Thousand Oaks Dental Blog

Thousand Oaks Dental is Your Dentist in San Antonio

December 6, 2019 General DentistryThousand Oaks DentalComments Off on Thousand Oaks Dental is Your Dentist in San Antonio

Finding a dentist that you love and trust in San Antonio, Texas, can be a challenge. While all dental practices have to meet certain minimum requirements, there can be vast differences in the quality of patient care from one to the next. Some establishments do the bare minimum, while others go out of their way to ensure patient satisfaction.

If you’re looking for a San Antonio dentist, then you’ve come to the right place. Thousand Oaks dental gives you what you’ve always wanted from a dentist: a friendly, reliable, safe, and patient-focused service that offers the latest treatments. 

Why Thousand Oaks Should Be Your San Antonio Dentist

Patients in San Antonio are learning that there is a vast difference in the quality of patient care offered by different dentists across the city. While some, like Thousand Oaks, provide comprehensive services, others don’t, creating confusion, annoyance, and referrals. 

Thousand Oaks offers a wide range of treatments, including general dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, orthodontics, periodontal care, preventative medicine, sedation dentistry, restorative dentistry, and emergency care. The comprehensive service that we offer means that you can get all your dental treatment in-house: there’s no need to travel to another clinic. This fact means that you can build relationships with individual dentists at a single practice without having to go to new and unfamiliar places for treatment. 

If you want a beautiful smile, then Thousand Oaks is the ideal San Antonio dentist. We offer a wide variety of techniques designed to boost the appearance of your teeth and help you feel more confident. 

Veneers are one of our most popular procedures. We place a small, nail-sized piece of porcelain over the front of your teeth to cover up misshapen teeth, chips, and discoloration. 

You can also get composite fillings. These fillings don’t look like traditional amalgam. Instead, they’re white, just like the surrounding teeth, making them practically invisible while protecting you from further decay. 

With us, you can also get porcelain crowns, teeth whitening, and cosmetic bonding (if you want to close the gaps between your teeth). 

Thousand Oaks Is Your Dentist in San Antonio, Texas

Thousand Oaks Dental is a dental practice with a difference. It’s not just about the treatments themselves (although these are important), but also about the experience too. We want you to feel like you’ve come to a home away from home. That’s why we offer plush seating, beautiful surroundings, and friendly staff. 

We also understand that you want a dental practice in San Antonio that is available to provide care at times that are convenient for you. While many clinics insist that you get the treatment that you need during regular office hours, Monday to Friday, we don’t. With our flexible opening times, you’re able to get the treatment that you need fast, and at a time that’s convenient for you. 

So, in conclusion, what have we learned? We’ve discovered that Thousand Oaks, a dentist in San Antonio, Texas, offers a comprehensive and patient-focused service. We’ve also found out that the practice provides a variety of state-of-the-art treatments all under one roof. Both of these factors should make it your first choice. 

Scared of the Dentist? Try Sedation Dentistry in San Antonio

November 27, 2019 Sedation DentistryThousand Oaks DentalComments Off on Scared of the Dentist? Try Sedation Dentistry in San Antonio

A lot of people are scared of visiting their dentist in San Antonio. They worry about experiencing pain, panic, or discomfort while receiving treatment in the dentist’s chair. It’s a fear that can stop them from attending the dentist at all, leading to more severe dental issues in the future. 

The great thing about modern dentistry, however, is that it has found ways of bypassing patient’s fears and helping to make the experience much more pleasant. Here’s what you need to know.

What Is Sedation Dentistry In San Antonio? 

If you’re worried about going to the dentist, sedation dentistry can help. It’s a special type of dentistry that allows you to feel more relaxed while receiving treatment.

Sedation dentistry is different from using an anesthetic. With an anesthetic, you’re entirely unconscious 

while your dentist works on your mouth. With sedation dentistry, however, you’re still mildly conscious, but you feel more relaxed about everything that’s happening around you. You remain aware that your dentist is carrying out treatment, but you don’t experience fear or panic, as you might if you were fully awake.

Sedation dentistry, therefore, is excellent for people who don’t like the idea of tooth extractions, root canals, or dental implants while they’re awake. It’s a safe and effective method to help you feel more relaxed while you receive treatment. 

