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Archive for October, 2009

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Sensitivity to Dental Materials Testing Offered by Beverly Hills Dentist

Wednesday, October 28th, 2009

In the Los Angeles area, Dr. Kourosh Maddahi, Beverly Hills dentist, considers testing patients with biocompatibility sensitivity very important before choosing the dental materials he will use for fillings and other dental work.

Society seems to be coming all the more aware of the possible effects of toxic products – those used in food like MSG, decorations like lead, and on and on. Most recently there has been widespread concern about the ingredients in inoculations for flu and other illnesses.

It is also highly imperative to recognize the consequence of certain chemicals and substances that are employed by dentists in dental care. Some individuals have discovered sensitivity to dental materials already in use and some have found that these materials are actually toxic to their bodies with consequences ranging from breathing difficulties, headaches or dizziness to debilitating illness.

Testing is available to discover sensitivity to certain compounds. A well-known example of toxic dental materials, mercury amalgam fillings, has been well documented to be an irritant for many dental patients.

Dr. Tom McGuire, DDS, is an innovative dental researcher and principal in holistic dental wellness. He explains, “Mercury amalgam fillings continuously release mercury vapor, the most poisonous, naturally occurring, non-radioactive substance on earth, into your body. The mercury amalgams emit contributes to over 100 health issues. “

Dr. McGuire further clarifies, “For some, the effects of dental materials on their health can be significant. Today we are exposed to thousands of potentially toxic substances that didn’t exist 50, or even 20, years ago and every year more are added to the list. The effects on health of man-made substances vary from person to person. Some may not be affected, while, for others, the same substance may be toxic and elicit a harmful reaction. The source of these substances range from what is put into the food we eat, to household chemicals, pesticides, toxic substances resulting from the manufacturing process, auto emissions, and products and materials used in medical and dental treatment.”

Serum biocompatibility testing is a laboratory screening procedure employed to assist in the identification of sensitivity issues to various chemical groups and families of compounds in an individual patient. “I suggest to many patients that they take advantage of serum biocompatibility testing.”, explains Dr. Maddahi.  “It is possible to use a serum blood specimen to determine what one’s ‘least toxic’ replacement dental materials might be. We use the term ‘least toxic’ because any foreign substance introduced into the body will, to some degree, aggravate the immune system. This is the purpose of the immune system, to ward off substances not naturally found in the body.”

Traditional immunological methods utilized produce test results that report on almost 7000 trade-named products and 100 chemical groups and varieties. The test will specifically determine existing systemic allergies that may be associated with these bio-materials and the restorative products that are utilized for the repair and reconstruction of teeth, bone structures, joints and other body tissue.

Therefore once a patient has been tested, he is able to avoid highly toxic products in his system and Beverly Hills dentist, Dr. Kourosh Maddahi, can choose, with confidence, the dental materials that will be the best to be used for fillings and other dental work.

Smiles are More Healthy and Beautiful with Cosmetic Dentistry

Wednesday, October 28th, 2009

Cosmetic dentistry is important for health as it focuses not only on the appearance of the teeth, but also the long-term dental health of the patient. When being seen by a highly qualified and reputable cosmetic dentist in Los Angeles, such as Dr. Kourosh Maddahi, whose cosmetic dentist office is located in Beverly Hills, you will most often discover the most modern technology available for use.

With a widely trusted and respected dentist to help you choose the procedures and materials that are best for you, it is possible to completely resolve your dental health issues. While Dr. Maddahi focuses on the appearance of the teeth, because of his extensive background and education in traditional dentistry, the dental health of the patient is foremost in his treatment plan.

Beverly Hills Dentist, Dr. Kourosh Maddahi, has explained that many a patient will find that oral health is significant to how they consider their appearance. Their consideration on this can directly affect their sense of well-being. But, he says, “not so many individuals understand the direct corollary between dental health and their daily health.”

Dr. Maddahi continues, “I can help my patients with many techniques today. Porcelain laminate veneers and dental implants are two common options that can create drastic cosmetic changes, and have a great positive impact on a patient’s appearance. There are different circumstances that would indicate the need for one or the other.”

