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Seven Tips for Effective Tooth Brushing | Huntington Beach Dentist

A sparkling smile not only enhances your appearance but also reflects good oral health. One of the simplest yet crucial habits to maintain that bright smile is proper tooth brushing. In this blog post, we’ll explore seven effective ways to brush your teeth, ensuring your dental hygiene is top-notch.

  • Start your oral care routine by selecting a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Soft bristles effectively clean teeth without causing damage to the enamel, while fluoride helps strengthen teeth and prevent decay.
  • Hold your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to your gums and use gentle, circular motions. Ensure you cover all surfaces of your teeth – front, back, and chewing surfaces. Don’t forget your tongue and the roof of your mouth to eliminate bacteria and freshen your breath.
  • Proper brushing requires time. Aim for a minimum of two minutes each session to ensure thorough cleaning. Consider using a timer or an electric toothbrush with a built-in timer to help you keep track.
  • While it might be tempting to brush vigorously, harsh brushing can lead to enamel erosion and gum recession. Apply gentle pressure and focus on being thorough rather than forceful to protect your oral health.
  • Brushing alone might not reach every nook and cranny between your teeth. Incorporate dental floss to remove plaque and food particles from these tight spaces. Follow up with an antimicrobial mouthwash to kill lingering bacteria and leave your mouth feeling fresh.
  • Toothbrushes wear out over time, and frayed bristles are less effective in cleaning your teeth. Replace your toothbrush or toothbrush head every three to four months or sooner if bristles appear worn.
  • Even with a meticulous oral care routine at home, regular visits to your dentist are crucial. Professional cleanings and check-ups can identify and address potential issues before they escalate.

Achieving and maintaining good oral health is within reach by incorporating these seven effective ways to brush your teeth into your daily routine. A beautiful smile starts with proper oral care, and by following these guidelines, you’ll be well on your way to a healthier, brighter smile. Remember, consistency is key, so make these habits a part of your daily life for lasting results.

If you would like to find out more contact Dr. Gamarnik at 714-842-5626 to schedule a consultation or visit www.hbadvanceddentalspecialists.com for additional information.

Dr. Rudy Gamarnik proudly serves Huntington Beach and all surrounding areas.

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How Sugar and Oral Bacteria Interact | Huntington Beach Dentist

The human mouth is a bustling ecosystem, home to a diverse community of microorganisms, including bacteria. While these microscopic residents play crucial roles in maintaining oral health, an intricate dance unfolds when sugar enters the scene. This blog post delves into the fascinating interaction between sugar and bacteria in the mouth, shedding light on the consequences of this sweet partnership.

As we indulge in sweet treats and sugary beverages, our taste buds revel in the delightful sweetness. However, the celebration doesn’t end there. Sugars act as a potent energy source for bacteria residing in the oral cavity. The most notorious culprits are Streptococcus mutans and Streptococcus sobrinus, bacteria that thrive on fermentable carbohydrates, breaking them down into acids.

The Acidic Tango:

When bacteria feast on sugars, they produce acids as metabolic byproducts. This sets the stage for an acidic tango that can have detrimental effects on oral health. The acids erode tooth enamel, the protective outer layer of the teeth, leading to the formation of cavities and dental decay. The more frequent the sugar consumption, the more intense this corrosive dance becomes.

Biofilm Formation:

Bacteria aren’t lone performers in this oral drama; they team up to create biofilms. These sticky, slimy layers of bacteria and sugars adhere to tooth surfaces, forming a breeding ground for further microbial activity. This biofilm, commonly known as plaque, becomes a hotbed for bacterial proliferation, contributing to the development of oral diseases.

Sweet Temptations and Oral Hygiene:

While the interaction between sugar and bacteria may seem like an inevitable consequence of enjoying sweets, maintaining good oral hygiene can tip the balance in your favor. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups help remove plaque and prevent the escalation of bacterial activity, keeping your mouth in harmony.

The Role of Saliva:

Saliva acts as a natural defender against the sugar-bacteria duet. It contains minerals that neutralize acids and enzymes that aid in the remineralization of enamel. Chewing sugar-free gum can stimulate saliva production, providing a helping hand in mitigating the effects of sugar on oral health.