It’s important to note that sedation dentistry is not a substitute for an anesthetic. Whenever your dentist works on your mouth, they’ll still apply a local anesthetic to ensure that you don’t experience any pain. The primary purpose of sedation dentistry to help you feel relaxed and in control while in the dentists’ chair. It’s something that takes away your feelings of fear and anxiety, making the whole experience easier for both you and your dentist. 

When Can I Use Sedation Dentistry In San Antonio?

The great thing about sedation dentistry is that it’s both versatile and safe. Some risks come with using a general anesthetic. What’s more, it can leave you feeling tired for days afterward. Sedation dentistry in San Antonio, Texas, however, is a far more routine intervention that helps you to feel relaxed, without eliminating your conscious experiences. 

Furthermore, sedation dentistry is incredibly versatile. You can use it in conjunction with a wide variety of procedures, helping you to feel more comfortable as you receive treatment. 

The goal of modern dentistry should be to improve a patient’s quality of life. If you’re worried about an upcoming dental treatment, then it’s just what you need. 

What Type Of Sedation Dentistry Does Thousand Oaks Provide?

At Thousand Oaks Dental, we offer patients in San Antonio, Texas, sedation dentistry as an option alongside a wide variety of procedures. We use nitrous oxide – sometimes called “laughing gas.” Over the years, nitrous oxide has proven to be a safe and effective method for providing sedation. It keeps patients awake during treatment while also helping to alleviate persistent feelings of anxiety. It’s a great way to make your experience at the dentist much more relaxing and pleasant. Try it for yourself today!

Porcelain Veneers in San Antonio

November 20, 2019 Teeth WhiteningThousand Oaks DentalComments Off on Porcelain Veneers in San Antonio

 

 

Porcelain Veneers in San Antonio

Teeth are incredibly strong and durable. They sit in your mouth year after year, grinding down your food and providing structure to your jaw. 

Unfortunately, however, teeth aren’t indestructible. They don’t always remain pearly white and intact in your mouth as the years pass. Occasionally, they can become chipped or discolored. 

The problem with this, of course, is that it can hurt your confidence. You don’t want people around you to see that your damaged or yellow teeth. You’d much prefer it if they were white and the correct shape for your mouth. 

Here’s where porcelain veneers in San Antonio can help. Porcelain veneers restore your teeth to a beautiful natural shape and whiteness using a nail-sized piece of material that covers the tooth. They provide you with a way of instantaneously upgrading your smile without the need to remove teeth or even using whitening methods. 

What Are Porcelain Veneers

Porcelain veneers are small, nail-like coverings that fit over the front face of your tooth. They’re designed to hide the damaged, misshapen, or off-white tooth behind, instantly providing you with a beautiful smile. 

Fitting porcelain veneers in San Antonio is easy. First, your dental practitioner files down the surface of the teeth receiving the porcelain veneers. The reason dentists do this is so that the veneer doesn’t look as if it is stuck on top of the tooth. 

The next stage is to use dental cement to apply the veneer to the surface of the tooth. The veneer then sticks on, covering up any signs of damage or yellowing. Thus, it’s the perfect way to instantly transform your smile, giving you the beautiful teeth that you’ve always wanted. 

How Do I Get Porcelain Veneers In San Antonio?

Are you looking for porcelain veneers in San Antonio, Texas? Would you like to improve the look of your smile and gain more confidence? 

Porcelain veneers at Thousand Oaks come with financing packages to suit every budget. You can either pay for treatment upfront or spread the cost over many months. The great thing about today’s financing is that you can lower the monthly cost of treatment until the point where it becomes affordable to you. Lower monthly payments are available.  

The Benefits Of Porcelain Veneers

The benefits of porcelain veneers are extraordinary, which is why so many people in San Antonio, Texas, choose to get the treatment. 

The main advantage is the fact that it can instantly boost your smile, giving you a new look immediately. But patients also love the fact that porcelain veneers are a permanent fix for chipped, misshapen, or teeth discolored by antibiotics. The fact that porcelain veneers last a lifetime is excellent news for people who want to keep their original teeth but don’t want to have to put up with the downsides. 

So what have we learned? Essentially, we’ve discovered that porcelain veneers are a powerful and minimally-invasive way  to restore your smile. What’s more, it’s versatile, cost-effective, and long-lasting.

