Through the ages, humans have struggled to find solutions to the tooth loss problem. To come to a place where viable treatment options even existed took hundreds of years of trial and error. In the last 100 years, we’ve made significant strides forward on this front. Not only do we have the awareness that daily care can help us keep natural teeth for life, but we also have treatments that reinstate natural structure in the unfortunate event that teeth fail or suffer injury. Dental implants are a prime example.

Historically, when tooth replacement has been necessary, it is the crown of the tooth that has been the center of attention. The shortcomings of such an approach have become glaringly obvious. Just watch a single episode of America’s Funniest Home Videos, and you’re likely to see a denture mishap caught on film. We may giggle at these videos, but none of us wants to experience such an embarrassing moment. And we shouldn’t have to; we don’t have to when we replace the missing structure with dental implants. Here’s why . . .

• Dental implants can last forever. Permanence is what we want when we’re dealing with our teeth, right? To achieve this, tooth replacement must also involve root replacement. This is what dental implants do. The introduction of titanium posts into the jaw provokes bone regeneration that solidifies the implants into place. As long as gum health remains stable, there is no reason to expect implants to lose this stability.
• Stability begets function. Our natural teeth are functional, able to break apart food because they are stable. We can speak comfortably because our teeth do not move around when we open and close our mouth. The main reason why traditional dentures are deficient is that they are not anchored, they only adhere to the arch by suction. With just a few implants, an entire arch of artificial teeth can feel very secure and natural.
• Reinstating natural structure creates convenience. When a dental implant secures a dental crown or small bridge, oral hygiene does not need to change to support long-term health. Dentures secured to implants may need to be removed for periodic cleanings but are, for the most part, very easy to maintain.

There is a reason why patients fly in from all over the world to obtain dental care from Dr. David Frey. Discover the value of personal, professional dentistry by scheduling your visit to our Beverly Hills office.

When teeth are crooked or overlapping, our first inclination may be to believe that orthodontic treatment is necessary. Sometimes, this is true. There are degrees of misalignment that need to be fully and physically corrected by moving teeth into a better position. In some cases, however, we may be able to correct the appearance of crooked teeth using porcelain veneers.

Cosmetic veneer treatment for crooked teeth can achieve quite a bit for your smile, and even your oral health . . .

Tooth Shape

One of the aspects of veneer treatment that is so special is that it takes into account the overall shape and size of the teeth in question. To correct an overlap or misalignment, including turning, it may be necessary to cover more than one tooth. This is because we want each tooth to have a nice overall size, width, and shape at the end of the cosmetic process.

Vibrancy

Just because veneers may originally be intended for the correction of some degree of misalignment doesn’t mean we have to color match to the existing shade of enamel. Many patients undergo teeth whitening treatment before the fabrication of porcelain veneers so natural enamel and veneers all shine as bright as their inner personality. Because it is unlikely that porcelain will dull over time, veneers act as the new baseline shade for future maintenance.

Facial Symmetry

Addressing cosmetic flaws in the smile does a lot for the face as a whole. This is because more teeth may show in the smile when teeth no longer appear crowded. When each tooth is properly spaced, sized, and shaped, the proportion of teeth to gums to lips all changes for the better.

Multiple Improvements In One

It is easy to see why porcelain veneers are the go-to treatment for individuals who want the very best for their smile. While using veneers to hide misalignment, much more may be gained. Small spots or stains, chips, and odd shape are just a few of the imperfections that can be mitigated with veneers.

Is a Smile Makeover on your to-do list for the coming year? From our main office in Beverly Hills, we serve patients from the greater Los Angeles and Orange County areas. Schedule your visit at 310-276-4537.

Many people express an interest in porcelain veneers as a treatment to enhance the attractiveness of teeth. Veneers made from high-quality dental porcelain are only about as thick as a contact lens, making this cosmetic restoration ideal for some improvements. Common uses for porcelain veneers include closing gaps and disguising stains, chips, and other flaws. Ultimately, what a person has to gain from veneer treatment are a gorgeous smile and optimal confidence.

Because veneer treatment is an investment into your smile, there is a good reason to want to maximize your results. This means prolonging the life of your veneers with appropriate care. The following tips are intended to help you enjoy veneers for up to 15 years.

Maintaining Your Veneers

1. Take great care of your mouth. Good hygiene is necessary for veneers because the brushing and flossing that you do prevents plaque buildup around the margins of these jackets. If flossing is not a consistent habit, consider using a Waterpik for convenience and efficiency. Consistent flossing also protects veneers by inhibiting the development of gum disease, which could cause gums to recede away from veneers.
2. Always use proper instruments for oral care. Be careful not to use abrasive toothpaste or a hard-bristled toothbrush on veneers, as this can scratch the porcelain and invite bacterial buildup. We are happy to recommend an appropriate toothpaste for daily use.
3. Talk with your dentist about a mouthguard. Mouthguards protect veneers and natural teeth during sporting activities. A mouthguard is also beneficial for individuals who clench or grind their teeth.
4. Do no smoke. Smoking significantly increases the risk of gum disease, which can mean recession away from veneers and natural teeth. Smoking can also cause the ridges of veneers, where adhesive is situated, to discolor.
5. See your dentist regularly. Dental visits are important for overall oral health and also for the care of veneers. The integrity of veneers is assessed during routine checkups, and cleanings complement the oral care routine kept at home.

