Dentist in Laguna Niguel

Dr. Mark A. Cruz is a dentist and has answered some of the common questions Bizymoms visitors have about Dental Care.


Q. How quickly will a person be able to complete cosmetic dentistry treatment?

A. The amount of time to complete treatment depends on the patients goals, expectations and specific diagnoses. Unfortunately, there is no short, honest answer.

Q. How do dental sealants work?

A. Dental sealants work by sealing the pits and grooves on the tooth that are most vulnerable to tooth decay. This bonded "plastic" barrier prevents the bacteria/plaque from starting the decay process. It is not necessary on all teeth and typically is placed on the first and second permanent molars within the first year of their presence in the mouth.

Q. What is TMJ?

A. TMJ is the abbreviation for Tempero-mandibular joint. It is a misnomer that this is a disease. The correct term is TMD or temporo-mandibular dysfunction/disease. It is a general term to describe a number of different conditions that may involve either the TMJ(s), associated muscles, ligaments etc. There are many risk factors that contribute to the various conditions found with TMD. The most important thing to remember when assessing this condition is to have an appropriate, accurate diagnoses. Treatment varies depending on the diagnosis.

Q. What are Dental Implants?

A. Dental implants are titanium based structures placed in the jaw to replace lost or diseased teeth. Current evidence suggests a success rate of over 95% depending on many factors. Implants were first introduced to the U.S. in 1985 by P.I. Branemark, MD after close to 30 years of research and development in Europe.

Q. What are Dental Implants Used For?

A. Dental implants are used to replace individual teeth, support fixed or removable prostheses (bridges, dentures), provide orthodontic anchorage (to help move teeth with braces) and maxillo-facial prostheses (prosthetic eyes, ears etc.) that have been lost or damaged due to cancer, trauma etc.

Q. What Are the Benefits of Dental Implants?

A. The benefits of dental implants pertain to the enhancement of the quality of life for those individuals who have lost or will lose teeth or related structures. They have been a success and are a predictable alternative to removable dentures or the improvement of the stability of removable dentures. Implants often are the most conservative replacement of missing teeth where more teeth might otherwise be involved.

Q. How to contact Dr. Cruz if we have further questions?    

A.
32241 Crown Valley Parkway, Suite 200 Monarch Beach CA 92629-3346
Phone        : (949) 661-1006
Fax        : (949) 661-9454
E-mail        : MarkCruz@MarkACruzDDS.com
Website    : MarkACruzDDS.com