Sedation Dentistry FAQs – San Antonio

September 6, 2019 Sedation DentistryThousand Oaks DentalComments Off on Sedation Dentistry FAQs – San Antonio

Sedation Dentistry – FAQ

Thousand Oaks Dental offers sedation dentistry in San Antonio, TX for patients who have a fear of the dentist. Many types of people may be suitable for sedation dentistry. Here, we look at some FAQs.

Who Is Sedation Dentistry For?

Sedation dentistry is ideal for those who get anxiety when visiting the dentist. It can also be suitable for those who are afraid of needles and/or shots, those who have had a traumatic dental experience in the past, and those who have overly sensitive teeth, a strong gag reflex, or trouble getting numb.

Some people might need more complex dental treatment, and in these cases sedation dentistry can potentially make the treatment more comfortable and manageable. Our clinic in San Antonio, TX performs sedation dentistry safely on all kinds of clients.

Will I Feel Anything During My Treatment?

Patients do not feel anything in most cases. Patients often report feeling very little discomfort, as well as feeling relaxed and comfortable with no memory of the treatment afterwards.

What Are The Benefits Of Sedation Dentistry?

There are many benefits of sedation dentistry. It can help to reduce and eliminate feelings of discomfort and anxiety, and allow you to undergo complex dental treatment with no issues. Those who are afraid of the dentist often put off treatment until things are very painful, but sedation dentistry at Thousand Oaks Dental in San Antonio, TX can ensure treatment is nothing to worry about.

What Do You Use For Sedation Dentistry?

Nitrous oxide, also referred to as “laughing gas”. This has been safely used for decades to calm down patients that receive dental care. It is the preferred method as the patient remains awake during the treatment, and it helps them to become more relaxed. You will still be conscious and responsive, just in a comfortable state of relaxation. It is administered with the help of a breathing mask. Many people report feelings of euphoria while in the chair. A huge benefit is that it leaves the system quickly once the treatment is over, so you are clear headed and usually able to drive home after the treatment in San Antonio, TX.

However, depending on the type of treatment, how quick your body is to recover and other factors, you might still prefer to have somebody drive you home after the treatment.

Is Sedation Dentistry Completely Safe?

This type of dentistry is a totally safe and effective way for lots of patients to receive the dental treatment that they need. You will always receive a consultation beforehand so you can feel confident that this is the right treatment for you. Our clinic in San Antonio, TX will always ensure the patient is 100% on board before going ahead with treatment.

Sedation dentistry is a service offered by Thousand Oaks Dental in San Antonio, TX. It’s a great way to receive dental treatment for patients who are severely anxious or require complex treatment that may be uncomfortable. It’s totally safe, you are conscious, and the effects wear off quickly. Call us to discuss in more detail.

Know About the Importance of Your Gums – San Antonio, TX

May 15, 2019 PeriodonticsThousand Oaks DentalComments Off on Know About the Importance of Your Gums – San Antonio, TX

Children, or even adults, are constantly reminded to brush twice a day to avoid the bad guys like cavities from harming their teeth. However, aside from the teeth, there is another oral structure that also requires a sufficient amount of care and attention – the gums. Do know that the teeth are not the only ones who can benefit from daily oral hygiene activities. How you treat your gums can make a big difference! When brushing, people are encouraged to include the area along the gumline for best results.

 

Periodontal Care

 

What makes the gums as important as the teeth?

Many people may not realize it, but the gums are essential in maintaining excellent overall oral health. Know that if the gums are compromised, the teeth are affected as well. The soft tissues are one of the structures that keep the teeth in place, meaning both the teeth and gums are connected in some way. For example, untreated gum disease does not only lead to the decline of the soft tissues; it may even cause tooth loss due to the destruction of the bony oral structures.

Unfortunately, people who suffer from gum disease may experience other issues that are not exclusive to the oral regions. Based on some researches and studies, their risk of developing diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, dementia, pregnancy complications, and chronic respiratory disease increases as well.

For patients to keep not only their oral wellness but general health in shape, it is best to observe the best practices in gum treatment. To help them, we at Thousand Oaks Dental listed some easy tips to follow!

 

Gum Care Tips

Stop smoking

People are already aware of the negative impacts of smoking on the body, yet many still ignore this warning. Do remember that when this bad habit is tolerated, it increases a person’s risk of developing gum disease.