The interaction between sugar and bacteria in the mouth is a complex dance with potential consequences for oral health. While sugar undoubtedly fuels bacterial activity, practicing good oral hygiene and mindful sugar consumption can help maintain a healthier balance. So, the next time you reach for that sweet indulgence, remember the intricate symphony playing out in your mouth and take steps to keep the harmony intact.

If you would like to find out more contact Dr. Gamarnik at 714-842-5626 to schedule a consultation or visit www.hbadvanceddentalspecialists.com for additional information.

Dr. Rudy Gamarnik proudly serves Huntington Beach and all surrounding areas.

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Understanding Tooth Layers and Functions | Huntington Beach Dentist

Our teeth are essential tools for eating, speaking, and maintaining a healthy smile. Understanding the anatomy of a tooth can help us appreciate the complexity of these remarkable structures and the importance of proper dental care.

A tooth can be divided into three main layers, each with its unique structure and function: the enamel, dentin, and pulp.

  • Enamel:
  • Enamel is the outermost layer of a tooth, and it’s the hardest and most mineralized tissue in the human body. It is primarily composed of hydroxyapatite, a crystalline structure made of calcium and phosphate, which gives enamel its incredible strength. Enamel’s primary role is to protect the inner layers of the tooth from wear and tear, as well as from harmful bacteria. It is also responsible for the tooth’s white appearance.
  • Dentin:
  • Beneath the enamel lies dentin, a dense, yellowish tissue that makes up the majority of the tooth’s structure. Dentin is not as hard as enamel but is still quite durable. It contains microscopic tubules that connect to the tooth’s nerve center, transmitting sensory signals when exposed to temperature or pressure changes. Dentin acts as a cushion, protecting the innermost layer of the tooth.
  • Pulp:
  • The innermost layer of a tooth is the pulp, which contains the tooth’s nerve, blood vessels, and connective tissue. The pulp serves several essential functions, such as nourishing the tooth, transmitting sensory information (like pain or temperature sensitivity), and aiding in the formation of dentin during tooth development. When tooth decay or infection reaches the pulp, it can cause significant pain and often requires root canal treatment to remove the damaged tissue.

Tooth anatomy varies depending on its location and function in the mouth. Humans have four different types of teeth, each designed for specific tasks. Incisors are sharp and used for cutting, canines are pointed for tearing, premolars have flat surfaces for grinding, and molars have multiple cusps for efficient crushing and grinding of food.

Proper dental care, including brushing, flossing, and regular check-ups with a dentist, is crucial to maintaining healthy teeth. Neglecting oral hygiene can lead to a range of dental problems, from cavities to gum disease, which can compromise the integrity of the tooth’s anatomy.

In summary, understanding the anatomy of a tooth can help us appreciate the importance of dental health. The enamel, dentin, and pulp work together to allow us to bite, chew, and maintain our beautiful smiles. By taking good care of our teeth and seeking professional dental advice when needed, we can ensure that this remarkable structure continues to serve us well throughout our lives.

If you would like to find out more contact Dr. Gamarnik at 714-842-5626 to schedule a consultation or visit www.hbadvanceddentalspecialists.com for additional information.

Dr. Rudy Gamarnik proudly serves Huntington Beach and all surrounding areas.

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How To Communicate Effectively With Your Dentist | Huntington Beach Dentist

Discussing your concerns with your dentist is paramount to making the most of your visits with them. You are responsible for the daily maintenance of your oral care, and while your dentist is there to prevent or treat major issues, they can’t know everything going on at home. It’s important to share anything that may be of concern for your ability to either maintain a proper routine and any complications you may be experiencing.

Warning Signs:

It’s important to remember that your dentist is on your team; they are open to answering your questions with knowledge and experience. If you have any concerns about your teeth, gums, or jaw, or are experiencing any pain it is important to share that with your dentist. It’s easy to turn to the internet for answers to these concerns, but lifestyle habits among other things are factors your dentist can consider with you. If any of the following apply to you, it is important to discuss them with your dentist before they potentially get worse:

  • Bleeding gums
  • Sores in the mouth that do not heal
  • Sensitivity or pain
  • Clenching your jaws
  • Grinding your teeth
  • Problems with brushing or flossing

Health and Lifestyle Changes:

If you make changes to your lifestyle, such as reducing or increasing medications or the consumption of coffee or nicotine, it’s important to let your dentist know. These seemingly nominal changes can have a huge impact on your oral health over time. The acid in coffee may weaken your enamel over time, where as reducing consumption may allow it to remain in tact. The potential impact of nicotine from cigarettes or chewing tobacco on your oral health is another important thing to share so your dentist can look for signs of change.