Porcelain veneers provide the necessary cosmetic enhancement to bring out the best in your smile. Learn more about this treatment and how to maintain veneers when you visit our Beverly Hills office. Call us today at 310.276.4537.

Smoking, whether it be a pipe, cigars, cigarettes, or even marijuana, can have some serious consequences to general health. Most people are well aware of what those are: heart disease, lung cancer, and more. There is no need for us to go there. What we would like to discuss is the importance of a consistent, efficient oral care program for individuals who smoke. Even if you are in the process of quitting or have already quit, the fact is that your mouth could still need a little extra TLC.

Some of the ways you may provide your smile with additional attention include:

Use Excellent Technique

The way in which you brush your teeth will correlate to how clean and healthy your mouth is. We suggest:

• Investing in a good electric toothbrush, one with soft bristles and a convenient handle that allows you to reach all areas of the mouth, even harder-to-reach places at the very back.
• Spend an appropriate amount of time brushing every morning and night. This is not a task to rush through. Two full minutes is needed to adequately disrupt the debris that may be adhering to tooth surfaces. Develop strategies, if necessary, such as playing a two-minute song, to help you stay on the brushing task for the appropriate duration.
• Floss daily. A way to make sure this happens is to purchase a Waterpik or other water irrigator. If you currently smoke, this method of flossing may be an adjunct rather than an alternative. You may floss with string, and then end your oral care routine with water irrigation that includes a few drops of oral antibacterial rinse in the water. Because a small amount of water from the Waterpik reaches beneath the gum line, the antibacterial solution works to inhibit inflammation where it is most likely to occur.
• Lastly, rinse with antibacterial mouthwash to freshen breath and inhibit bacterial activity.

Get Support For A Great Smile

Dr. Frey provides friendly dental care in our Beverly Hills and London offices where patients can obtain general and cosmetic dentistry services tailored to their needs. From teeth whitening to comprehensive dental checkups and cleanings, we support our patients with efficient care. Call us today at 310.276.4537.

Bright white teeth are more than just beautiful. In today’s society, we read into a person’s appearance, maybe much more than we should. According to research, a radiant smile portrays everything from social status to wealth status. Right down to character traits, the smile has the power to create our image. From this perspective, we see the immense value of a shining smile, and of effective cosmetic dentistry.

Teeth Whitening Beverly Hills

Dr. Frey serves patients from our local Beverly Hills neighborhood, and from all over the world. There is a reason for this: our patients know that competency makes an enormous difference in treatment outcomes. Even for the correction of something so common as tooth discoloration, competency is necessary. Here’s what happens when you choose to forego the DIY method of teeth whitening and put your smile in your dentist’s hands:

• The right treatment is obtained. When we look at discolored teeth, it is easy to jump to the conclusion that teeth-whitening is the answer. This isn’t always true, though. Some stains reside inside of the tooth. Tetracycline stains are a prime example. When discoloration does not sit in the pores of enamel, there is less of a chance that bleach will eliminate them. In such an instance, the most appropriate approach may be to disguise discoloration with porcelain veneers.
• The right process is obtained. Not every person wants or needs the same treatment. When Zendaya visited us for a brighter smile, she chose to maximize her results, and her time, with in-office Zoom! whitening. The delivery method is streamlined and comfortable and offers immediate results that patients love. Some patients prefer to go at their discoloration at home, but with a professional-grade whitening solution that is formulated for fast-action.

When you choose to put your desire for a brighter smile into your dentist’s hands, you can feel more comfortable and more satisfied with the outcome of treatment. We would be happy to discuss your options for teeth whitening in a private consultation in our Beverly Hills office. Call 310-276-4537 to schedule your visit.

Tooth pain of any degree can be downright frightful. Even mild sensitivity can evoke a few unsettling feelings. At the same time, though, we are often reassured about tooth sensitivity in commercials and ads that tell us we can feel more comfortable as we sip our coffee or iced tea if we use a certain toothpaste for sensitive teeth. This kind of marketing presents sensitivity as a primary condition. This isn’t always accurate. In many cases, in fact, sensitivity is a symptom of a potentially larger concern.

The Symptom Of Sensitivity

It is important to consider what could be behind tooth sensitivity. Otherwise, the opportunity to avoid extensive damage – and pain – could be missed. Sensitivity could signal:

• When a small area of a tooth is softened by acidity, this spot will eventually become a hole. Even the onset of a cavity can incite heightened responsiveness from the nerves of that tooth. Therefore, the sensitivity that occurs “out of the blue” should be evaluated. A professional cleaning and conservative preventive care, such as dental sealants or topical fluoride, may resolve the issue before it reaches the next stage of decay.
• Historically, the wearing down of enamel due to acidity has been explained as tooth decay. Erosion is different. This widespread deterioration of enamel is no different than the erosion we see on a weather-beaten rock face. It occurs as a result of acidic foods and beverages that leave residue on teeth. The decrease of thickness in enamel reduces the buffer between stimulus and nerves inside the tooth. Once enamel is gone, it does not grow back. To minimize sensitivity, and strengthen eroded teeth, porcelain veneers may be recommended.
• Receding gums. The gums are not typically associated with the teeth outside of the important detail that gum tissue holds teeth in place. Beyond this vital function, gums also provide protection to the sensitive root segment of each tooth. When gums pull away from the base of a tooth, that root is more vulnerable to temperature changes and other stimuli. To improve comfort, a periodontal cleaning may be needed. Depending on the degree of recession, more advanced gum therapy may be recommended.

