Clarissa Esparza, D.D.S.

12/04/2025

‘tis the season 🎄


11/22/2025

WHAT CAUSES TOOTH DECAY?

It develops when plaque bacteria digest sugars and produce acids, repeatedly attacking enamel. High sugar diets, poor brushing, frequent snacking, dry mouth, and low fluoride exposure significantly increase the risk.

11/14/2025

Why a Toothache Can Feel Almost Unbearable

There’s a simple anatomical reason for it: every tooth is a living structure.
At the center lies the dental pulp, containing nerves and blood vessels, all enclosed beneath hard layers of dentin and enamel. When decay, a crack, or an infection reaches that inner core, the nerve gets trapped inside a rigid space with zero room to expand.

As inflammation builds, the pressure inside the tooth rises and squeezes the nerve fibers, triggering sharp, persistent pain that can radiate into the jaw, ear, or even the head.
This is why regular painkillers often fail to provide full relief — the source of the problem isn’t on the surface, it’s deep inside the tooth.

And it’s not only cavities that can set this off. A dental abscess, nerve exposure from wear, or inflammation in the tissues around the root can lead to the same severe pain response.
The mouth has limited ways to signal trouble, and pain is its most direct warning.

That’s why a toothache should never be ignored. The more treatment is delayed, the deeper an infection can spread, even allowing bacteria to enter the bloodstream in some cases.
So the next time a tooth starts hurting, don’t rely on painkillers to mask it.
Your body is sending a message… and your teeth need attention before the situation worsens.

Note : This information is educational and academic in nature. It is not a medical consultation. If you’re experiencing pain or concerns, consult a trusted healthcare professional.

10/25/2025

Wear those night guards !

10/24/2025

Have a great weekend!

10/23/2025

Today’s lesson

08/26/2025

🦠Did you know cavities can be contagious?🦷

Cavities aren’t just about sugar. They’re caused by bacteria. And yes — those bacteria can actually spread from one person to another.

Everyday habits like kissing, sharing spoons, straws, or even putting a baby’s pacifier in the mouth can pass cavity-causing bacteria. The main culprit is Streptococcus mutans, which stick to teeth and produces acids that damage enamel.

Saliva is full of bacteria — some good, some harmful. When two people share saliva, the cavity-causing bacteria hitch a ride in those tiny droplets. Once they reach a new mouth, they attach to the tooth surface, especially where plaque already exists. If sugars are present, these bacteria quickly start producing acid, which weakens enamel and leads to cavities over time.

👶 Babies and young children are most vulnerable. Their teeth are still developing, and once these bacteria settle in, the risk of early cavities skyrockets. That’s why parents with untreated tooth decay often see their kids struggle with cavities too.

😬 Adults can spread it as well, but strong habits like daily brushing, flossing, less sugar, and regular dental visits make a big difference. The bacteria may transfer — but they don’t stand a chance if your mouth is protected.

08/18/2025

08/13/2025

Just like a tree, a tooth has deep roots that keep it strong — and when those roots weaken, the whole structure is at risk. 🌳🦷

The beauty of a smile begins where most people never look — beneath the gumline. A tree draws life from its roots buried deep in the soil. Similarly, your teeth are anchored by the gums and jawbone hidden beneath the surface. These unseen foundations are what keep your smile stable, functional, and healthy.

But just as a tree can slowly wither when its roots are damaged, teeth can silently lose their strength when gum disease sets in. Plaque buildup, inflammation, and untreated infections erode the supporting bone and tissue, eventually leading to tooth loss — often without pain until it’s too late.

The good news? Strong roots can be preserved for life. Daily brushing and flossing remove the “decay-causing pests,” while regular professional cleanings stop problems before they spread. Nourish your teeth’s roots with consistent care, and they’ll stand tall — just like a healthy tree in a thriving forest.

08/06/2025

The earlier, the cheaper. The later, the costlier. 🦷💲

07/22/2025

Most people don’t realize that cavities can actually spread from one person to another. While cavities themselves aren’t contagious, the bacteria responsible for them—especially Streptococcus mutans—can be transmitted through saliva. That means simple acts like kissing, sharing spoons or forks, or even blowing on a baby’s food can transfer these harmful bacteria from one mouth to another.

Once these bacteria colonize a new mouth, they begin to feed on sugars from food and produce acids that damage the tooth enamel, leading to cavities over time. This is especially important in young children, whose enamel is softer and more vulnerable. Parents, caregivers, and partners should be aware that oral hygiene affects not just themselves, but their loved ones too.

The best way to prevent this transmission is to maintain good oral hygiene, limit sugary foods, and avoid sharing utensils or toothbrushes. Regular dental checkups and cleanings also help reduce bacterial load and prevent decay. A healthy mouth is not only about brushing—it's about protecting those around you as well.

07/20/2025

The longer treatment is delayed, the more invasive and expensive it becomes.⏰💸

Tooth decay begins silently. In the earliest stage, you may not see or feel anything. But beneath the surface, enamel is already demineralizing due to acids from plaque bacteria. At this stage, a simple fluoride treatment can stop and even reverse the damage—saving your tooth and avoiding future pain.

As decay progresses, it breaks through the enamel into the dentin, leading to visible cavities. This requires a filling. Delay further, and the decay may reach the pulp, needing root canal treatment and a crown. In worst cases, the tooth becomes unsalvageable, needing extraction and replacement with an implant or bridge—both costly and time-intensive.

Early dental visits, regular check-ups, and preventive care are the smartest ways to protect both your teeth and your wallet.