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Dr. Sam S. Kawakami
Dentist
Dr. Sam S. Kawakami is a top Dentist in Lakewood, . With a passion for the field and an unwavering commitment to their specialty, Dr. Sam S. Kawakami is an expert in changing the lives of their patients for the better. Through their designated cause and expertise in the field, Dr. Sam S. Kawakami is a prime example of a true leader in healthcare. As a leader and expert in their field, Dr. Sam S. Kawakami is passionate about enhancing patient quality of life. They embody the values of communication, safety, and trust when dealing directly with patients. In Lakewood, Colorado, Dr. Sam S. Kawakami is a true asset to their field and dedicated to the profession of medicine.
Dr. Sam S. Kawakami
- Lakewood, Colorado
- University of Iowa College of Dentistry
- Accepting new patients
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How do I know if I have an infection in my gums or teeth?
The only way is to see your dentist and have a complete exam.
Is a dry socket an infection?
A dry socket is not always due to an infection. It is the premature loss of the blood clot after an extraction leaving the socket dry and exposed (this usually is painful). If READ MORE
A dry socket is not always due to an infection. It is the premature loss of the blood clot after an extraction leaving the socket dry and exposed (this usually is painful). If there is an odor from the socket, I will usually get the patient on an antibiotic and pack the socket with a medicated dressing (this acts like an artificial blood clot until you can heal and make your own).
Do dental sealants need to be reapplied?
Sometimes they need to be reapplied but not frequently. Even if we can't see the sealant they will leave behind microscopic tags making the enamel more resistant to decay.
Why is my tooth discolored after treatment?
Almost always a tooth turns darker after root canal treatment due to the inner blood supply being removed.
Which is better, root canal or implant?
If there is enough tooth structure to restore with a crown then I believe saving a tooth with a root canal/crown is usually a better option.
Why do dentists use X-rays?
An X-ray can show how bad a fracture is and if it can be reasonably restored or extracted. Yes, I would recommend an X-ray as it can show us things we can't see visually.
Is it possible to floss too often?
I have never in 35 years had a patient over floss. That being said, I have had patients who were overly aggressive on their flossing and cut their gum tissue. I would rather have READ MORE
I have never in 35 years had a patient over floss. That being said, I have had patients who were overly aggressive on their flossing and cut their gum tissue. I would rather have you over floss than under floss!
What do sealants do?
Sealants are unfilled resin that fill in the deep crevices on the biting surface of the tooth. This will help keep bacteria and food from sticking in those areas and help prevent READ MORE
Sealants are unfilled resin that fill in the deep crevices on the biting surface of the tooth. This will help keep bacteria and food from sticking in those areas and help prevent decay.
How can I help my child's fear of the dentist?
Has your child had a bad experience before? If not try to determine the origin of that fear. Also refrain from using words like shot or it doesn't hurt much as that will teach READ MORE
Has your child had a bad experience before? If not try to determine the origin of that fear. Also refrain from using words like shot or it doesn't hurt much as that will teach the child something bad is about to happen. Do not transfer your own fears to your child with visual cues of apprehension. If all else fails make an appointment with a children's dentist {pedodontist}.
What causes cold sores in a person?
Cold sores are caused by a Herpetic virus that is always in the tissue. There are several factors that activates the expression of the virus such as trauma, stress, and or being READ MORE
Cold sores are caused by a Herpetic virus that is always in the tissue. There are several factors that activates the expression of the virus such as trauma, stress, and or being immune suppressed as when you have a cold.
Are there any medicated pastes for gum health?
A new toothpaste called Peridontax seems to be promising but nothing prevents gum problems better than good tooth brushing and flossing and visiting your dentist for regular check READ MORE
A new toothpaste called Peridontax seems to be promising but nothing prevents gum problems better than good tooth brushing and flossing and visiting your dentist for regular check ups.
Is it okay to swallow the gel applied for a mouth ulcer?
Small amounts are harmless and shouldn't be a probloem.
What are the early signs of dental trouble?
The bleeding gums are a sign of gum disease and should be looked at for an evaluation.
Why am I so exhausted after removal of infected root canal molar?
Just the stress of having the tooth removed can drain a person of energy due to the anxiety involved. It does not always indicate spread of the infection. If the fatigue continues, READ MORE
Just the stress of having the tooth removed can drain a person of energy due to the anxiety involved. It does not always indicate spread of the infection. If the fatigue continues, seek the advice of your physician.
At what age can my little one start brushing her teeth on her own?
I think you are doing it right by checking how she is brushing and thorough. Each child may be different in their dexterity but I like when a child is engaged in caring for their READ MORE
I think you are doing it right by checking how she is brushing and thorough. Each child may be different in their dexterity but I like when a child is engaged in caring for their own dental health. Just make sure it is done well before you let them go off on their own.
For small kids how frequent should dentist visits be?
I would recommend 6 month visits so that nothing gets out of hand decay wise. Also things change in a child's mouth in 6 months that you may need to be aware of. Getting a child READ MORE
I would recommend 6 month visits so that nothing gets out of hand decay wise. Also things change in a child's mouth in 6 months that you may need to be aware of. Getting a child in a routine of seeing a dentist can also be a good way to lessen any fears in the future for that child and parent.
Are electric toothbrushes any better for the teeth?
Yes, they are more efficient and can brush longer without fatigue to your hands.
What is the medication that the dentist will use as an anesthesia before my root canal?
The most common anesthetic is lidocaine with epinephrine. There are other types of "caines" if the licocaine is ineffective. Also, there may be other anesthetic techniques the READ MORE
The most common anesthetic is lidocaine with epinephrine. There are other types of "caines" if the licocaine is ineffective. Also, there may be other anesthetic techniques the dentist may use for effective anesthesia. Just let the doctor know what you are feeling.
My daughter chipped her front two teeth. What are our options?
Minor chips can be bonded with a tooth colored material to restore esthetics. If very minor than an option is to do nothing. Most likely a crown or veneer won't be done for about READ MORE
Minor chips can be bonded with a tooth colored material to restore esthetics. If very minor than an option is to do nothing. Most likely a crown or veneer won't be done for about 10 years.
Why are my gums swollen?
The swelling and tenderness may be a symptom of an infection of the gum or tooth or both. Should see your dentist ASAP.