If you would like to find out more contact Dr. Gamarnik at 714-842-5626 to schedule a consultation or visit www.hbadvanceddentalspecialists.com for additional information.

Dr. Rudy Gamarnik proudly serves Huntington Beach and all surrounding areas.

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Fluoride: Friend or Foe? | Huntington Beach Dentist

There is a lot to be said about the use and consumption of fluoride; it has historically split public opinion Proponents of fluoride tout its ability to aid in the fight against cavities and tooth decay. Opponents say fluoride is a harmful neurotoxin that has been pumped into our community’s water without express permission by the people.

While trace amounts of fluoride have been added to public water for decades, it has yet to cause widespread neurological issues. According to smiledentalcenterct.com, “research has shown that by adding fluoride to public water supplies, tooth decay-related conditions decline by 25 percent among adults and children.” The addition of fluoride is meant to be a public health benefit, rather than a source of controversy.

As with anything, there is such thing as too much fluoride; two dental visits a year and drinking community water, however, isn’t likely to cause harm. Too much fluoride can cause dental fluorosis that changes the color of tooth enamel and is likely to impact children ages eight and younger as their teeth grow in. As a result, it is not recommended to give children fluoride toothpaste- especially as they develop the motor skills to properly brush and not swallow the paste.

A dentist may dissuade a patient from using fluoride toothpaste if they experience an allergic reaction, or if the individual feels strongly about the amount of fluoride in their daily lives. Fluoride-free formulas offer the same cleaning power and are recommended over not using toothpaste; the difference is that on average, fluoride formulas reduce the number of cavities and occurrence of tooth decay one may experience over their lifetime.

In general, trace amounts of fluoride in drinking water work to improve the oral health of our communities and the use of fluoride toothpaste is safe for adults. The decision to use fluoride toothpaste lies with the individual, but he or she may need to take extra steps such as mouthwash and flossing to ensure they receive the cavity-fighting benefits normally provided by fluoride formulas.

If you would like to find out more about the use of fluoride in dentistry, contact Dr. Gamarnik at 714-842-5626 to schedule a consultation or visit www.hbadvanceddentalspecialists.com for additional information.

Dr. Rudy Gamarnik proudly serves Huntington Beach and all surrounding areas.

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What You Should Know About Oral Infections | Huntington Beach Dentist

Oral infections can occur as a result of not practicing consistent oral hygiene routines. If you aren’t brushing for two minutes a day, twice a day, and flossing, you may be at increased risk of developing an oral infection. Here are some of the most common oral infections that may result from poor oral hygiene.

Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease– Toddlers and school-aged children are the most susceptible to Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease. The virus Coxsackie A16 is spread by direct contact with saliva and mucus; children are particularly unconscious of their direct exposure to these fluids. Children may experience fever, sore throat, and the development of painful blisters on their body but should only last a few days.

Herpangina– Similar to Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease, Herpangina typically affects children and presents itself with fever symptoms and difficulty swallowing. Yet, unlike Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease, it forms blisters on the back of the mouth that once ruptured, become ulcers. Symptoms typically only last a few days.

Gingivitis– Simply put, Gingivitis is inflammation of the gums. It is the precursor to Periodontitis, the escalation of Gingivitis should it go untreated. Gingivitis is the result of plaque buildup that spreads from the gums to the ligaments that support the teeth.

Periodontal Disease– When left untreated, Gingivitis may spread below the gum line, affecting the supportive tissues and bone of our teeth. This progression is known as Periodontal Disease which deteriorates these support leading to the potential loss of teeth and may even spread to the lungs causing pneumonia.

Canker Sores– These are cuts that develop on the gums and other mouth tissues and are common in children and teens. Vigorous brushing, cheek bites, and sports injuries – as well as hormones and immune problems, may lead to canker sores.

