How do I know if I need a root canal or filling?

Root canals and fillings are used to treat teeth that have some kind of tooth decay or cavity. Dental fillings are used for smaller cavities whereas root canal therapy may be needed for teeth that have more extensive damage. Untreated cavities will progress to infect the pulp, creating the need for root canal treatment in order to save the tooth.

Root canals are necessary because damage to the pulp is permanent and cannot be reversed. The tooth pulp will need to be cleaned and the damaged portion will need to be removed. If enough time goes by and the tooth is left untreated, you may lose the tooth and extraction is needed. Addressing the infected tooth in a timely manner is imperative to saving the tooth.

Signs and symptoms of needing a root canal include:

• Constant, throbbing pain 
• Tooth sensitivity to hot/cold foods or liquids 
• Swelling of the gums around the tooth 
• Tooth discoloration 

If you think you have a cavity or an infected tooth, contact our Huntington Beach dentist at 714-848-4247 for an appointment. Remember, the earlier you come in, the better chance there is that the tooth can be saved!

Contact Information:

Robert J. Moretta, D.D.S, F.A.G.D - Sea Cliff Dental
18652 Florida St. #300
Huntington Beach, CA 92648
714.848.4247
http://rmoretta.com/

Five Christmas gift ideas that can make your loved ones smile!

The holidays are often a favorite time of year because it’s a time filled with celebrations of family and friends, while also being filled with delicious foods and desserts. It is also often referred to as the “season of giving” where the beautiful side of humanity is depicted, where charities donate large amounts of food and clothing to those that need it most. We also give gifts to friends and family to show our appreciation. However, year after year, it can often happen that we run out of ideas of what to get our loved ones as gifts. Below are some ideas to those of you who have run out of them or simply are looking for something new to give:

• Professional teeth whitening coupon or gift card: The New Year is filled with new resolutions as a new year marks a new beginning. Your loved one will thank you for giving them the gift of a healthy, white smile for 2015! 
• Home whitening kit: For those family or friends who prefer to do things on their own time in the comfort of their home, this is ultimate gift. You are giving them the ability to start the New Year while a new, white smile without even having to change out of their pajamas. 
• Give the gift of a new smile: This can be with orthodontics or veneers. Many of us would often love to have the treatment done but don’t have the time or money. We promise your loved one will always remember you every time he or she flashes their new celebrity-style smile. 
• Smile-enhancing stocking suffers: Travel sizes of toothpaste or mouthwash along with a toothbrush and floss will make for excellent stocking surprises that can be placed to good use! We all love traveling, so this will allow for you loved one to have these items handy to tend to their beautiful smiles while on vacation! 
• Give your child a good dental book on oral hygiene: It’s always better to start oral habits early, and most children love books, anyway! There are thousands of titles that often come with stuffed animals or dolls to help bring the story to life (Check out Scholastic’s list of books to read before a dental visit).

Whatever you decide to purchase as a gift for your loved ones this holiday season, be sure to keep in mind that it’s the intention that counts. It’s not about what’s under the Christmas tree, but who is around it. From our dental family to yours, we wish you happy holidays and a healthy and prosperous 2015. We hope to see you soon!

Contact Information:

Robert J. Moretta, D.D.S, F.A.G.D - Sea Cliff Dental
18652 Florida St. #300
Huntington Beach, CA 92648
714.848.4247
http://rmoretta.com/

Have a white smile during the holidays!

The holidays are almost here! This is such a great time of year when most dream of looking their best for the ones they love and friends or family that are only seen during this time of year. Looking your best isn’t limited to your outfit or hairdo, it has to do with your teeth as well! Your smile is usually the first thing people notice when you speak or smile. Follow these tips during the holidays and keep your smile bright, right into the New Year.

Beneficial foods for the holidays: 

• Snacks which involve extensive amounts of chewing such as apples, celery, and carrots will help whiten your teeth because they naturally remove stains due to their fibrous nature. They are considered natural exfoliates. 
• Natural greens, which include foods like spinach, broccoli, and lettuce, are recommended in stain prevention because they are known to generate a film over teeth that mimic a barrier on the teeth to harmful substances. 
• Always keep a glass of water close whenever you are drinking wine, coffee, or eggnog. This will help remove staining pigments from attaching to your teeth, staining them. 

