy smile. We serve patients across Orange County, including Lake Forest, Aliso Viejo, Laguna Niguel, Dana Point, and surrounding cities. If you have any questions or need further advice on caring for your veneers, don’t hesitate to contact us. Your smile is our priority!

Are you considering Fastbraces to straighten your teeth but worried about how they will impact your active lifestyle, particularly when playing sports? The good news is thatFastbraces are designed with your comfort and convenience in mind, allowing you to participate in sports without limitations.

Our team in Mission Viejo offers Fastbraces as a revolutionary solution for achieving a straighter smile in less time than traditional braces. 

Durable and Comfortable

Fastbraces are specifically engineered to be durable and comfortable, making them suitable for athletes of all ages and activity levels. Whether you’re playing basketball, soccer, or engaging in high-contact sports, Fastbraces can withstand the demands of your athletic endeavors.

Innovative Technology

Unlike traditional braces, which typically require longer treatment times, Fastbraces utilize innovative technology to expedite the orthodontic process. With Fastbraces, you may achieve results in as little as three to twelve months, allowing you to focus on your performance without prolonged treatment duration.

Additionally, Fastbraces offer several advantages for athletes. These include: 

Minimal Discomfort

Fastbraces are designed to exert gentle yet effective forces on the teeth, reducing discomfort during orthodontic treatment. This means you can continue to participate in sports without being sidelined by mouth pain or irritation.

Flexible Maintenance

Fastbraces are simple to clean and maintain, allowing you to maintain a flexible oral hygiene schedule even while wearing braces. Proper oral care is essential for athletes to prevent dental issues and maintain overall health.

Customized Fit

Fastbraces are custom-made to fit your unique dental structure, ensuring a snug and secure fit during sports. You won’t have to worry about braces interfering with your mouthguard or causing discomfort while wearing protective gear.

We understand the importance of maintaining an active lifestyle and will work with you to ensure your orthodontic treatment aligns with your goals. Don’t let concerns about braces hold you back from enjoying the sports you love. Schedule a consultation with Pro Health Dental today to learn more about Fastbraces and how they can enhance your smile.

If you are distracted by protruding teeth on your smile, you’re not alone. Protruding teeth, also known as buck teeth or overjet, can have an effect on your oral health. However, there are solutions available to address this common dental issue.

At Pro Health Dental, our Mission Viejo dentist and team understands the importance of a confident smile and offers various treatments for protruding teeth. 

Orthodontic Treatment

One of the most effective ways to correct protruding teeth is through orthodontic treatment. Traditional braces or clear aligners can gradually move your teeth into proper alignment, reducing the prominence of protrusion and improving the overall appearance of your smile. At Pro Health Dental, our experienced orthodontists will customize a treatment plan tailored to your needs and goals.

Fastbraces

Fastbraces offer a quicker solution for those seeking to correct protruding teeth. A difference with regular braces is that they utilize innovative technology to move both the root and crown of the teeth simultaneously, potentially reducing treatment time. Many patients wonder if they can wear Fastbraces during sports – the answer is yes! Fastbraces are designed to be comfortable and durable, allowing you to continue your active lifestyle without interruption.

Cosmetic Dentistry

In some cases, protruding teeth may require additional cosmetic procedures such as veneers. This process can help camouflage the appearance of protrusion, creating a more harmonious smile. Our skilled cosmetic dentists can assess your individual needs and recommend the best course of action.

Surgical Intervention

In severe cases of protruding teeth, surgical intervention may be necessary. Orthognathic surgery can reposition the jaw to correct bite alignment issues, ultimately improving facial aesthetics and function. Our team will work closely with you to determine if surgical treatment is the right choice for your situation.

Don’t let the complications of protruding teeth affect your smile and oral health. Schedule a consultation with Pro Health Dental in Mission Viejo today to explore your options for achieving a beautiful, balanced smile.

Dental crowns have many important uses, from replacing a missing tooth so that someone can chew again to protecting damaged teeth from further harm.