Make sure to brush and floss

Brushing and flossing are the simplest yet easily ignored oral hygiene practices. Do know that brushing alone is not enough since some areas of the teeth can be left uncleaned. It is best to perform both for best results.

  • Quick fact: Know that flossing actually helps the gums stay healthy. Aside from removing stuck food debris, it also massages the soft tissue which increases blood flow for better healing.

Eat healthily

Incorporating healthy foods to one’s diet is a good practice to keep the body healthy. But, do know that it also works wonders for the teeth, gums, and other oral structures. Certain foods are best for the gums not only because of the nutrients they have, but they contain anti-inflammatory properties at the same time.

Schedule regular checkups and cleanings

Patients are encouraged to visit the dentist every six months for their routine professional cleanings and checkups. During appointments, dentists would thoroughly get rid of harmful accumulations in the mouth and then check for symptoms of gum disease. Afterward, the dentist would recommend the treatments needed to cure the complication before it worsens.

At our practice, we are not only committed to caring for your oral health but general wellness as well. Since gum disease can affect this balance, we offer several services that can handle gum care effectively.

 

If you experience early signs of periodontal disease, like the sudden bleeding of gums, bad breath, or loose teeth, contact our office at Thousand Oaks Dental for Periodontal Care in San Antonio, TX! Let us help take care of your overall oral health. Book an appointment now!

It’s Time to Get a New Denture! – San Antonio, TX

April 25, 2019 Restorative DentistryThousand Oaks DentalComments Off on It’s Time to Get a New Denture! – San Antonio, TX

No matter how a person takes care of their dentures, the oral device is not a permanent restoration. It can wear out over time. Besides, some other factors may necessitate the wearer to replace their old restorative device. How can people tell if they need to switch to new dentures? Here are the signs:

Pain and discomfort that appear persistently

A worn down denture can lead to TMJ disorder. This condition causes chronic pain or discomfort such as headaches, facial nerve pain, persistent jaw pain, and earaches. Dental professionals require patients to bring their restorative appliance to the clinic and have it checked.

Cleaning Hassles

When dentures do not fit tightly to the gums, it is possible for the food particles to gather in the gaps. Wearers will find it a challenging task to clear these residues, therefore. Dentures that trap foods need to be replaced right away—doing so will not only make the person’s cleaning activity smoother, but it will help decrease the risk of bacterial growth as well.

Chewing Problems

Switching to a new denture is preferable when the said restorative appliance no longer serves its purpose which is to restore the wearer’s chewing function. People may compromise their overall health if they continue to stick with their wonky dentures.

 

Senior patient at the dentist

 

Get A New Denture Now!

Dentures are bound to make the wearers daily function easier and comfortable—not the other way around. So if you notice some problems with your old oral device, replace it now!

We at Thousand Oaks Dental offer dentures services in San Antonio, TX. For denture-wearers who are no longer happy with the performance of their teeth replacement, you are welcome to avail a new denture in our dental office.

Our practice provides two types of dentures: Partial and Full. The first option is suitable to those who have lost a single or few of their teeth while the other alternative is for people who do not have any remaining teeth left either on the top or bottom jaw.

 

Are you ready to replace your old teeth replacement? Avail our Dentures in San Antonio, TX. Set an appointment with us at Thousand Oaks Dental. You may visit our clinic at 2235 Thousand Oaks Dr. Suite 120 San Antonio, TX 78232.

Have No Fear, for Sedation Dentistry Is Here! – San Antonio, TX

March 1, 2019 Sedation DentistryThousand Oaks DentalComments Off on Have No Fear, for Sedation Dentistry Is Here! – San Antonio, TX

Fear is the natural response of the brain to something unfamiliar or is perceived as a threat. However, it can also be harmful at times. For example, people who fear anything that involves dentistry would rather avoid scheduling visits. As a result, developing complications can worsen since diagnosis and preventive measures are not taken.

At Thousand Oaks Dental, we understand that not all people are comfortable with the thought of dental visits and we also know the consequences of avoiding such practice. To provide a solution, our office presents Sedation Dentistry! It is a procedure performed by dentists using certain forms of sedatives to offer the comfort and peace of mind that patients need. With it, patients are sure to get the oral health care they need and deserve without anything that can get in the way.

