Another Smile Saved - Kisses' shared her Braces experience.
​Thank you Kisses

The Hidden Dangers of Dental Sepsis – A Call to Action for Your Health
Dental health is often overlooked until pain becomes unbearable. However, what many don't realize is that untreated dental issues can lead to severe health problems, including a life-threatening condition known as dental sepsis.

What is Dental Sepsis?
Dental sepsis occurs when an infection in the teeth or gums spreads into the bloodstream, leading to a systemic response that can affect the entire body. It's a dangerous condition that requires immediate medical attention.

A Tragic Example: The Case of Mike Williams 
Mike Williams, 36 years old, a former NFL player, tragically passed away due to complications linked to untreated dental sepsis according to medical examiner after suffering injuries in a construction accident. What started as a manageable work related accident escalated into a systemic infection, demonstrating the severe consequences of ignoring dental care. His story serves as a somber reminder of the critical importance of maintaining oral health.

The Connection Between Oral Health and Overall Health
According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), poor oral health has been linked to a variety of systemic health issues, including heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory infections. Dental sepsis is one of the most severe outcomes of neglected oral health, leading to complications that can be fatal if not promptly treated.

Stages of Odontogenic Infections
Odontogenic infections, which can lead to dental sepsis, progress through three key stages:

1. Stage 1 (1-3 days): Soft, mildly tender swelling.
2. Stage 2 (2-5 days): Hard, red, and severely sore swelling.
3. Stage 3 (5-7 days): Abscess formation.

Once an abscess forms, surgical drainage is often necessary to resolve the infection. Medical management, including antibiotics, plays a crucial role in selected cases, but timely intervention is key.

Why Early Treatment is Crucial
SEEKING DENTAL CARE AT THE FIRST SIGN OF AN ISSUE IS ESSENTIAL. EARLY TREATMENT NOT ONLY PREVENTS THE PROGRESSION OF INFECTIONS BUT ALSO SAFEGUARDS YOUR OVERALL HEALTH. REGULAR DENTAL CHECK-UPS, PROMPT TREATMENT OF DENTAL ISSUES, AND MAINTAINING GOOD ORAL HYGIENE CAN PREVENT THE DEVELOPMENT OF SERIOUS CONDITIONS LIKE DENTAL SEPSIS. 

Your Health is in Your Hands
Don’t wait for a small issue to become a major health crisis. The story of Mike Williams is a powerful reminder of how quickly things can escalate. Protect your health by prioritizing your dental care.
Schedule your next dental appointment today, and take the first step toward safeguarding your overall well-being.

​Yours in Health,
[Jeff D. Velasquez, DDS]

This newsletter highlights the critical importance of addressing dental issues promptly to prevent serious health risks, using evidence from the NIH and a real-life example to drive home the message.




​

​Kayla loved wearing her braces so much so that she was a little sad when it was time to get them off.
​When your teenage children needs braces, Dr. Jeff Velasquez can help.
Please call us at 562-424-9473

It's common for teenagers wearing braces to wonder about the consequences of not getting them removed on time. While the consequences can vary depending on individual circumstances and the advice of their orthodontist/dentist,  here are some general points to consider:
Consequences of having braces on longer:

1. Potential tooth decay: Prolonged wear of braces can make it challenging to clean teeth properly, leading to a higher risk of tooth decay and gum disease if oral hygiene isn't maintained rigorously.
2. Root resorption: In some cases, the longer pressure from braces is applied to teeth, the higher the risk of root resorption, a condition where the tooth's root shortens due to the pressure, potentially leading to tooth instability.
3. Discomfort and inconvenience: Extended wear of braces can lead to ongoing discomfort and inconvenience for the wearer, affecting their daily activities and quality of life.
4. Impact on self-esteem: While braces are often seen as a temporary inconvenience with the promise of straighter teeth, prolonged wear can impact a teenager's self-esteem and confidence, especially if they were looking forward to having them removed.