We can help you put sensitivity to rest. Call our Beverly Hills office at 310-276-4537.

Sports are popular among men and women of all ages, not just youth athletes. Now that we are entering a new school season, we expect to see a surge in dental emergencies related to oral injuries on the field, court, or other sports venue. The likelihood of any sports-related injury does not inhibit most people’s desire to play. What is important to know is that this likelihood is somewhat within each player’s control.

Protective gear is meant to reduce the risk of sports-related injuries. The question to ask is whether or not the equipment provided is adequate for this goal. Often, commercial mouthguards simply don’t live up to the best standards. You want to know this because . . .

• The highest percentage of teen dental injuries occur during sporting activities.
• Each year, approximately 5 million teeth are injured or knocked out.
• More than 600,000 of the emergency room visits that take place each year involve an oral injury or broken teeth.
• It is estimated that almost 40% of dental injuries are sports-related.
• There are 3 times more dental and facial injuries attributed to sports than are to auto accidents.
• It has been estimated that almost half of all young people will experience a dental injury before college.

These are good enough reasons to consider wearing a custom-fit mouthguard. But there’s more. Statistics also suggest that:

• Mouthguards prevent an estimated 200,000 facial and tooth injuries each year.
• Injuries to the top front teeth are significantly decreased when a custom mouthguard is worn.
• The risk of tooth injury is 60-times LESS when a mouthguard is worn.

The key to injury prevention is consistency in wearing protective gear. In many cases, athletes report forgetting to insert mouthguards, or choosing not to wear them. Why would they do this? Often, it is because the oral appliance is bulky and uncomfortable. Athletes need an oxygen uptake for performance and safety. If a mouthguard prevents heavy breathing, it is not going to be worn. We see this time and time again, even in professional athletes at a high risk for injury.

Seeing the need for a custom-fit product at an affordable price point, Dr. Frey developed The ZONE™ Mouthguard, which can be made right on the field! Learn more about this innovative development at 310-276-4537, or pick up yours at a local Dick’s Sporting Goods.

A large part of our practice is the planning and performance of cosmetic dental treatments. We understand the benefits of beauty to compliment healthy teeth and gums, and our team places a great deal of importance on understanding what it is our patients wish to accomplish. When the thing standing between you and a gorgeous smile is your gums, there is hope. Laser gum contouring is a precision treatment that achieves excellent results.

The Gummy Smile

This term, “gummy smile,” may sound somewhat cute. Having consulted with numerous patients about this concern, we can assure you we know there is nothing cute about having your appearance downgrades by the overt presence of gum tissue. The gummy smile makes teeth look too small for the lips and face. This creates an illusion of youth, but not in the way we tend to like. Many of the patients whom we have treated for gummy smiles report a newfound desire to smile; something they never had due to self-consciousness related to their teeth.

Laser Gum Contouring To The Rescue

Gum contouring is not a new method of creating symmetry in the smile. Historically, this procedure involved surgical shaping of the soft tissue around teeth using a scalpel. The development of soft tissue lasers has significantly improved the process.

• Less bleeding during and after surgery. Laser devices emit heat that cauterizes or closes, blood vessels while “cutting” soft tissue. This sealing of vessels prevents unnecessary bleeding during gum reshaping, and also keeps post-surgical swelling and bleeding to a minimum.
• Lower infection risk. No surgical tools are used to reshape the gums, which naturally lowers the risk of infection.
• Faster recovery. Patients recover more quickly from laser-assisted surgeries due to the conservative nature of cutting.
• Greater comfort. In addition to being a faster process, recovery after laser gum surgery is also more comfortable due to the effects of heat on nerve endings and blood vessels.

We are proud to serve patients from Beverly Hills and the surrounding areas of Los Angeles, as well as patients who fly-in to receive the standard of care they deserve. Gum contouring is one of many ways that we enhance the natural beauty of the smile. For more information on this and other cosmetic and restorative treatments, call us today.

Oral care is integral to an attractive smile, to oral health, and to general wellness. Most adults realize this and invest time each day in the management of their teeth and gums. By this time in your life, you have been brushing for so many years that the act is now second-nature. This alone can lead to mishaps that you later regret. Here, we look at a few common mistakes and what you can do about them.

1. Using the wrong toothbrush. Honestly, we don’t even know why hard-bristled toothbrushes are made anymore. They are only good for cleaning the grout between kitchen and bath tiles! Tooth enamel is much more sensitive than it looks. Also, teeth are surrounded by delicate gum tissue. Do yourself a favor; get a soft-bristled toothbrush from now on. Consider an electric toothbrush or sonic toothbrush if you need that fresh, clean feeling.
2. Using wrong technique. Teeth are not cleaned by a straight horizontal hold on the toothbrush, nor by aggressive pressure and scrubbing. Lean the toothbrush bristles to a 45-degree angle to gently reach tooth surfaces. Tongue-scraping is also part of the optimal technique.
3. More is not better. We are encouraged to brush every morning and every night, and even after the mid-day meal if we can. More brushing than this could be a mistake that leads to excessive wear of enamel. Erosion like this can lead to persistent discoloration as underlying dentin becomes visible.
4. Taking it too far. Not brushing; your toothbrush. Time goes by so quickly that it’s easy to forget to replace toothbrushes every 3 to 4 months. The longer a toothbrush is used, though, the less effective it is. Don’t wait for bristles to start falling out. Put toothbrush replacement on your calendar, if you must.
5. Sub-par cleanliness. One of the best things you can do for your mouth is taken good care of your toothbrush. This means airing it out. Many people have become somewhat apprehensive about leaving toothbrushes on the bathroom counter after certain reports have suggested that horrifying bacteria may find its way to those bristles. Yuck! Stowing a toothbrush away into a case, though, is even worse. A toothbrush needs air flow to dry out after each use. This can be obtained in a drawer, where germs from other parts of the bathroom cannot reach.

