We aim to educate our patients and recognize their needs so they can feel satisfied and comfortable with our dental care in Ventura, California. For that reason, we have provided answers for some common concerns or FAQs about various dental topics. If you would like to learn more or have any questions, we invite you to call Healthy Living Dental.

How do I prevent cavities?
The most beneficial aspect of prevention is in your daily oral hygiene habits. These include proper flossing, brushing, and of course, regular dental exams and cleanings. With these behaviors, you can feel confident in your oral healthcare. We invite you to also learn more about dental sealants and fluoride treatments as a far-reaching service at Healthy Living Dental.

Does bleaching make my teeth more sensitive?
Yes, teeth may feel more sensitive to temperatures and certain foods following your in-office bleaching. You can, however, reduce this sensitivity by using Sensodyne the week prior to and following your appointment. We can also provide fluoride treatments after you have received whitening.

Should I worry if my teeth bleed during blushing or flowing?
Although it is common to experience slightly bleeding gums, we want our patients to understand that healthy tissue doesn’t bleed. You can recognize this as a sign of early gingivitis and if left untreated, can lead to progressive periodontal disease. We recommend you come in for a cleaning and soft tissue exam soon if you are experiencing this symptom.

What if I am nervous to see a dentist?
Our dentist, Dr. Ben Yoong is very caring and accommodating to those with anxieties, phobias, and even simple concerns. You’re in control of your oral care, we never recommend an unnecessary treatment, and we are always respectful of your needs. If you are interested, we invite you to call and ask about sedation dentistry.

What is bruxism and how can it be treated?
Grinding and clenching unknowingly during your sleep is known as a condition called bruxism. The erosion and damage that can be caused by this is extensive if left untreated. If you notice a sore or popping jaw, facial pain, headaches, damage to your teeth, you likely have nightly bruxism. We may recommend a night guard, oral appliance or other treatment depending on the severity of your condition.

Why are baby teeth important?
The health of your child’s baby teeth often ensures the formation of healthy adult teeth and also allow for necessary and proper alignment of their dentition, jawbone, and other oral tissues.

If I need a root canal, why not pull the tooth instead?
We understand that many individuals do not want to have a root canal or think they cannot afford it, but extracting a tooth that can be restored can cause more problems than it solves. By saving a tooth, we can maintain space, keep other teeth from shifting, and eliminate the need and cost of further restorations.