One of the most significant advances in cosmetic dentistry today are porcelain veneers. Veneers are able to correct an extensive selection of dental problems. These include chips, stains, cracked teeth, crookedness and gaps between the teeth, all without long-drawn-out orthodontic care.

Veneers are usually made from porcelain, as porcelain is extremely durable and has color, translucence and texture similar to natural tooth enamel. Veneers are almost instant solutions to dental problems, as they are usually placed in only two visits over a several week period. Porcelain veneers create a straight, perfect smile that is natural and beautiful, in just so little time.

With missing teeth, dental implants are most often the best option. Implants are used as a permanent correction for missing teeth and are literally artificial tooth root replacements. The implant is built using lightweight titanium, a material which has proven to be strong and safe. Titanium bonds remarkably well with bone. Then a porcelain crown can be attached to the artificial root.

The importance of dental health and replacing missing teeth cannot be exaggerated. “When a patient has missing teeth, the jawbone begins to shrink, making the face look older. Dentures sit on top of the gums, and do not stop this shrinkage. Over time dentures become uncomfortable and ill-fitting, as the shape of the patient’s jawbone continues to change,” explains Dr. Maddahi.  “Implant supported replacement teeth are like natural teeth because they are secured to the bone. Patients with dental implants can chew and speak confidently.”

Whether you are considering veneers or implants, or if a different cosmetic procedure is necessary, having a beautiful smile can make you feel better about yourself. Once you are more confidently able to enjoy life, your dental and physical health is improved.

Los Angeles cosmetic dentist, Dr. Kourosh Maddahi, with his dentist office Beverly Hills, uses high-tech equipment and procedures to attain the beautiful and natural-looking smiles that his patients require.

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Dental Implants are a Permanent Solution that will Make You Smile!

Wednesday, October 28th, 2009

If you ask the Los Angeles cosmetic dentist of Beverly Hills, Dr. Kourosh Maddahi, he will most often recommend dental implants as the solution for missing teeth. Because implants are permanently affixed and secure, they make smiling, talking, and eating more enjoyable.

Additionally, implants provide a very natural feel and look. They are just like having the original tooth in place; this is why the use of dental implants instead of bridges and dentures has recently exploded in popularity. They look completely natural, not fake like dentures frequently can. Dental implants are not very likely to loosen, unlike dentures which eventually have to be replaced.

“If you are like millions of Americans who have lost one or more teeth,” explains Dr. Maddahi, “you may be all too familiar with the unpleasant consequences. I tell my patients with missing teeth that they should consider dental implants. For many, missing teeth lead to an unattractive smile, embarrassment from loose dentures, and pain or difficulty with eating. Traditional dentistry can provide replacements for missing teeth using bridges, removable partials and dentures; however, each of these has its problems.”

Partials and dentures can create speech difficulty. They sometimes lead to denture sores. But a more important health issue is in play. There is a problem linked with tooth loss, which is a shrinking of the jawbone – a process known as ‘atrophy’ and that can progress over the years. Bone atrophy can affect jaw function, and has also been found to create unfavorable facial cosmetic changes, and this shows up the need for denture replacement.

The scientific research dental implants are based in began in the 50’s when there was a discovery that metal titanium was able to bond with bone. Therefore, the dental implant consists of titanium cylinders that are anchored into the jawbone supporting completely natural looking porcelain crowns.

With no more a need for dentures and bridges, it is now easier to eat and speak, smiles are greatly improved, and the hassle of dentures and partials is relieved. While dental implants are a more contemporary cosmetic dentistry option than dentures they have survived the test of time, with patients who have had successful implant supported teeth for more than twenty-five years.

Dr. Kourosh Maddahi always likes to educate his patients on the subject of the many dental choices available. He thoroughly explains the health importance of his dental implant recommendation. “Missing teeth cause the obvious problems of diminished appearance and self-esteem of a patient. However, it may not be as apparent that missing teeth affect an individual’s general health, as well as the health of remaining teeth. When teeth go unreplaced, surrounding teeth can also be lost. Additional cosmetic dental problems can be caused by tipping or crowding of the teeth adjacent to the missing teeth.”