We are in the business of supporting healthy, attractive smiles. If you would like to visit our Beverly Hills cosmetic and general dentistry office, call us today.

Tooth loss is often quite minor, affecting one or two teeth here and there. Some patients have the more severe issue of full-arch tooth loss. In such instances, a disease has usually led to a need for extraction. Once the disease has been appropriately treated, the secondary concern is how teeth will be replaced. Today, most patients are good candidates for dental implant treatment to restore full functionality to the smile.

Full arch tooth replacement describes the use of a denture to replace natural teeth across an entire upper or lower arch. Not just dentures, though, a denture that is supported by several dental implants. The development of extensive dental implant procedures has paved the way for more patients to regain the comfort and confidence they had with natural, root-stabilized teeth. The structural soundness of the implant supported fixture means far less, if any, difficulty with eating, speaking, and self-confidence.

Why Full Arch Replacement Makes Sense

Losing a full arch of teeth is a rather traumatic event. Extractions are performed with precision to minimize disruption of soft tissues. That is not the issue. The issue is the emotional and functional toll that occurs when teeth are not present. To be honest, dentures are a poor substitute for fully stabilized teeth. With an implant-supported fixture, our patients can enjoy benefits that include:

• Minimally invasive restorative procedure.
• In many cases, same-day seating of temporary teeth.
• Prevention of muscle deterioration in the lower face/jaw.
• Prevention of bone loss due to ongoing stimulation via implant posts.
• Permanent stability for artificial teeth.

Same-day tooth replacement is often possible, allowing patients to resume normal activities more quickly and easily after the insertion of dental implants. Even temporaries are made to closely resemble the appearance of natural tooth enamel. No one can tell the difference but your dentist.

We want to give our patients something to smile about. Our friendly service is backed by years of training and experience, and a strong commitment to long-term results from dental implant treatment. If you are ready to restore the ultimate in function and aesthetics to your smile, schedule a consultation in our Beverly Hills office.

More people are becoming familiar with the term “TMJ disorder.” However, recognizing that this is an oral condition is just the tip of the iceberg. Many people are affected by some degree of dysfunction in the jaw, and yet they do not recognize the warning signs of distress. Would you know if your temporomandibular joints, and the structures that surround them, stopped working efficiently? Let’s find out!

What Is TMJ Disorder?

TMJ disorder describes a malfunction in the oral structure. At the back of the jaw, there are two joints, one on each side. These joints, the TMJs, enable the lower mandible to move from side to side and up and down. It isn’t only the joints that are involved in these movements; a matrix of ligaments, nerves, and muscles are also set into motion when we want to chew or speak. This network is relatively complex, making it susceptible to disruption. That disruption could be clenching or grinding the teeth. It could be a bad bite. Whatever it is, it may cause more than a few unpleasant symptoms.

Could You Have TMJ Disorder?

The symptoms that are most often attributed to TMJ disorder are popping and clicking when the mouth is opened and closed. A “noisy jaw” is only one indicator of an underlying problem, and it may not be the first to become obvious. Other symptoms include:

• Jaw stiffness, sometimes to the point of locking in one position (lockjaw).
• Jaw soreness or tenderness to the touch.
• Facial swelling around the joints near the ears.
• Ringing in the ears or ear pain without infection.
• Chronic head pain, including migraines.
• Tooth pain or sensitivity.

Treating TMJ Disorder

Some instances of TMJ disorder may resolve on their own. This is usually when pain and stiffness are related to overuse or bruxism. A thorough exam is necessary to determine the extent of dysfunction and how to treat it. Dr. Frey conducts a thorough analysis of TMJ function using the principles of neuromuscular dentistry. These principles also guide a course of treatment that is tailored to the individual.

Learn more about TMJ disorder and how comfort can be restored with gentle, effective treatment. Call our Beverly Hills office at 310-276-4537.

As a well-known cosmetic dentist in Beverly Hills, Dr. Frey is familiar with the innumerable benefits of bringing more beauty out in the smile. He is also aware of the fact that, no matter how gorgeous and bright a person’s teeth are, they won’t feel much like smiling or speaking if they struggle with bad breath. Chronic bad breath, referred to as halitosis, is a big deal. Why else would we see such a wide variety of products designed to freshen up? Here, we dive into this problem to find a ray of hope.

In many instances of halitosis, oral hygiene is the underlying issue. If you worry that your breath is becoming frighteningly close to noxious, first look at your daily habits. When you brush, do so with specific intent. Keep it up for two full minutes, and pay close attention to reach every part of the mouth. If you clean your tongue with your toothbrush, switch to a specific tongue-cleaning instrument. Finally, floss. Every day. Use a flavored floss for a minty-fresh feeling. If improved oral hygiene habits do not resolve the issue within a week or two, contact us for a consultation. Another problem may be lurking.

Dentures

People who wear dentures are more susceptible to halitosis because bacteria can accumulate on the underside of fixtures, as well as on visible surfaces. Bad breath may also develop as a result of a poor fit. We can evaluate dentures and how they fit against the gums to determine how to manage fresh breath.

