One of the great joys in my practice is seeing families—grandparents, parents, and kids—all come through our doors. Every age has its own story, and every stage of life adds a new chapter, and I've been privileged to listen. With the right care, your smile can thrive at every stage. Let's walk through what every […]
If you think what happens in your mouth stays in your mouth—think again. As a dentist in West LA, I'm constantly reminded that the mouth isn't just where digestion starts or where you flash your smile. It's a gateway to the rest of your body—and it has secrets to tell. Your gums, your tongue, your teeth, […]
If your tongue could talk, it would tell you much more than just how your food tastes. As a dentist in West Los Angeles, CA, I often ask patients to stick out their tongue—not because I'm being rude, but because the tongue can reveal surprising clues about your health. And let's face it, we all look […]
Let’s talk about something that sounds minor but affects millions—and not in a good way: dry mouth. Whether it feels like sandpaper in the morning or a constant cottonmouth throughout the day, this is more than a nuisance. As your dentist in Los Angeles, CA, I see the damage it causes—cavities, cracked teeth, bad breath—and often, […]
Let's face it—bad breath is something no one wants to talk about, but almost everyone worries about it. Whether you're gearing up for a job interview, a first date, or a tender moment with someone you love, offensive breath can feel like a deal breaker. But what most people don't realize is that bad breath […]
You know the feeling. A tiny sore starts brewing inside your mouth; before you know it, every sip of coffee or bite of a sandwich feels like you’re chewing glass. Canker sores—those small, painful ulcers that show up inside your cheeks, on your lips, or under your tongue—might be harmless, but they’re anything but forgettable. Let’s unpack what they are, what […]
Cracked teeth are sneaky. They don't always announce themselves with a bang. Sometimes, they whisper—showing up as a mild twinge when you bite down or drink something cold. Other times, they shout—with a sharp pain that makes you wince and wonder what just happened. Either way, they deserve attention. Let's talk about what causes cracked […]
Handle With Care: A Gentle Guide to Caring for Your Restorations Restorative dentistry isn’t just about fixing what’s broken—it’s about preserving what’s still remains. When I place a restoration—whether it’s a filling, crown, bridge, or implant—my goal is always the same: long-term health, comfort, and confidence. Every restoration deserves thoughtful design, precise placement, and ongoing […]
Toothache SOS: What to Do the Moment Pain Strikes — From Home Relief to Emergency Room Visits Everything You Need to Know to Stay Calm, Stay Smart, and Get the Right Help Fast 1. Why This Guide Matters I’ve been practicing dentistry for decades, and if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that toothaches have […]
Beyond Pretty: What It Really Takes to Get a Better Smile By Dr. Dean Carlston 1. 'I Want a Better Smile' — What That Really Means When a patient sits down and tells me, 'I want a better smile,' I hear more than just a request for white teeth. What I really hear is, 'I […]