There is clearly no longer a need for a patient to suffer uncomfortable bridges and dentures. No other option to replace missing teeth has proven to be as as natural in appearance or as successful as dental implants. In many, many cases, dental implants have been found to be the single sensible option in order to completely restore the function of the teeth and jaw.

Los Angeles cosmetic dentist of Beverly Hills, Dr. Kourosh Maddahi, reports additionally that most patients have found that the look they achieve with their implants is the most comparable to natural teeth.

How Dr. Kourosh Maddahi Answers the Most Frequently Asked Dental Questions

Thursday, October 22nd, 2009

Dr. Kourosh Maddahi, Los Angeles cosmetic dentist, whose dentist office is conveniently located in Beverly Hills, answers several of the questions most frequently asked about cosmetic dentistry.

What is high-tech dentistry and why is it important?
Dr. Maddahi’s office strives to stay up-to-date with the latest cosmetic dentistry technology, in order to best service his patients. Digital x-rays are a good example of this, as with digital x-rays not only does the patient receive 90% less radiation than conventional X-rays, they save time. In only three seconds the X-ray image transfers to the computer screen, and that’s important.

Is it possible to know what my new smile will look like before the procedure is performed?
With the use of state-of-the-art Digital Cosmetic Imaging, a patient is able to see what their new smile will look like. This makes it so much easier to see and make changes to the plan before any work is done.

I like to know a lot about my procedures before they begin. Is this a problem like with some other dentists? They always seem to be so rushed.
Dr. Maddahi insists on taking the time to explain everything to his patients. Additionally he wants to get any questions from them or hear any concerns they may have. His practice is based on a very open communication between his staff and patients and he and his staff are naturally very willing to provide for any special needs of their patients.

Can cosmetic dentistry handle the gaps between my teeth and my uneven teeth or do I need orthodontics?
Yes, with the use of porcelain veneers, Dr. Maddahi can repair an unsightly smile so there is no longer any gap, and the teeth are even. Additionally, the new smile will look natural and beautiful because of his outstanding artistry combined with the advanced equipment in the office.

Is cosmetic dentistry better than orthodontics?
Of course, wearing unsightly braces and retainers can be embarrassing and painful and orthodontic treatment often can take years. In most cases, Dr. Maddahi can create a natural-looking, comfortable smile instantly with porcelain veneers.

How are the unsightly stains on my teeth best handled?
Dr. Maddahi only uses Zoom!2 Chairside Tooth Whitening, which is an in-office tooth whitening procedure. The hydrogen peroxide gel, which is the main ingredient in the whitener, is at a much stronger concentration in the dental office than found in in-home procedures, so it whitens better and much faster. The Zoom! gel whitens both enamel and dentin, so you’ll be greatly pleased with the natural looking new color of your teeth.

How painful will my procedure be?
Dr. Maddahi endeavors to make every procedure he does as stress-free and painless as possible. It has been found that the speed of application is often the cause for the pain often found when getting anesthetic through a needle. Dr. Maddahi uses “The Wand” to apply local anesthesia more slowly.  He uses an air drill in place of metal drills whenever possible so the amount of pain is decreased.  And as a plus, in many cases with the air drill anesthesia is not needed at all.

Beverly Hills dentist, Dr. Kourosh Maddahi, prides himself on using the newest, high-tech procedures and equipment to create beautiful, natural smiles.

Repairing Dental Work, Resulting in Beautiful, Natural Smiles

Tuesday, October 20th, 2009

Beverly Hills cosmetic dentist, Dr. Kourosh Maddahi, is committed to creating completely natural looking, beautiful smiles.  “All too often I find that the patient sitting in front of me has just spent thousands of dollars for a new smile or to repair teeth, that now I need to restore that smile, because someone has just done poor dental work.”

Dr. Kourosh Maddahi, a favored Los Angeles dentist, transforms discolored teeth, poorly shaped teeth, unattractive gum levels and large spaces rapidly, crafting a beautiful smile makeover. We have all seen friends or co-workers with new dental work that looks unnatural; perhaps the teeth are too big or too small, perhaps a bad choice of color or just the wrong style.