Infection

Everything from sores to gum disease to a cavity can cause bad breath. This is because each of these problems is usually associated with plaque. Now, plaque itself is odorless and invisible. However, the bacteria that reside in plaque (and tartar) can cause all kinds of problems. In addition to leaving acidic waste in the mouth to stink the place up, these microorganisms degrade the gums and the enamel that protects teeth. Identifying and treating infection is a great way to ease halitosis while also preserving long-term oral health.

Dry Mouth

Saliva flow is crucial to plaque-prevention, digestion, and bacteria-control. Without sufficient moisture in the mouth, bad breath can quickly become a problem. In some cases, management is as simple as sipping water throughout the day to prevent dehydration. However, dry mouth may also be related to a health condition such as diabetes. A thorough consultation and examination are necessary to plan the most appropriate treatment for dry mouth.

We’re here to help you love your smile!

Men and women in the Los Angeles and Orange County areas trust cosmetic dentistry professional Dr. David Frey to help them meet their goals that center on a healthy, attractive smile. Cosmetic dentistry is an exciting field in which the sole purpose is to bring out a person’s natural beauty using meticulous techniques and lifelike materials.

Innovation in cosmetic dentistry has made it possible for dentists to mimic the appearance and the structural integrity of natural teeth using highly durable materials. However, the magic of cosmetic dentistry does not lie only in materials; there is an extensive amount of training that a cosmetic dentist completes making the best use of these materials. Truly, a smile makeover of any degree is a work of artistry and skill.

Procedures For Better Smiles

Cosmetic dentistry is a rather complex practice because every tooth is different. Also, dentists are not dealing only with teeth, but also the jaw, bone structure, facial symmetry, and patient preference. The objective of each case is unique, which is why there is such a wide variety of cosmetic dental treatments available today.

• Teeth whitening goes above and beyond the polishing that one gets from their whitening toothpaste. Patients of our Beverly Hills office may elect to have us whiten their teeth, or to obtain their desired result through professional teeth whitening with a home kit.
• Porcelain veneers. What can’t be done with porcelain veneers? Very little, it would seem. The customized canvas of dental porcelain may be placed to cover a chip, gap, or much more.
• Dental bonding is also a veneer process that may be appropriate for inconsequential repairs, such as a small stain or chip. A cosmetic dentist performs bonding with a clear objective of reinstating the full natural appeal of the tooth and the smile as a whole.
• Lumineers are minimal-prep porcelain veneers that take only two visits to complete a smile makeover. The ultra-thin nature of Lumineers is appealing to individuals who would prefer to preserve tooth enamel.

Not Your Mother’s Dentistry

The way that dental care is conducted today is a far cry from what our parents received. Whether you have a tooth or teeth that need repair or replacement, or your primary objective is to freshen up your smile, you can expect personal, friendly care to be developed around your expectations.

To discuss cosmetic dentistry treatments, call our Beverly Hills office at 310-276-4537

It has been said the sleep apnea is one of the most common sleep disorders to affect Americans of all ages. Of the different varieties of this condition, it is obstructive sleep apnea that occurs most frequently. Obstructive sleep apnea is the sleep disorder in which the airway becomes blocked, ultimately interrupting sleep. Because the consequences of the process of breathing-blockage-stimulation can be severe, it is important that people who suspect they or a loved one may have sleep apnea receive appropriate care.

Adverse effects of sleep apnea include:

• Increased risk for accidents
• Depression
• Heightened ADHD
• Diabetes
• Irregular heartbeat, heart attack, and heart failure
• High blood pressure

Children who suffer from sleep apnea are more prone to accidents, as well. Additionally, research suggests that behavior problems, poor academic performance, and bed-wetting are potential side effects of adolescent sleep apnea.

When To Talk To Your Doctor

A dental examination and consultation are not likely to confirm the existence of sleep apnea. An accurate diagnosis stems from a formal sleep study ordered by your physician of record. The following symptoms may alert you that a consultation is needed:

• Disruptive snoring.
• Pauses in snoring sounds.
• Gasping or choking after this silence.
• Excessive daytime fatigue.
• Sore or dry throat upon waking.
• Headache pain upon waking, or chronic migraines.
• Restless sleep.

What Your Dentist Can Do

Many people believe that they must obtain medical treatment for obstructive sleep apnea. This can lead to an ongoing struggle, as the primary therapy, CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure), may cause unpleasant side effects of its own. There is another option, oral airway appliance therapy.

Oral appliances have come a long way in recent years, as device manufacturers have discovered how to refine the profile of oral fixtures. Today, oral appliance therapy is used by thousands of patients who wish to restore sleep without the need for a bedside unit and nasal mask. The objective of this treatment protocol is to position the jaw in such a manner that the airway remains comfortably open.

Obstructive sleep apnea steals a lot more than a good night’s sleep. Learn how your Beverly Hills dentist Dr. David Frey can help you breathe easier. Call 310-276-4537.

There is never really a bad time to feel good about seeing the dentist. Unfortunately, statistics continually demonstrate how difficult it is for a large majority of people to see their dentist as routinely as they should. In some instances, the citing issue is the financial constraint. In many cases, though, what keeps people from seeing the dentist is fear and anxiety. When you aren’t sure how you feel about seeing the dentist, choosing a dental office can be a fete in itself. We’d like to help you determine if our Beverly Hills office could be a good fit for you by differentiating between good and great.

