Blog | Hila Robbins, DMD, Inc.

April 13, 2022April 13, 2022

Biological Dentistry: The Bigger Picture of Dental Health

Dentistry is constantly changing as new techniques, tools, procedures, and practices are implemented in the field. Today’s dentists are trained and equipped as never before to diagnose and treat dental conditions that can impact overall patient health, not only during childhood development but throughout life.

As usual, the focus of this blog post is on patient education. In this blog from the clinic of Hila Robbins, DMD, Inc., we will look at what you can expect from a biological dentist in Los Angeles, CA, versus what we all used to consider as “traditional dentistry.”

Traditionally, dentists were trained to treat the teeth and gums. Today’s dentists, especially those practicing biological dentistry, consider the entire clinical picture of the patient, thanks to ever-expanding knowledge and understanding of how the health of the teeth, gums, and oral cavity (all within the traditional scope of dentistry) interact with the rest of the body, either as a contributing cause, or a possible result of other, traditionally “non-dental” health issues. Today, taking a more comprehensive, biological view (as opposed to the more structural and anatomical approach of traditional dentistry, we know that dental and oral health can impact the health of the cardiovascular system, the immune system, the airway, breathing, and sleep, and more. You might say that today’s biological dentists focus on the big picture—not just the teeth and gums.

Consider, for example, the image at the top of this blog post. What you see is the result of a digital imaging procedure known as CBCT or Cone Beam Computed Tomography. The image presents a computer-generated, three-dimensional (volumetric, not flat) rendering of the cranium (the head) of a child. Using imaging software that combines radiology plus computer graphics capabilities, a properly equipped dentist, such as Dr. Robbins, can see the 3-D anatomy of the entire cranium, including the teeth, jaw, facial bones, bones of the skull, the airway (nasal cavity, throat, trachea), and more. Using imaging software, the dentist can “rotate” the CBCT image in space, look “inside” the image to view anatomy that may otherwise be obscured, and “slice” the 3-D image into discrete sections, from the front, sides, top, and bottom, or anyplace in between.

In plain English, today’s dentist can really see what’s going on, which can help with pinpointing the cause of a particular condition or symptom, to indicate the best treatment, and “predict” likely outcomes.

Using advanced tools, such as CBCT imaging, the biological dentist is able to see the bigger picture of the dental patient’s health, considering the whole body, with the goal to make more accurate and comprehensive diagnoses and offering more personalized treatment plans to patients.

Biological dentistry, as an example, focuses not just
on dental health but also on the patient’s entire physical and emotional wellness. These dentists prevent and treat oral disease by using natural therapies.

March 22, 2022March 22, 2022

Taking the Mystery Out of Biological Dentistry for Children

For busy parents with young children, searching for a children’s dental specialist can be bewildering. There are so many choices: traditional dentists, natural dentists, holistic dentists, and even biological dentistry in Los Angeles, CA. Understanding different treatment approaches can be confusing, but don’t get confused by the terminology.

All specialists in pediatric dentistry fulfill the basic oral health needs of children and are trained to diagnose, treat, and manage young patients—from infancy through adolescence. Some pediatric dentists focus mostly on younger patients; other specialists might accept new patients in their teens. Pediatric dentists are especially well versed in early childhood development, including anatomy and function, and in health conditions and special needs specific to children.

Advancements in the science and technology of healthcare, especially in our understanding of molecular biology and genetics, embryology, toxicology, pharmacology, biophysics, and bioengineering, have led to ever more precise diagnostic tests, imaging methods, biologically more compatible materials, and less invasive—and often, less painful, and faster healing—treatment modalities.

Today, we know much more about the effects of environmental influences—especially chemicals and materials—on early childhood development and long-term health.

Stated simply, a biological dentist is a dentist whose approach to the evaluation, diagnosis, treatment, and management of oral health issues considers the whole body—not just the oral cavity—and considers the latest knowledge of how dental medications, materials, and other environmental influences—in particular ingestible or topical ingredients—and treatment regimens impact both childhood development and health into adulthood.

A biological pediatric dentist purposefully considers the interaction between oral biology, whole-body biology, the environment—inside and outside of the body—and health. They consider when a so-called “natural approach” (which may be non-pharmacological or non-invasive) is most appropriate, based on the individual patient’s case. A biological dentist is also holistic, in the sense that they consider the whole body—not just the mouth—and consider the widest range of appropriate treatments—not just the most “high tech.” Lastly, biological dentists may be traditional, in the sense of following a more conservative—not abrupt, aggressive, or more invasive—approach.