 

Patient under sedation

 

Candidates for Sedation Dentistry

Besides being fearful, there are other reasons that one may need a particular sedation option. Here is a list of people or condition that can benefit from sedation dentistry:

  • Resistant to anesthesia
  • Fear of needles
  • In need of complex procedures like surgery
  • Negative dental experiences
  • Unbearable dental pain
  • Dental phobia or anxiety
  • Severe gag reflex
  • Highly sensitive teeth
  • Discomfort caused by the smell and noises in a dental office
  • Physical limitations
  • A problem in movement controls
  • Multiple dental procedures in a single appointment

There are several sedation dentistry options available, all of which are sure to cater to the unique needs of patients. Before providing a particular sedative to a patient, the dentist would first check their medical record and list of taken medicines to ensure effectivity and safety.

 

Type of Sedation Dentistry Options

Oral sedation uses a certain pill which is provided and taken an hour before the scheduled appointment to make sure it has taken effect by then.

IV sedation, as its name implies, is administered using an intravenous approach to take effect instantaneously. Dentists can quickly and continuously adjust the level of sedation to make sure the patient remains completely comfortable.

Deep sedation (general anesthesia) uses medications that will make the patient almost or entirely unconscious. They will need to wait for it to fade or it can be countered by the dentist using a particular medicine.

Nitrous oxide or commonly known as laughing gas uses a mask worn over the nose that gives off a gas throughout the scheduled appointment. The approach does not involve the use of needles, and it can also be adjusted when needed that is why we chose to offer this at our practice. Once the gas is inhaled, it will take effect in a few minutes and also fades as fast if regular air is breathed.

 

If you are interested in an anxious-free and comfortable dental experience, avail of our Sedation Dentistry with Nitrous Oxide in San Antonio, TX! Call us at Thousand Oaks Dental to know more and to book your appointment.

FAQs About Tooth Extraction Aftercare in San Antonio, TX

February 1, 2019 General DentistryThousand Oaks DentalComments Off on FAQs About Tooth Extraction Aftercare in San Antonio, TX

Tooth extraction – this is often the most dreaded procedure of many people. Whenever a dentist recommends a person for tooth removal, the typical responses are fear and negligence. Thousand Oaks Dental understands that not everyone is determined enough to undergo teeth extractions, that is why we make use of the different means to provide them with a smooth dental experience. Our dentist secures the patient’s comfort by administering local anesthesia on the affected site before starting the procedure.

 

General Dentistry

 

Teeth extractions are pain-free indeed. However, patients may still encounter discomfort during their recovery period that usually lasts for a few days or weeks. We want you to be prepared. With that, we answer some of the frequently asked questions about tooth extraction aftercare.

How to alleviate swelling?

It is normal for the treated area to swell after the procedure. Swelling usually lasts for two to three days. There is no need to panic. Simply get an ice pack and place it on the side of the cheek where the surgery took place. Apply the cold compress for 15 minutes, wait for another 15 minutes before putting the ice pack back on. Repeat the process for one to two hours.

What to eat after teeth extractions?

Switching to a soft diet is best. Try eating mashed potatoes, soup, oatmeal, smoothies, and yogurts instead of crunchy snacks. Remember that a day following the procedure, the newly treated site is still sensitive and vulnerable.

What are things to avoid?

Certain practices and habits need to be stopped to hasten the healing process. The following are some of the things that the person should ditch:

  • Smoking
  • Drinking with straw
  • Strenuous activities
  • Poking the affected area with toothpick or tongue

 

How to treat bleeding?

Keep the gauze provided by the dentist intact. Like swelling, bleeding of the extraction site is normal. However, if it persists, try placing a wet tea bag. The properties present in black tea can assist with the clotting process.

 

If you encounter serious problems while recovering, call us at Thousand Oaks Dental immediately. For more information about Tooth Extraction in San Antonio, TX, visit us at 2235 Thousand Oaks Dr. Suite 120 San Antonio, TX 78232.

All About MTM® Clear Aligner in San Antonio, TX

January 1, 2019 OrthodonticsThousand Oaks DentalComments Off on All About MTM® Clear Aligner in San Antonio, TX

How easy is getting a straight set of teeth? If you will ask us at Thousand Oaks Dental, owning a well-aligned smile is more convenient than ever! Today’s orthodontic dentistry eliminates the use of metal brackets and wires for teeth straightening to give patients a pleasant treatment. Different selections of clear aligners are made available nowadays, so those who are planning to correct their teeth or bites can acquire a more discreet option.