Oral Herpes– According to centerforbeautifulsmiles.com, “50-80 percent of American adults” carry the Herpes Simlex Virus. This can lead to “blisters and ulcers on the gums and tongue, flu-like symptoms, or no symptoms at all.” While there are things individuals can do to keep the virus dormant, an outbreak may last ten days to two weeks.

If you would like to find out more about oral infections or understand how to better care of your oral health to avoid serious issues, contact Dr. Gamarnik at 714-842-5626 to schedule a consultation or visit www.hbadvanceddentalspecialists.com for additional information.

Dr. Rudy Gamarnik proudly serves Huntington Beach and all surrounding areas.

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Understanding Cavities and How They Happen | Huntington Beach Dentist

Cavities are something a majority of us can expect to encounter at least once in our lifetimes. It’s important to understand the behaviors that can increase the likelihood you will get a cavity, and the different ways dentists go about treating simple and serious decay. Here are some things we think you should know about cavities so you can stop them before you need to treat them.

How They Happen


Acidic Foods– Citric acid contained in lemons, limes, and oranges also pops up as an ingredient in processed foods. Citric acid and others weaken teeth and put enamel in danger of erosion which in turn creates crevices for bacteria to stick and become a cavity. It would be difficult to avoid citric acid, so the best thing you can do is consume water throughout the day and keep the intake of acidic foods to a minimum.

Sugar– While sugar doesn’t cause cavities, like citric acid, it contributes to the likelihood you may develop one. Sugar is a harmful bacteria’s favorite food, so the longer sugar lingers on your teeth, the more likely that bacteria will begin to eat it. This weakens your enamel and creates opportunities for that harmful bacteria to hang around and cause a cavity.

Believe it or not, children are not more prone to develop cavities than adults, but there are factors that may put children and elderly individuals at more risk for tooth decay. Children tend to crave and eat sugary foods while doing a poor job brushing their teeth. The elderly tend to take medication that reduces the amount of saliva they produce thus reducing the neutralization properties of saliva. Drinking water throughout the day and regular dental visits can help both children and their grandparents to reduce the chances harmful bacteria may cause a cavity.

Treatment Options

If you wake up to a toothache or notice black spots on a tooth, you may have a cavity. Cavities are a common occurrence and dentists have several means of treating them. Treatment options vary depending on how advanced tooth decay has become.

Simple Decay- Fluoride treatments and fillings are viable treatment options if the cavity is in its early stages. Your dentist will apply a solution to the decaying tooth to kill harmful bacteria and place a filling where the cavity was to seal the area to prevent further decay. This is a fairly simple and painless method for cavity removal, as well as the most common treatment option.

Serious Decay- If the cavity has progressed beyond the ability of fluoride treatment to remove the bacteria, crowns, root canals and tooth extraction are a dentist’s next line of defense. Crowns are custom coverings for decaying teeth; typically made from porcelain, they work to strengthen your affected tooth once the bacteria have been removed. If the decay reaches the inner tooth or pulp, your dentist will remove the pulp, medicate it to clear any infection, and add a filling. Tooth extraction is a last resort option when the decayed tooth is beyond restoration. Your dentist may recommend a bridge or implant for the gap.

If you would like to find out more about tooth decay, contact Dr. Gamarnik at 714-842-5626 to schedule a consultation or visit www.hbadvanceddentalspecialists.com for additional information.

Dr. Rudy Gamarnik proudly serves Huntington Beach and all surrounding areas.

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When You Have Bad Breath Without Eating | Huntington Beach Dentist

When it comes to celebrating the holidays, we all tend to loosen our belts a bit to indulge in all the foods we love during this time of year. And some of those foods can give us bad breath. The solution is simple – a quick stick of gum or a brushing can do the trick. But there are some reasons you may have bad breath that has nothing to do with potent foods. Let’s take a look at bad breath – how we get it, how we get rid of it and what happens when it is something more serious.