Dental Care

There are several options for good dentists in the Los Angeles area. A good dentist will have the necessary skill to accurately diagnose the full array of basic dental conditions, including gum disease and cavities. This same good dentist may have multiple options for how to treat these conditions, too, such as crowns, dental implants, or tooth-colored fillings. In most dental offices rated for good care, patients receive prompt care, though their visits may be somewhat brief to maintain the busy schedule of the office. This kind of care is, well, good. The question is, is it good enough?

If you haven’t heard, great dental care can be life-changing. Great care involves all of the same basic services provided by a good dentist and then some. The richness of great dental care is not only seen, but it is also felt. It isn’t solely about services; it’s about service. It’s about the dental team taking the time to get to know you, your lifestyle, your oral care habits, your genetic disposition toward oral health. A great dentist is an educator, an investigator, and support that first seeks to understand, and then seeks to create a care plan for individual needs.

Our offices in Beverly Hills and London are known for friendly, personable care. Our desire to turn your first visit into a lifelong professional relationship is evident in the way we get to know what matters to you, and then enable that to be reflected in your smile.

Schedule A Consultation

Are you ready to experience great dental care? Call 310-276-4537 to schedule your visit with Dr. David Frey.

Dentists do the best they can to meet patients’ needs for oral function and optimal esthetics. For years, the only methods for achieving this after tooth loss were with bridges and dentures. While this was the best that was available, there were limitations that were difficult to overcome. The standard natural-tooth bridge, in which the artificial tooth is supported by two natural teeth that have been crowned, lasts an average of 6.1 years. That’s not very long in the grand scheme of things.

Dental Implants

Recently, we have seen a growing interest in dental implants for minor and major oral rehabilitation after tooth loss. There is no question that implants can significantly improve outcome, with their 99% success rate. There is also no question that implants are better at stabilizing restorations such as crowns, bridges, or dentures than other methods. So, what we need to look at regarding value, is the lifespan of the average implant.

Factors That Affect Longevity Of Implants

There are a few things that may affect the lifespan of an implant. The good news is that, when these factors can be mitigated, the patient may enjoy indefinite functionality.

Excessive Force

Tooth grinding and clenching are more serious than many people imagine. This condition, also known as bruxism, may be especially harmful to the integration of a dental implant. The excessive force placed onto the supporting connective tissues can degrade the casing of bone around the metal post. Patients with bruxism may require corrective treatment, or a night guard to reduce the physical impact.

Inflammation

Just as inflammation of the gums may cause deterioration around natural teeth, these conditions around a restoration can adversely affect the implant. Only the inorganic implant materials are resistant to disease, natural oral tissues, such as bone, are not. If oral bacteria enter the surface tissues, the periodontal ligament is next in line for depreciation. Good hygiene habits do not become any less important after tooth replacement with dental implants. Brushing and flossing must be performed daily to maintain healthy gums and the life of the implant.

Schedule A Consultation

Do you want more information on dental implants? A friendly staff member in our Beverly Hills office can be reached at 310-276-4537.

Dentistry is serious business to Dr. Frey and the staff in our Beverly Hills and London cosmetic dentistry offices. Still, we know that to learn new things, you have to have a little fun, too. Here, we invite you to test your knowledge about oral health and cosmetic dentistry with our Dental IQ Quiz.

A Slightly Turned Tooth Can Be Corrected By

1. Braces or Invisalign
2. Dental bonding
3. Porcelain veneers
4. All of the above

Answer: 4. To get technical, braces or Invisalign will correct misalignment. Bonding and porcelain veneers are cosmetic fixes that make the turned tooth appear straight. Doing so can also reduce tight spaces in which bacteria may accumulate, resulting in a decreased risk of plaque as well as a more attractive smile.

Porcelain Veneers Are Good For

1. Cracks
2. Chips
3. Gaps
4. All of the above

Answer: 4. One of the reasons why porcelain veneer procedures have become the norm in cosmetic dentistry is because the thin sheaths of material can do so much! In addition to closing gaps and covering cracks and chips, porcelain veneers can also disguise tough stains, adding brightness to the smile.

The Best Way To Whiten Teeth Is

1. Laser teeth whitening
2. Home whitening kit
3. In-office Zoom! Whitening
4. All of the above
5. None of the above

Answer: 5. We could not say that any particular procedure is more efficient than any other. The fact is, you will get the same gorgeous results from home whitening as you would with whitening performed in the dental office. What is important is that you consult with your dentist about getting a more radiant smile. Trying to whiten at home using commercial or home remedies could lead to frustration and may even lead to tooth or gum damage.

Dr. Frey, a member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, has been treating patients general and cosmetic dentistry needs for over two decades. His extensive training is advantageous for any person who wants their smile to accurately and beautifully reflect their personality.

We would love to speak with you about your dental needs! Call our Beverly Hills cosmetic dentistry office today.

Telling stories is the way that much of our history gets passed down from generation to generation. Stories can entertain, they can teach. If you’re not careful, the stories you tell yourself could also inhibit your total wellness. Here, we want to point out some of the stories people tell themselves when they need tooth replacement. Specifically, these stories are related to dental implants. And to be clear, they aren’t stories; they are all lies that we want our Beverly Hills patients to steer clear of.

“I don’t deserve to get dental implants.”