Benefits of straight teeth:

1. Improved oral health: Straight teeth are easier to clean and maintain, reducing the risk of cavities, gum disease, and other oral health issues.
2. Better bite alignment: Properly aligned teeth contribute to a healthier bite, reducing the risk of jaw pain, headaches, and uneven wear on teeth.
3. Enhanced confidence: A straighter smile often leads to increased self-confidence and a more positive self-image, which can have far-reaching benefits in social, academic, and professional settings.
4. Improved speech: Misaligned teeth can sometimes affect speech patterns, and straightening them can lead to clearer speech and improved communication.
5. Long-term dental health: Addressing orthodontic issues early can prevent more significant dental problems later in life, potentially reducing the need for extensive dental work or corrective procedures down the road.

Ultimately, it's essential for teenagers wearing braces to follow their orthodontist's/dentist's advice closely and attend regular check-ups to ensure their treatment progresses as planned and to minimize any potential risks associated with prolonged wear.
Dr. Jeff Velasquez
​562-424-9473

Photo from mouthhealthy.org 

Smoker's Mouth: Smoking introduces harmful chemicals and toxins into the mouth, leading to various oral health issues such as stained teeth, bad breath, and a build-up of plaque and tartar. Nicotine constricts blood vessels, reducing blood flow to the gums, which can result in gum disease and tooth loss. Additionally, smoking weakens the immune system, making it harder for the body to fight off oral infections.
Development of Serious Dental Issues: Smoking increases the risk of more serious dental problems such as periodontitis (advanced gum disease), oral cancer, and tooth decay. The combination of reduced blood flow and compromised immune response creates an environment conducive to the growth of harmful bacteria, which can lead to irreversible damage to the gums, teeth, and surrounding tissues.
Impact on Total Health: Dental problems not only affect oral health but can also have far-reaching consequences for overall health. Poor oral health has been linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, respiratory infections, diabetes complications, and adverse pregnancy outcomes. Inflammation and infection in the mouth can contribute to systemic inflammation, exacerbating existing health conditions.

Dangers of Vaping, Hookah & Pipe Smoking: While often perceived as less harmful alternatives to traditional cigarettes, vaping, hookah, and pipe smoking still pose significant risks to oral and overall health. These practices expose the mouth to high levels of nicotine, chemicals, and carcinogens, increasing the likelihood of developing dental problems, respiratory issues, and addiction.

Benefits of Quitting: Quitting smoking is one of the best decisions you can make for your oral and overall health. Within hours of quitting, blood circulation improves, and the body begins to repair damaged tissues. Over time, the risk of developing dental problems decreases, and the chances of experiencing oral and systemic health benefits increase.
Steps in Quitting: Quitting smoking may seem daunting, but there are many resources and strategies available to help you succeed. Consider reaching out to your healthcare provider or a smoking cessation program for support and guidance. Identify your triggers and develop coping mechanisms to manage cravings. Surround yourself with a supportive network of friends and family who can encourage and motivate you along the way.

By understanding the impact of smoking on oral health and overall well-being, as well as the benefits of quitting, individuals can take proactive steps towards leading a healthier mouth and smoke-free life.
From your Dentist in Long Beach
Jeff Velasquez, DDS
​562-424-9473

​Dealing with dental anxiety is a challenge that varies from person to person, shaped by individual perceptions and past experiences with dentists. While some patients recall positive encounters, others harbor negative sentiments due to past unpleasant incidents. It's not uncommon to hear sentiments like "I hate the dentist!" or expressions of embarrassment such as "My mouth is a gold mine" or "I think I have a lot of cavities." In response, our team reassures them with phrases like "We've seen worse" or "You've come to the right place."
Regardless of your feelings or past experiences, dentists play a crucial role in our overall health. Maintaining a cavity-free mouth is essential, prompting our dentists to recommend a routine dental exam and cleaning twice a year. During this biannual checkup, your dentist assesses your teeth for cavities and examines your oral tissues for any potential issues. Interestingly, early stages of certain medical problems can manifest in the mouth, making dentists instrumental in identifying and addressing broader health concerns.
In fact, your dentist might be the first to suggest a visit to a gastroenterologist or medical doctor based on observations during a routine dental exam. Trust their advice, as early detection increases the likelihood of effective intervention. Overcoming dental anxiety is crucial, and there's no need to fear the dentist any longer.
Mouthhealthy.org offers three valuable tips to conquer dental anxiety and phobia. First, communicate openly with your dentist about your concerns so they can tailor their approach to make you feel more comfortable. Second, find ways to distract yourself during dental procedures, such as listening to music or imagining yourself in a favorite place. Consider using a squeeze ball or a spinner ring to keep your hands occupied. Lastly, employ mindfulness techniques, focusing on being present, taking deep breaths, and relaxing your muscles, all of which can help you overcome dental anxiety.
Take control of your dental experience, speak openly with your dentist, and explore these practical strategies to ensure a more relaxed and positive visit.