One transparent aligner brand that stands out is MTM® Clear Aligner. Here at Thousand Oaks Dental, our orthodontic patients can take advantage of this treatment. We customize trays to provide a perfect-fitting oral device. Plus, the materials used to fabricate MTM® Clear Aligner are 100% free from BPA! Take a read at the information listed below to know more about MTM®.

 

Clear Aligner

 

Facts About MTM® Clear Aligner

It is not just your typical clear aligner. MTM® is the best option if you want to experience real orthodontic treatment benefits. Below are the facts that will tell you why MTM® Clear Aligner is one of the best consideration.

MTM® Clear Aligner offers a shorter treatment period

Traditional braces require patients to wear the unsightly appliance for a year or two. But with MTM® Clear Aligner, straighter teeth is possible in as early as six months!

The aligner is aesthetically pleasing

MTM® Clear Aligner ensures orthodontic patients with the best results without compromising the appearance of their pearly whites. Since the tray is less noticeable, it will not affect the looks of the teeth.

Eating foods with MTM® Clear Aligner is not a problem

The oral device is removable, which means that the person can quickly get rid of it when eating. Patients are free to enjoy their favorite snacks or treats without placing risks to the MTM® Clear Aligner.

MTM® Clear Aligner can mend various teeth imperfections

The primary goal of the treatment is to fix teeth irregularities to reveal a straighter smile for the patient. The good news is, MTM® Clear Aligner is a versatile option. Patients with spacing issues, twisted teeth, and those whose tooth is tilting outside or inside the mouth can benefit from it.

 

The road to a straighter, healthier mouth begins with an orthodontist appointment. If you’re looking for MTM® Clear Aligner in San Antonio, TX, contact us at Thousand Oaks Dental and schedule an appointment. We’ll make sure to answer any other questions you might have.

The Remarkable History of Porcelain Veneers in San Antonio, TX

December 1, 2018 Cosmetic DentistryThousand Oaks DentalComments Off on The Remarkable History of Porcelain Veneers in San Antonio, TX

Dental veneers are the people’s go-to treatment in today’s time merely because these prostheses can fix various teeth flaws. At Thousand Oaks Dental, we provide veneers with porcelain as the primary material. We believe in the potential of porcelain veneers to deliver a long-lasting result to patients because of their durability. Unfortunately, people are sometimes hesitant to invest in this type of cosmetic dentistry option due to the cost. But here at Thousand Oaks Dental, we offer financing packages to fit your budget.

Veneers are actually not a new thing. In the late 1920s, these impressive artificial tooth caps already existed in Hollywood. With the aim of Dr. Charles Pincus to enhance the smile of his celebrity patients, removable veneers were created. The popularity of veneers spread to the public between the 1920s and the 1950s. Regular people shape their smiles that have been deteriorated by oral disease or tooth loss using veneers.

Until such time, dental professionals started bonding the prostheses to the teeth. Unfortunately, the dentists find it hard to bond them appropriately. Porcelain and composite materials were utilized as well. Plus, an expert in the person of Dr. Michael Bunocore came up with a procedure that will help the veneers stick to the teeth well.

It was in the early 80s that modern veneers really began. People can conveniently acquire the treatment because it became less expensive and readily available.

 

Smiling Girl

 

Porcelain Veneers In The Present-Day

The development of advanced dental technology made porcelain veneers even more lifelike. New techniques in terms of their placement also let the patients’ treatment experiences more convenient and comfortable. Many rely on the ability of porcelain veneers to mend chipped, cracked, gapped, discolored, crooked, and broken teeth.

Indeed, porcelain veneers allow people to enhance not just their smiles, but their confidence as well. They can now show the world their glowing grin without worrying about the looks of their pearly whites – and fear of being embarrassed, of course!

 

If you are convinced of the power of porcelain veneers to transform your appearance, talk to us at Thousand Oaks Dental now! Our team is excited to be a part of your smile journey. You may book an appointment with us for your Porcelain Veneers in San Antonio, TX. We are located at 2235 Thousand Oaks Dr. Suite 120 San Antonio, TX 78232.