Would you ever tell yourself that you don’t deserve to have a full set of natural teeth? These oral fixtures sprouted up in your mouth before you ever game them a thought before you ever did anything to “deserve” them. Why would dental implants be any different, other than that they have become necessary to restore a natural look and feel to your smile? They aren’t. You deserve to have the ability to make all the sounds of speech, to chew crunchy and dense and chewy foods like nobody’s business! Translation: you have to do nothing at all to deserve dental implants.

“I’m old, and it doesn’t matter.”

You know who tells themselves this story? Patients in mid-life! Patients who have many more years ahead of them to smile and speak and eat and laugh and enjoy life. And, to be honest, even a 90-year-old who is in good health could get dental implants. Why spend even one year, one day, with a dental restoration that does not meet all of your needs? No matter your age, we are happy to consult with you about tooth replacement that works.

“Dental implants are too expensive.”

This is a big story and one that should not be told. All forms of tooth replacement require the monetary investment. Some cost less up front but keep you paying throughout the years. Implants cost more up front, but patients typically require less maintenance for restorations after their initial investment.

“I’m fine without a replacement tooth at all.”

It’s difficult to address this story without rolling the eyes a little. We’ll be clear. You need your teeth, every last one of them. The gap in the mouth will be noticeable. More than that, the fact that a tooth is just not there means that other teeth have to pick up the slack, putting them at risk for excessive wear and damage.

Put an end to stories like these by getting the facts about dental implants. Call our Beverly Hills office at 310-276-4537.

There are several symptoms that you may experience on a routine basis, never realizing that the soreness or stiffness in your jaw could be an actual disorder. If your jaw makes popping sounds when you chew, or you simply feel tension across the jaw, it is possible that you are affected by TMJ disorder. TMJ disorder is centralized in the joints of the jaw, the temporomandibular joints. However, the problem may not originate here. As well, symptoms may extend beyond those normally associated with TMJ disorder.

The Challenge Of TMJ Disorder

Because symptoms and causes are not the same across the board, discovering how to improve the oral health and wellness of a patient means that we have to do some investigative work. We must seek out evidence to support the suspected cause of pain. This is where Beverly Hills dentist Dr. Frey begins the path toward comfort. With a strong background in neuromuscular dentistry, Dr. Frey understands the subtlety with which symptoms of TMJ may occur. He looks beyond the obvious and is, therefore, able to develop the proper treatment protocol for each patient.

How Is TMJ Developed?

There are several reasons for the development of TMJ disorder. Essentially, any factor that instigates excessive, chronic pressure on the TMJs can signal the onset of symptoms. This could be a gum-chewing habit. It could be bruxism occurring when one sleeps, or it could be that the joints were injured during an athletic event. Sometimes, TMJ develops over time due to stress caused by malocclusion.

Causes Of TMJ

The cause of TMJ disorder differs as much from person to person as much as the symptoms each will struggle with. From this standpoint, it is easy to understand why a singular method of treatment may not be appropriate for every case. To determine how we can help you resolve your TMJ symptoms, we perform a thorough evaluation of your jaw and the structures in question.

TMJ Treatment

Treatment for TMJ disorder often involves a custom oral appliance. Those that we supply to our patients are truly customized, fabricated from high-quality images based on accurate models of the oral structure obtained with a TENS device and Electromyography.

Are you suffering from the signs of TMJ disorder, such as chronic headaches or migraines, pain in your jaw or face? Let’s talk. Contact the office of Dr. Frey at 310-276-4537. We are now seeing patients in Beverly Hills and  Marylebone, UK.

So much has changed over the past century that very little of what we do today follows the same basic methodologies. We no longer rely on horsepower in the same ways that Grandma and Grandpa may have. And, according to statistics, we are also enjoying greater health than our ancestors did. This includes better oral health and less instances of tooth loss. Still, the problem is not completely uncommon. More than 35 million people in our country are without natural teeth, and more than 175 million have lost at least one permanent tooth.

Teeth are lost for all sorts of reasons. In some instances, it is important that we unlock the cause of tooth loss, especially if there are numerous missing teeth. However, the primary issue that we address is replacement. The idea that tooth replacement is an unnecessary expense is antiquated at this point in time, and for good reason. It isn’t just that we want to retain a natural aesthetic. It is that more people are realizing the true cost of not replacing missing teeth.

Loss Of Adequate Tooth Function

Teeth serve more than one function. While their visual appearance makes the smile look nice, teeth are primarily intended for biting and chewing. If tooth loss occurs at the front of the mouth, biting will be inhibited. If it is a molar that is lost, chewing will not be as efficient as it should be. What often happens is that a person begins to chew more on the side of the mouth that has a full line of teeth. The problem that this creates is excessive stress on those teeth, as well as the muscles, ligaments, and joints in the jaw.

Another vital function that our teeth fulfill has to do with our ability to speak. Sounds are made with the tongue and teeth, and how they come into contact. If there is no tooth for the tongue to “hit,” certain sounds will be disrupted.

Loss Of Adequate Tooth Structure

Teeth in and of themselves offer structure to the lips, to speech, and to the face. More so, the height of the bone beneath the gums is also crucial to overall facial structure. After a tooth is lost, there is no stimulation sent into the bone to prompt regeneration. As such, the inactive bone deteriorates. This breakdown of bone tissue can occur relatively quickly within the first year and a half after a tooth is lost or extracted, so prompt replacement of the tooth and its missing root is more important than you may imagine.

Dr. David Frey is pleased to offer concierge dentistry in Beverly Hills and London. For more information on our services, call 310-276-4537.

