Blog | Dentist of Cerritos

Prevention

Five everyday habits that protect your enamel

Enamel doesn’t grow back — so protecting it is the whole game. Wait 30 minutes to brush after acidic food or drinks, when enamel is temporarily softened. Use a soft-bristled brush and light pressure; scrubbing harder doesn’t clean better. Sip water after coffee, wine, or citrus to rinse acids away. Chew sugar-free gum to boost saliva, your mouth’s natural defense. And if you wake with a sore jaw, ask us about grinding — a night guard can save years of wear.

A couple weighing their orthodontic options

Orthodontics

Is Invisalign® right for you?

Clear aligners handle far more than they used to — crowding, gaps, and many bite issues — but the honest answer depends on your case. Great candidates can commit to 20–22 hours of daily wear and are done growing, though teen options exist. Complex rotations or severe bite problems sometimes still favor braces. The good news: a quick digital scan shows you a preview of your projected result before you commit to anything.

A patient being seen promptly in the dental chair

Emergencies

Toothache? Do this before you reach our office

First, call us — emergencies get same-day priority. While you wait: rinse with warm salt water and gently floss around the tooth, since trapped food is a surprisingly common culprit. Use a cold compress outside the cheek for swelling, and over-the-counter pain relief as directed. Don’t place aspirin against the gum — it burns tissue. If a tooth is knocked out, keep it moist in milk and get here within the hour if you can.

New posts are on the way — check back soon, or ask us your question at your next visit.

Smile Smarts Blog

Five everyday habits that protect your enamel

Is Invisalign® right for you?

Toothache? Do this before you reach our office

Have a question about your smile?