Helpful tips for a clean smile: 

• We recommend brushing your teeth immediately after eating a meal. This will remove any remaining food particles that could cause harm to your teeth. Need an example? Treat your teeth just like you would treat a white shirt. If you are eating anything you would be afraid to get on a white shirt, make sure you brush right after! 
• Floss once a day, every day. This helps remove plaque and other substances that could stain your teeth. Be sure to pay close attention to any areas deep areas between teeth as stains stick to these areas. 
• Never skip brushing your teeth before going to bed. It’s dangerous and unhealthy!

During the holidays, precautions should be taken to be sure that you teeth remain healthy into the New Year. However, this is also a time to enjoy the company of friends and family. Please do hesitate to contact our dental office in Huntington Beach, should you have any questions. Our dentist is glad to help! From our family to yours, may you have a warm and healthy Thanksgiving!

Replace candy with healthy Halloween snacks!

Most children are excited about Halloween not only because they can dress up as their favorite characters, but also because they will have access to an abnormal amount of candy. However, there are other great ways to have them celebrate this American holiday with non-candy snacks that are just as fun! Some of our alternatives for the upcoming Halloween are below:

• Fruit snacks: you can make Halloween fun by giving out these fruity figures and characters for kids to enjoy. Caramel grapes, frozen banana ghosts, popcorn ghosts, mandarin oranges “pumpkins” are also great ideas that are good for both your teeth and heart. Look for great ideas on Pinterest and the internet!


• Healthier candy choices: many of the most popular food and candy brands are making different editions of their famous snacks that have less sugar. Look out for these while at the grocery store or shop for “fun” sizes. Dark chocolate, peanut M&M´s and tootsie rolls are also better options to select.


• Organic pops: organic candies have no preservatives or harmful acids which can also be a good idea for Halloween.

Enjoy this Halloween with your friends and family by making healthier food and candy choices. Don´t forget to visit us regularly for cleanings and exams to maintain your healthy smile.
Visit our website for more information: http://rmoretta.com/

Contact Information:

Robert J. Moretta, D.D.S, F.A.G.D - Sea Cliff Dental
18652 Florida St. #300
Huntington Beach, CA 92648
714.848.4247
http://rmoretta.com/

Should I get dental implants?

Dental implants are the most advanced technique for replacing missing teeth offered in modern dentistry. Dental implants are a permanent solution if you are missing a tooth or teeth due to an accident, disease, trauma or decay.

Dental implants are fixed teeth that are attached to the jaw bone. As a result, they look, feel and function just like natural teeth. Dental implants require no special treatment. Brush and floss regularly, just as you would with your natural teeth. It is also imperative that you visit your dentist for routine visits to ensure that everything is functioning correctly.

Dr. Moretta is highly experienced and qualified in dental implant placement. Visit our office for a consultation if you a missing one or more teeth so that together you may decide if dental implants are the right option for you in replacing your missing teeth. Call or visit our dental office today!

How often should I see a dentist?

If you want to have a winning smile, we encourage that you visit our dentist in Huntington Beach for regular cleaning and exams. A healthy and clean smile is attained through brushing and flossing regularly and also by making sure you make it to the dentist every six month. Having excellent oral care can save you from illnesses and can improve your overall health. In the event that you experience any discomfort or if your fall into any of the following categories, we invite you to contact our experienced dentist:

• Are at higher risk for developing oral diseases.
• If you smoke or consume alcohol.
• If you suffer from Diabetes.
• If you are pregnant: this is because pregnant women experience a higher risk of developing periodontal diseases.
• If you eat lots of sweets 
• If you have experienced or have a history of previous oral disease, oral decay or poor oral hygiene.

Visit our dental practice in Huntington Beach for a complete oral and dental evaluation. We have an experienced and caring dental staff that will provide you with the best oral care in Huntington Beach! Visit us today!

For a great cause.

Hi everyone. This year I will be riding in the Ride 2 Recovery like I did last year. The ride will be held on August 2. (Here is the site for information https://www.ride2recovery.com/page.php?ID=433) There were 300 riders last year and I received the most donations of any single rider totaling almost $1100.00. I would like to top last year's total and I need your help. (Any little bit will be appreciated.) All proceeds will go to American Vets that have been injured. I will be riding the 61 mile route. If you would like to help with a donation, here is the web site http://www.active.com/donate/orangecounty/RMorett3. Thank you very much!