Dr. Maddahi has a very exact methodology, “When I look at a patient, I am not just looking at their teeth.  I am looking at their whole face, how to make a smile to match their personality, the symmetry of their face.” His passionate combination of dentistry and artistry is the formula that made Dr. Maddahi one of Los Angeles’ leading cosmetic dentists.

It also helps a lot that he has the capacity to work with the patient, to hear what they want, what they suggest and to find out what it is that they are most comfortable with. Using state-of-the-art digital cosmetic imaging equipment, he and the patient together find the best new smile for them. The computerized image shows the current smile and a simulation of the future work.

“When a patient comes to my office with the need for repair work, we carefully discuss all the options.”, explains Dr. Maddahi. “There are so many choices these days. Perhaps they only need a teeth whitening. Others might want to match certain teeth the rest of their mouth. The choices are many, including porcelain veneers, teeth whitening, cosmetic implants, bridges, recontouring, composite bonding, dentures or even same day porcelain crowns, inlays, and onlays.”

Because the artistic eye is vital for cosmetic dentistry, despite good training, extensive experience and important certificates, some dentists just don’t have what it takes to create natural, beautiful smiles that match the personality and facial symmetry of the patient.

In the field of dentistry, the technology is always changing, the field expanding and new tech abounds. Dr. Maddahi explains the importance to him of the new avenues that he reaches for. “I always strive to stay up-to-date on leading-edge techniques and treatments. I constantly look for ways to advance, whether it be from continued courses, other dentists or through hands-on experience.”
One patient asked to share his story with other dental patients. He had been married for 20 years and his wife had never seen his full smile. He went from dentist to dentist, trying to find a solution for his unsightly smile. He explains, “ With shame I kept my mouth shut – hiding away.” And then he met with Dr. Maddahi and a week later he had his temporary teeth. After one more visit he had the smile he needed.

“I have a bright smile and a bright future. I’m not self-conscious anymore. For a good twenty years I use to half grin with my mouth shut. I got the wrong reaction from others. It was often interpreted that I was a surly guy. I was encountering that and people were backed off because I couldn’t use my face to express myself because I was hiding my smile.”

Dr. Kourosh Maddahi, Los Angeles cosmetic dentist, creates completely natural looking, beautiful smiles.

Aesthetic Eye and High Tech Skills Becomes Perfection with Speed

Tuesday, October 20th, 2009

Completely natural looking, beautiful smiles are the expected standard in business and personal circumstances. It’s an interesting change in customary standards, but when you realize how easy it now is to achieve a perfect smile it’s no wonder.

Dr. Kourosh Maddahi, Beverly Hills cosmetic dentist, is well known in Los Angeles for his aesthetic eye as well as his high tech skill and artistry in the creating of a better smile in record time. Dr. Maddahi practices speed and perfection, while providing beautiful and absolutely natural-looking smiles, and does so consistently, and very quickly.

Indeed, the amount of time it may take for him to create a beautiful, natural new smile, whether he is performing a whole mouth reconstruction or only replacing a few teeth, is record-breaking!

How? Dr. Maddahi perfected this speed drill while filming for the many television shows that have used him over the past years to demonstrate smile makeovers. What came of this experience was perfection and speed. Imagine being filmed by a television crew, who have an exact timetable laid out, and who are only in the office for a few hours.

Having been filmed for numerous television networks such as CNN, Fox and ABC, as well as having been seen on such shows as Oprah, Entertainment Tonight and Good Day LA, to name just a few, Dr. Maddahi learned to get his work done in the time allotted, and he always had to make sure it was perfect!

Sadly, a beautiful and completely natural-looking smile is not always the outcome of some cosmetic dentistry. We have all seen teeth that have been made too white, or too big for the lips. Some dental work just does not look natural; perhaps the shape, size or hue of the teeth is incorrect. Not so with Dr. Maddahi!

While Dr. Kourosh Maddahi specializes in complete smile makeovers, he also offers porcelain crowns and veneers, teeth whitening, and a full array of all other dental services.