Cavities. These small problems are often considered common among children much more so than adults. However, there are individuals for whom cavities continue to be a struggle, despite their best efforts to take good care of their teeth. There is such a thing as being prone to cavities. Here, we will discuss the factors that may lead to the prevalence of tooth decay, and what you can do about them.

Tooth Shape

Because our Beverly Hills practice is largely devoted to cosmetic dentistry, the topic of tooth shape often relates to the appearance of the smile. The shape is also relevant to the development of cavities, though. There is a reason why a large majority of cavities are detected on molars. These back teeth are larger, with deep grooves in their center. Cavities may develop more easily in these grooves due to the ease with which bacteria and debris may become trapped here. Dental sealants are predominantly applied on children’s teeth. However, this preventive treatment may also enable the adult to break free from recurring cavities.

Dry Mouth

One of the most common reasons that an adult will struggle with frequent cavities, as well as gum disease, is inadequate saliva. Dry mouth is a relatively common condition that may coincide with a chronic health condition such as diabetes. Individuals who are undergoing chemotherapy or who take certain medications may also find it more difficult to keep the mouth moist. To do so, sip water every 20 to 30 minutes. Chewing sugar-less gum may also help.

Misalignment

Most adults don’t think much about the alignment of their teeth. They either wore braces during their youth, or the extent of misalignment is not significant enough that orthodontic care seems necessary. In truth, even a slight overlap of a tooth could increase the risk of tooth decay. Like the deep crevices in back teeth, crowding invites bacteria and debris into a hidden area. Depending on the severity of misalignment, it may be possible to achieve improvement with Invisalign or short-term braces.

Schedule a visit with Beverly Hills cosmetic dentist Dr. Frey at 310-276-4537.

Have you lost that special something in your smile, something like your teeth? Even if the tooth that has been lost is in the back of your mouth, consequences will occur. Even ancient civilizations understood this, as is evidenced by the development of dentures back in 700BC. We need our teeth to look healthy and attractive. We also need our teeth – as many of them as possible – so we can chew food sufficiently to maintain physical health. Tooth loss has been an important topic of discussion and, fortunately, are of research and development. The benefits of dental implants for tooth replacement are evident to patients of our Beverly Hills office.

What Are Dental Implants?

Most people have heard of dental implants, but may not really know what these fixtures are. A dental implant looks like a very small screw. Essentially, it is; one that is made of biocompatible material, and for specific use in the mouth.  A dental implant is not seen. Its permanent location is hidden beneath the gums. This replicates the natural structure of teeth roots, and it also reinstates the same stability one gets from the natural framework.

The fact that dental implants are singular posts does not mean that your dentist replaces one tooth at a time. This method of restorative care has evolved over the past few decades into a technique through which patients can replace just one tooth, or a number of teeth. Most recently, dental implants have become the new norm in full-mouth replacement with dentures. Using the appropriate number of posts, approximately 12, an experienced implant dentist sets the stage for a lifetime of stability, comfort, and natural beauty. Thanks to implants, tooth replacement will never look the same.

Finding Your Path

The beauty of dental implant treatment is that there are no hard-set rules. It used to be that bone structure was a factor in determining a patient’s candidacy. Today, there are ways to build up bone tissue in areas of substantial loss, making implants available to a much wider patient demographic. During the initial consultation and examination, we assess bone density, gum health, and we also discuss general health and lifestyle habits, such as tobacco use.

Schedule A Consultation

Discover how Beverly Hills dentist Dr. David Frey can help you get your smile back after tooth loss. Call 310-276-4537.

Most Americans have heard once or twice (or several times) that “smoking is not good for you.” Yes, yes, yes. Smoking can cause lung cancer. And yet, this habit remains a prevalent condition in our country, not only among adults but among young people, as well. The fact is, studies have identified several thousand chemicals in cigarette smoke. Of these, nearly 100 of them are known to cause cancer. The “C” word, aside, there are direct ways in which the use of tobacco, and all of its complementary chemicals, affects your mouth.

Discoloration

Stained teeth look old. At the very least, discoloration makes your smile forgettable. Stained teeth can look unhealthy. At worst, they can make you look unwell! Smoking and other tobacco use affect enamel in two ways. First, the chemicals in tobacco products deposit molecules onto the surface of teeth. These are absorbed into the microscopic pores in enamel, where they block light and cause teeth to look dull. The more molecules that are absorbed, the darker and more yellow teeth become. Many smokers, if they do not have their teeth whitened periodically, eventually develop brown stains around the gum line. The second way that tobacco use degrades the smile is by weakening enamel, thus making it vulnerable to further discoloration.

Gum Degradation

For gum tissue to be healthy and strong, it requires oxygenation. Tobacco use impedes the uptake of oxygen into tissues by decreasing the level of oxygen in the blood. Without adequate nutrients, the gums become weak and loose around teeth. This tissue becomes susceptible to the consequences of oral bacteria, which create an acidic surface on which infection can more easily develop. Gum disease is a progressive condition that can spread beneath the gums to the periodontal ligament and, eventually, to the bone.

We can help you brighten your smile with professional teeth whitening, hiding the fact that you use tobacco. What we would like to do is help you preserve the health of your teeth and mouth with routine oral care and assistance when you are ready to “kick the habit.”

Dr. Frey has provided outstanding dental care to patients in the Los Angeles area and far beyond for the past 25 years. His services will soon cross the pond, with our new office location in London opening soon. To schedule a visit in our Beverly Hills office, call us today.,