For many, a crown made of biocompatible dental porcelain that looks exactly like the tooth or top of a one that has been ground down has the most important benefit of restoring confidence in flashing a full and friendly smile. A crown can even contribute to you having such a gleaming grin that you may find others comparing it to those of celebrities on small and large screens everywhere (who rarely were born ready for their close-ups without crowns enhancing those very beautiful smiles).

Zirconia Crowns

But many dental practices do not use what Dr. Gruita has found to be the best option for the material for crowns, which is Zirconia, a strong and durable metal fused to cosmetic porcelain. Whatever your need for a crown alone or in conjunction with other procedures as part of a smile makeover, she is the experienced and trusted expert who can create or restore what is your uniquely perfect smile: https://prohealthdental.com/dental-crowns/.

Unfortunately, most Americans do not fully realize that dentistry is the one medical specialty which requires the full participation of the patient. You can’t simply take a pill or go to the gym and regain or maintain your health. But cleaning teeth and crowns can be very challenging.

Brushing and Flossing Practices

Few of us grew up understanding that unless we do a very thorough brushing after breakfast for two minutes (to remove not only food and juice and coffee, but the bacteria that accumulated overnight in the mouth), plaque will start to form. This is the bacterial film that can quickly infect gums, causing them to pull away their support, ultimately leading to teeth falling out or needing to be extracted.

Likewise, brushing teeth and crowns needs to be repeated after the last snack and drink of the night, when flossing is also necessary afterwards. Both brushing and flossing right can be difficult. Brushing needs to be done from the gum line to the top on both sides and along the tops of teeth and crowns used for chewing.

Flossing correctly also requires moving the string from the bottom to the top against the sides of  each, then moving it to a clean part to avoid contaminating the next area between the teeth.

If you are not certain about the details, ask your dental hygienist to show you exactly how to do brushing and flossing to prevent periodontal (gum) disease.

It is also important to also have your hygienist give you a professional cleaning at least every six months, since she has the tools and techniques to enable her to do a better job than anyone can do for themselves. This may include inserting an antibacterial solution where an infection is advanced, which is very common. 

Call Pro Health Dental today to set an appointment for a full oral health and cosmetic dental evaluation to find out what your best options are on the journey to your unique perfect smile.

Understanding the connection between cavities and gum disease is not just about medical jargon; it’s about caring for your smile with warmth and compassion. Breaking down the potential complications and consequences, it is important to keep iin mind that your oral health journey should be a comfortable and positive one.

Tooth Loss

Losing a tooth can be concerning, but when we understand the connection between cavities and gum disease, we empower ourselves to prevent this outcome. Untreated cavities can progress to the point where they affect the tooth’s pulp and lead to root canal infections. These infections can, in turn, travel to the surrounding gum tissue, weakening the support structure. It’s crucial to address these issues early, preserving your radiant smile.

Increased Infection Risk

Cavities, at their core, are bacteria infections, and gum disease is a battle in the delicate balance of our oral ecosystem. The link between them creates a scenario where untreated cavities can effortlessly infiltrate inflamed gum tissue. It’s like a story of two adversaries—bacteria and your resilient body. Understanding this connection helps us support our body’s defenses more effectively.

Chronic Pain and Discomfort

Dealing with pain from cavities or gum disease can be emotionally draining. When we leave cavities unattended, they may escalate to painful dental abscesses, causing distress and threatening our well-being. In addition, gum disease can create persistent gum discomfort and inflammation. These two together can cause constant oral pain. This is why our dental team in Mission Viejo advocates for early intervention with the utmost care and understanding.

Aesthetic Consequences

Our smiles are our windows to the world, and they deserve to shine brightly. When cavities and gum disease are left unchecked, they can affect our smile’s aesthetics. Cavities often leave behind unsightly dark spots or holes, while gum disease can lead to gum recession and tooth mobility. By nurturing your oral health, you can maintain a confident, beautiful smile, radiating warmth to everyone you meet.

While treating advanced cavities and gum disease can be costly, making prevention and early intervention can be the more affordable, gentle path to follow. Regular dental check-ups and a commitment to oral hygiene are not only kind to your wallet but also supportive of your overall health and well-being.