Have you heard yet about the newest high-tech system for same-day permanent dental crowns, inlays or onlays? Dr. Maddahi says, “The CEREC tooth restoration system gives beautiful, natural all-ceramic restorations – crowns, onlays and inlays. Because we have the system in our office, I am right there with the computer on the tooth and sculpting the tooth from that vantage point. We actually get a better fit than most lab work. The margins are perfectly sculpted.”

The use of digital x-rays greatly reduces the time dental work takes. In three seconds time from the camera clicking, the X-ray image is available on the computer screen. Dr. Maddahi also uses the IntraOral Camera, which is a small pen-shaped camera that also instantly displays images on the screen. This is an important diagnostic tool for the doctor, and also gives the patient the exact same view of what the dentist is viewing.

Digital Cosmetic Imaging also helps to make the process quicker. The computerized split-image displays one-half of the screen as the current smile and the other a digital simulation of the smile after work is done. This allows for an immediate decision by the patient and the dentist.

Dr. Kourosh Maddahi, Beverly Hills cosmetic dentist, performs with speed and perfection in cosmetic dentistry while achieving beautiful and completely natural-looking smiles.

Need a Porcelain Crown? It’s Same Day in Dr. Maddahi’s Beverly Hills Dentist Office

Tuesday, October 6th, 2009

How long are you used to spending to get crown work done? The expected, customary time for a beautiful, natural looking crown is two or three appointments over a few weeks time. Right? Well, not any longer.

The outstanding Los Angeles cosmetic dentist, Dr. Kourosh Maddahi, whose office is in Beverly Hills, will take less than an afternoon to prep, create and place a crown. Dr. Maddahi uses the new high-tech system called CEREC, which produces the highest quality of crowns, onlays and inlays available, and within a few-hour appointment!

It was the recent enhancements of this system that made it significant for Dr. Maddahi to put it into operation in his practice. The latest developments of CEREC include the speed at which it prepares the replacement tooth – only a few minutes. As an equally important new benefit are the increased choice of shades of ceramic material available. Dr. Maddahi can now uphold with confidence the high-level aesthetic work he insists upon.

In addition, this state-of-the-art 3D CAD/CAM (Three Dimensional Computer-aided Design and Computer-aided Manufacturing) system, uses digital dental impressions to ensure the highest level of efficiency and precision, providing error-free, exact margins.

“This CEREC restoration system gives beautiful, natural all-ceramic restorations – crowns, onlays and inlays.”, explains Kourosh Maddahi, DDS. “Because you are sitting right there, looking at the tooth on the computer, and sculpting that tooth from that vantage point, we actually get a better fit than most lab work. The margins are perfectly sculpted.”

Dr. Maddahi must first determine that the appropriate treatment is the CEREC. Then he begins this simple procedure. The tooth is first prepared for the restoration, either an inlay, onlay, or full crown. If needed, this will involve the removal of any decay or weak tissue, as is done in other dental procedures.

Once the tooth or teeth are prepared, a digital optical impression is taken. With CEREC there’s no gummy. Then an image of the tooth and mouth is taken by a specialized digital camera, this takes only minutes.

The digital impression data is then received by the 3D software, and the CEREC system converts this data into a virtual 3D model of the tooth. Dr. Maddahi uses the 3D software to design the restoration, using this 3D model. Within a few minutes the restoration design is transferred to the milling machine, located right in the office.

This mill sculpts the replacement tooth, onlay or crown in about 10 to 20 minutes, using a ceramic block that matches the tooth shade. Then, voila!, an all-ceramic, beautiful, natural restoration is complete. As soon as Dr. Maddahi ensures that the restoration is a perfect fit, and has the correct bite, it is polished and bonded in place.

CEREC is a proven, high-tech dentistry advancement. It’s 20 years of proven developmental success, and millions of restorations worldwide, have proven that CEREC is the high-tech dentistry choice for many reasons. Imagine the convenience of one visit – with no temporaries, plus the beautiful and natural enamel-like material, giving the look and feel of a real tooth.

Superior Los Angeles cosmetic dentist, Dr. Kourosh Maddahi, with his office in Beverly Hills, offers high-tech solutions to all your dental needs.