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Prosthodontics

Dr. Rebecca Castaneda of San Francisco owns and operates Aesthetika, a dental spa that includes cosmetic procedures and prosthodontics, among other treatments. Dr. Castaneda learned extensively about prosthodontics at the University of California, San Francisco, after she completed her initial training in Houston.

[Exceptional Cosmetic Dentist in San Francisco, CA - Dr. Rebecca Castaneda]


In 2011, National Prosthodontics Awareness Week occurred from April 3 to April 9. Prosthodontics includes dentures, veneers, teeth whitening, crowns, and dental implants. The discipline covers functional and appearance-oriented aspects of dental care. Patients who require prosthodontic treatment often have lost teeth. The services provided by prosthodontists can frequently address this sort of issue and result in more attractive smiles. In addition, patients with severely damaged teeth can benefit from restorative dental care offered by these professionals with advanced expertise.

To become a prosthodontist, a dentist must finish another 2 to 3 years of training following dental school. The additional training includes studying current research related to the field, treating patients at a qualified university or hospital, attending lectures, and conducting laboratory work.

The American College of Prosthodontists recommends patients seek out such a specialist if they desire a more attractive grin, have interest in obtaining dental implants, lack one or more teeth, or wear dentures or partial dentures. In addition to treating patients with tooth decay, prosthodontists can also assist those with cleft palates or congenital or developmental defects, which may include underdeveloped teeth. These dentists can also help patients who grind their teeth at night, which can lead to damage of the teeth and temporomandibular joint.

If you want to improve your smile and you live in the San Francisco area, consider a visit to the Aesthetika Dental Center. For more details about the dentist and her practice, visit www.aesthetika.net.

Managing TMJ Symptoms

by Dr. Rebecca Castaneda

Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJ) is a common disorder characterized by inflammation of the temporomandibular joint, located where your jaw connects to the skull below your ear. TMJ symptoms include jaw clicking and popping, ear and jaw aches, pain while chewing, headaches, and ringing in the ears.

TMJ can occur on one or both sides of the jaw and has many causes including trauma, tooth grinding (also known as bruxism), jaw misalignment, gum chewing, nail biting, and degenerative changes. If you experience TMJ symptoms, you should immediately seek advice from a qualified dentist who can recommend courses of treatment ranging from symptom alleviation to surgery. In the meantime, you can try some of these techniques to help control your pain.

1. Pay attention to when you clench your jaw. Clenching is a common reaction to stressful situations, so learn to relax the jaw and remember: “Lips together, teeth apart”.

2. If you notice swelling in your jaw, wear an ice pack for 10 minutes to reduce inflammation. For chronic inflammation, you can alternate between ice and heat packs.

3. Choose soft foods that are easy to chew.

4. Don’t chew gum.

5. Exercise regularly to reduce pain and release tension.

6. Avoid opening your mouth wide.

7. Wear a night guard, avoid the store-bought sports guards.

For additional information on managing TMJ symptoms or for information on other dental topics, visit Dr. Rebecca Castaneda at www.aesthetika.net.