Understanding the connection between cavities and gum disease allows us to approach our oral health journey with warmth and positivity. By recognizing the potential complications and consequences, you can embark on a journey that nurtures your radiant smile. Regular dental visits, gentle oral care practices, and a mindful lifestyle are your allies in this endeavor, ensuring a healthy, happy smile that shines with warmth for years to come.

Every now and then, despite the commendable strides in dental care and treatment, certain situations can render a tooth impossible to save. Perhaps, a segment of the tooth may have broken off, creating a ground for infection. Even with a crown in place, the issue persists. When faced with such a predicament, you might opt for tooth extraction. This step, though necessary, leaves a gap in your bite, a situation that could be rectified with a dental implant – an effective solution that fills the gap while enhancing your smile. However, it’s worth noting that dental implants, remarkably efficient as they may be, can at times fail. To this end, it’s imperative to familiarize yourself with the signs of dental implant failure.

Key Indicators of a Failing Dental Implant: What Should You Look Out For?

A failing dental implant can exhibit a host of symptoms. However, pain stands out as the most common symptom. This could be likened to the pain experienced with the original tooth before extraction. Such pain could hint at the presence of bacteria, which could potentially cause an infection.

Also, experiencing inflammation around the implant area is not uncommon. This may be manifested in swollen, tender gums. In more severe instances, you might notice a discharge of pus at the site of the dental implant, which points to a bacterial infection.

Bleeding could also be observed in these circumstances. If you have grappled with pain and inflammation brought about by the dental implant, the impact may extend to your ability to chew your food properly.

Beyond this, it’s critical to monitor if the dental implant feels loose. This can happen even without the presence of pain and other symptoms. A loose dental implant, however, can provide a conducive environment for bacteria to thrive, which could result in an infection.

Paying your dentist a visit when you notice any of these symptoms can facilitate earlier detection of the problem. A loose dental implant, for example, might just need a quick fix. But if the problem stems from the implant itself, you may require a new one.

Being familiar with and identifying the signs of dental implant failure can help you avoid issues like infection and inflammation in the long run. Unsettled about whether your dental implant is functional? Get in touch with Pro Health Dental. As a prominent dentist in Mission Viejo, CA, we are committed to helping you identify issues with dental implants and addressing them promptly to ward off complications.

When you are dealing with concerns about the quality of your smile, there is an array of possible remedies a cosmetic dentist can offer to enhance your appearance. One highly favored alternative entails the application of veneers to your teeth. Porcelain veneers have earned a stellar reputation, but the lingering question on your mind might revolve around the needed quantity. In this comprehensive guide, we delve deep into key factors that influence this crucial decision.

Critical Aspects that Determine the Number of Porcelain Veneers Necessary

Dental veneers are not a novelty in the world of dentistry. They’ve found use since the early 1930s, but porcelain veneers have increasingly gained favor in recent years for their natural-looking aesthetic and durability.

Several factors come into play when establishing how many porcelain veneers you require. A paramount starting point is, undoubtedly, your smile. When examining yourself in the mirror, giving yourself a wide, self-assured grin, you can assess the extent of your issue more accurately. This simple self-inspection can significantly assist in determining your needs.

The total count of teeth you need to rectify with porcelain veneers lies at the heart of deciding the precise number needed. An important point to ponder is whether the upper or lower set of your teeth requires rectification, and in certain instances, both may need attention.

Beyond the number of veneers, the overall size of your smile bears consideration too. This will offer insight into the extent of intervention required since it isn’t solely about the quantity of veneers. The size of each veneer significantly matters. Larger veneers demand more intense labor during application and exhaust more of the porcelain material.

If uncertainty still abounds on the precise count of veneers you need, it is prudent to seek guidance from your cosmetic dentist. Their professional expertise will enable them to visually inspect your oral cavity and recommend an optimal course of action. They can help you decide on just the right number of veneers necessary to reinvigorate your smile.

Regardless of whether you’ve had experience with Invisalign or other minor concerns about the look of your smile, porcelain veneers can be a game-changer in brightening your smile and enhancing your teeth’s overall aesthetics.

Pro Health Dental, a preferred dentist practice situated in the heart of Mission Viejo, CA, is poised to help you achieve your dream smile. We pride ourselves on our wealth of experience and commitment to providing an empathetic, professional experience for all our patients.