We are very grateful that the office staff are fully vaccinated. Even the second dose have gotten to us all in our office, it was worth a sacrifice in combating Coronavirus spread. This doesn't mean that we stop using masks as Covid-19 Vaccine becomes available for everyone, this is not the time to be complacent. We still keep the extra safety protocols that we have implemented. Here at Jeff Velasquez, DDS Dental Office, we have been exercising Universal Precaution even before pandemic. Since the outbreak, we have added a lot of safety precautions. Dr. Velasquez have added negative air pressure room, the rest of the rooms are equipped with extra-Oral Air Suction Machine and air purifiers.  
Vaccination is now being given to everyone...
Yet virus variants still coming out, therefore its only wise that we stay vigilant. Keep our mask on when going to public places, wash our hands thoroughly and keep 6 feet away from each other until these viruses are controlled and eradicated, until full protection from its spread is given to us all. 
For more updated information go to to the WHO & CDC Websites:
    >World Health Organization (WHO): https://www.who.int 
    >Centers for Disease Control (CDC): https://www.cdc.gov
​By Vbav

Seniors have certain specific concerns and dental needs. These are the frequently asked questions at Jeff Velasquez DDS, Long Beach Dentist.

Why Do I suddenly have so many cavities?
One of the most common causes of cavities on seniors is DRY MOUTH due to medications. Decreased salivary flow results to dry mouth hence increases the chances of getting cavities.  Saliva neutralizes acid, help wash away food residues from eating, and also contains elements that helps repair early tooth damage and decay. Proper oral care, nutrition & regular dental check up is recommended.

Why do I experience more & more teeth sensitivity?
As we age, our teeth becomes more sensitive due to receding gums over time. Gum disease, grinding and wrong brushing techniques cause gum recession  which can result to exposure of the roots of the teeth. All of these in turn causes sensitivity. We recommend using soft bristled toothbrush and certain toothpaste for sensitive teeth.

Am I at a higher RISK for oral Cancer as I grow older?
Yes, oral cancer is a concern. Regular trips to the dentist facilitates early detection. Most importantly, when you are a smoker, heavy alcohol user or has family history of the disease, you are at a high risk. 

Are Implants a better OPTION for my dentures?
Implants are the best options replacing dentures and missing teeth. There are factors to consider whether a patient is a good candidate for implant. It depends on your age, health, bone amount & density and finances. Only your dentist and you can decide on your course of treatment.  

Do I still need dental check up even if I am wearing FULL Dentures?
Yes, your dentures may become loose over time due to continuous recession of bone caused by stress of chewing. (That's why Implants are a better option) Dentures need regular reline and adjustment. Oral health doesn't only involve your teeth but your gums & surrounding tissues. ​

Regular flossing is more important than ever.
If you don’t floss regularly, this might persuade you to change your behavior.

Patients with gum disease are more likely to experience severe, potentially life-threatening complications if they contract COVID-19 and need to be hospitalized, according to a new report published online in the Journal of the California Dental Association.
​
Chronic gum disease, or periodontitis, is characterized by swollen, bleeding gums and bone loss. It produces a bacteria that releases a harmful protein known as IL-6 (interleukin-6). IL-6 is an inflammatory cytokine that can trigger the out-of-control reaction of the immune system known as a cytokine storm. The report referenced the findings of a German study of 40 hospitalized COVID-19 patients published in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology in May. It concluded that patients with elevated IL-6 levels were 22 times more likely to suffer respiratory failure and require mechanical ventilation.

Since the beginning of the pandemic, nearly 80% of patients placed on ventilators in the United States have died, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
“Gum disease has been linked to other breathing ailments, including pneumonia and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) so we weren’t surprised to find a link to respiratory problems with COVID-19,” said Dr. Shervin Molayem, a U.S. dental surgeon based in Los Angeles and founder of the UCLA Dental Research Journal, in a news release last week.

“What shocked us was the discovery of the protein’s devastating, life-threatening impact to patients once they’re hospitalized. One tiny, inflammatory protein robbed them of their ability to breathe,” he said. Molayem and Dr. Carla Pontes, a scientist and health care researcher in South Africa, expanded upon the German study’s results for their Mouth-Covid Connection report. They noted that IL-6 can disrupt capillary blood gas exchange in the lungs, contributing to pulmonary failure.
The researchers hope the link between periodontitis and severe COVID-19 cases will compel nursing homes to screen residents for gum disease and elevated IL-6 levels. They also suggested that emergency room physicians check patients for gum disease, a diagnosis that could alert nursing staffs to closely monitor a patient's breathing.

The findings are an important reminder that poor dental hygiene can have serious ramifications for one’s overall health. Frequent brushing and flossing are essential to prevent periodontal disease, including gingivitis, which is reversible.
​Many people are putting off dentist appointments during the pandemic because of concerns about infection. Ironically, deferred checkups could put them at greater risk of a severe case of COVID-19 if they have gum disease.

If your gums are swollen and prone to bleeding, do yourself a favor — see your dentist.
If you don’t floss regularly, this might persuade you to change your behavior.
Patients with gum disease are more likely to experience severe, potentially life-threatening complications if they contract COVID-19 and need to be hospitalized, according to a new report published online in the Journal of the   California Dental Association.
By: Mike Moffitt, SFGATE