There are certain causes of bad breath: your diet, the condition of your teeth and how you take care of them. Bad breath is generally caused by bacteria in your mouth. Now, every mouth has bacteria, some of which are good, and some which aren’t. By removing the bacteria, you are reducing the possibility of halitosis (bad breath), which is why good dental hygiene is imperative. It is also critical to see your dentist and hygienist on a regular basis so they can take x-rays, measure your gum pockets and determine the extent of the bacteria in your mouth, as they remove the bacteria from above your gums. Occasionally, it is noted that bacteria may be able to get inside the gums, which cause gum infections gum disease and tooth loss.

Once it has been determined you have gum disease, it is recommended to have cleanings done every 3 months to maintain the health of the gums. Generally, the gum measurements are made to determine how well the gums are responding to treatment and cleaned, to ensure the continued improvement of the bacteria removal.

If you would like to find out more about bad breath, contact Dr. Gamarnik at 714-842-5626 to schedule a consultation or visit www.hbadvanceddentalspecialists.com for additional information.

Dr. Rudy Gamarnik proudly serves Huntington Beach and all surrounding areas.

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Do You Suffer from Ketosis Breath? | Huntington Beach Dentist

There are many diets out there to choose from; they come and go like the wind. One of these diets that has become quite popular these days is the keto diet, a diet based on low carb intake and eating large amounts of saturated fats, like butter, lard and oils.

And while it is a great way to lose weight, like anything, there are some risks. Harvard Health Publishing recommends that your saturated fat intake not exceed 7% of your daily calories. Eating so much more than that could increase your risk of:

  • Heart disease
  • Nutrient deficiency
  • Kidney issues
  • Constipation
  • Liver problems
  • Clouded thinking
  • And, of course, ketosis breath.

Ketosis breath is an overly sweet, fruity scent (not in a good way) that is the results of the way our bodies break down fats. While in ketosis, your body converts fat cells into three types of ketones. One of these ketones, called acetone, is essentially worthless for your body to create energy. Therefore, your body releases it through your urine, sweat, and breath.

So, now that you are aware of keto breath, how do you get rid of it? Because the scent is coming from your lungs, it isn’t something that can be fixed, but rather covered up. And just like any type of bad breath, there are ways to do this. Chewing sugar-free gum will activate saliva production, which will keep your mouth free of bacteria. Adding more complex carbohydrates, like leafy greens, will also help decrease the scent. Drinking water is also a great way to keep your mouth hydrated. Adding breath freshening herbs like mint, cloves and cinnamon can help improve your breath. And lastly, good dental hygiene is the best way to stave off keto breath.

If you would like to find out more about ketosis breath, contact Dr. Gamarnik at 714-842-5626 to schedule a consultation or visit www.hbadvanceddentalspecialists.com for additional information.

Dr. Rudy Gamarnik proudly serves Huntington Beach and all surrounding areas.

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Mythbusters: LANAP Procedure Edition | Huntington Beach Dentist

When you develop gum disease, there are a few ways to treat the issue. In the past, there was traditional gum surgery. Not only is it painful, but the recovery time is also extensive. Nowadays, there is a new option that not only removes the use of a scalpel, but also has a quick recovery period. This is the LANAP procedure.

Because it is a new procedure, it comes with lots of myths behind it. Today we disprove the more common ones:

Myth #1: Any dentist can do it.

Only trained, qualified periodontists and dentists can use LANAP lasers on patients. They undergo a year-long, intensive training process that happens at the Institute for Advanced Laser Dentistry.

Myth #2: LANAP is expensive.

LANAP costs roughly the same as traditional gum surgery. But if you consider recovery time, LANAP may make for a more financially reasonable option.

Myth #3: Insurance doesn’t cover LANAP procedures.

Most insurance carriers will cover LANAP. Contact your insurance provider and discuss your coverage.

Myth #4: Any laser can be used for LANAP.

No, LANAP uses a very specific laser, the PerioLase MVP-7, to treat gum disease. This laser only targets the diseased gums, destroying the bad bacteria while preserving healthy tissue.

Myth #5: LANAP is dangerous.

Keep in mind that there are inherent risks in any medical procedure Your healthcare professional will discuss those with you before beginning the surgery so that you’re fully informed. However, LANAP uses an FDA-approved, safe laser that only interacts with harmful bacteria. There’s no risk of radiation or interaction with other medications as well. You may have to take x-rays before the procedure, but the risk is minimal there as well.