In our office, Dr. Jeff Velasquez offers laughing gas and / or oral conscious sedation to help patient relaxed during dental procedures. Also, Dr. Velasquez is known to his patients with his pain-free numbing technique. Call us at 562-424-9473 for more information and to set up an appointment.
​By VbA-V

​On Valentine's day, love is in the air. You might want your teeth whiten for a brighter smile on your date. 
A visit to your dentist is advisable especially when you haven't been to your teeth doctor for a while. We recommend a twice a year dental check up & cleaning.

On Valentine's day, according to mouthhealthy.org, three is a crowd - you, him/her and bad breath. You don't want the third party.
Some causes of bad breath is oral microflora or what we call bacteria, dry mouth, gum disease, diet, smoking and other medical conditions. To conquer bad breath, proper oral hygiene at home is necessary. Brushing 2-3x a day and flossing at least once a day in addition to your regular dental exams & cleanings is very important. 

Also on Valentine's day, we celebrate our relationships, our partners, spouses or loved ones with a kiss. Make sure your gums, teeth & surrounding tissues in the mouth are in good health. If not, this is what happens when
​we kiss someone on the lips, we exchange saliva and germs. Bad breath and cavities are contagious. We transfer our own bacteria to our partners when we kiss passionately.
Keep in mind that with our love ones, we can share a life, a kiss, a dentist, a house but DO NOT share a toothbrush.

To celebrate Valentines day with  a healthy KISS, visit your Dentist.
​ 
#Jeffvelasquezdds
#cosmeticDentist
#longbeachdentist
#dentistlongbeach

​"It seems to me that what we call BEAUTY in a face lies in the SMILE." - Leo Tolstoy
Benefits of a Smile.

1. Lowers Blood Pressure
2. Better Relationships
3. You'll Look Younger
4. Improves Mood
5. Reduces Stress
6. Boosts Immune System
7. Longer Life

Some people might have problems in smiling because of stained and dark colored, broken, chipped, crooked and/or missing teeth, loose & old dentures, chipped, leaking or broken fillings, crowns & bridges. Whatever the reasons there maybe in preventing you from smiling to the fullest, here at Jeff Velasquez, DDS, your Long Beach Dentist can help.  Check our reviews and visit our website JeffVelasquezDDS.com. You can find some helpful tips and better yet call us at 562-247-4683 and set up an appointment for consultation. There's a reason to smile, we are just phone call away. Dr Jeff Velasquez is one of the finest Dentist in Long Beach. He will give you the SMILE that you deserve. 

By vbav & drjeff

REPOST 04/03/2021
​WHAT TO DO WHEN YOU'RE GRINDING
  There are some other ways to train yourself in preventing clenching and grinding habits. One way is to deprogram your muscles by placing the tongue between your teeth and swallowing. Do this a few times during the day, especially if you think you're grinding & clenching more often. This will prevent activating the jaw muscles to clench. Long Beach dentist Jeff Velasquez offers Occlusal Guard or Splint  deprogramming device for night time use to prevent grinding. It is during sleep where most of the damage occurs. 
When you think you're grinding your teeth always remember: Lips Sealed, Teeth Apart. Your teeth should be touching only when your chewing. Lips close, slightly drop jaw, and maintain that feeling. The signs and symptoms of someone who is grinding and clenching are morning headaches, jaw muscle pain, worn down teeth, gum recession and abrasions on the neck of the teeth, so if you think you exhibit this signs consult your dentist.
 Jeff Velasquez, DDS 
(are you grinding & clenching?)