Hila Robbins, DMD, Inc., favors the approach that makes the most sense for your child. This means considering, explaining, and making available treatment options that can help to provide optimal results.

February 21, 2022February 21, 2022

Going to a Pediatric Oral Health Care Dentist Should be Fun

Can you guess why these two super cute little critters look so happy? Because they are going to Dr. Robbins’ office for a visit! Say hello to Dr. Robbins’ two dogs, Jake (the smiling guy on the left) and Lulu (she’s missing her left eye, so she rocks a special haircut). Jake and Lulu are regular visitors to Dr. Robbins’ office, where they love to hang out with everyone and sniff around for treats. Ever considerate, Jake and Lulu are hypoallergenic; they don’t shed.

Visiting the pediatric dentist’s office should be an enjoyable experience for kids and a time for parents and families to feel welcomed. Years ago, when we first opened our office, we had a tiny rescue Yorkie named Holly, who became our very special “therapy dog.” Holly helped kids and parents to relax and feel at home. Dogs can sense how people feel, and Holly would always make kids, and their parents feel calm. It’s the same with Jake and Lulu every time they drop by the office.

You want your child to look forward to their dental appointments so that they can establish a positive attitude about their oral health. Your child’s permanent teeth should arrive in a healthy oral environment that establishes a promising dental future. You can set your child up for good pediatric oral health in the Los Angeles / Beverly Hills / Santa Monica, CA area, with the care of an experienced dentist and parental diligence.

Now that Jake and Lulu have got you smiling, here are a few words of advice from Dr. Robbins:

Learning Good Habits

One of the primary reasons to create healthy pediatric dental and oral care habits is to ensure those practices carry into adulthood. Start early. In infants, establish a routine for gently rubbing and cleaning the gums. Once baby teeth erupt, brush and floss those little teeth, and encourage your child to participate and, eventually, to take responsibility for his or her own brushing, flossing, and rinsing.

Routine Check-Ups

Visiting your pediatric oral health specialist will help your pediatric dentist to identify, follow, and, if advised, treat developmental issues related to dental and oral health. Yes, the pediatric dentist can help your child to stay ahead of dental decay, but that’s just one aspect of good oral care. Establishing a regular pattern of dental visits can help your child to become more comfortable in the dental chair and to know what to expect during regular visits.

Healthy Diet

It’s no secret that food and drinks high in sugar content are hard on teeth (and not good for general health), so limiting your child’s access to excessive sugar will protect and help maintain healthy teeth. Read food and drink labels. Foods and beverages labeled as “all-natural,” “made with real fruit,” or “gluten-free” can be very high in sugar.

December 30, 2021January 25, 2022

3 Common Myths & Misconceptions About Dental Lasers

Laser dentistry leverages the therapeutic benefits of highly energetic and precisely targeted laser light, often used in place of dental drills or cutting instruments. Dental lasers are now commonly used to remove decayed tooth enamel and to cut or remove soft oral tissue. This method can be an excellent treatment option for children of all ages and especially for kids who may not tolerate the sensations (sound, touch, pressure) associated with drilling or bladed instruments.

Dental laser treatment can help make a child’s visit less stressful because it doesn’t include the sensory experience of a dental drill. Although dental laser equipment may emit sounds, there is no high-pitched “whirring” that some young patients find disconcerting. Dental lasers provide Los Angeles, CA, pediatric patients with a treatment that can improve the in-office experience and clinical results.

Because dental lasers are a newer, less familiar type of technology, some misinformation has grown around their use:

It Is Expensive

The cost of laser treatment may be reimbursed by dental insurance providers, just as with conventional drilling. Investing in and operating dental laser equipment can be a significant financial commitment for the dentist, and better-equipped offices may invest in multiple machines. Dentists must also invest in advanced training and certification to use dental lasers safely in their practices. Thus, clinics using dental lasers may reflect the added cost of advanced technology, maintenance (very important!), and education in their fees. Remember, your dentist’s goal is to make your child’s office experience more enjoyable and to ensure that parents see the positive results: Happier, healthier kids!

It’s Painful

Dental laser procedures are usually significantly less painful than more traditional surgical or aesthetic procedures (those involving drills or blades). Reducing fear, stress, and physical discomfort is an important goal, especially with pediatric patients who, for various reasons, may not tolerate traditional treatments well.

Insurance Doesn’t Cover It

Most insurers do not determine whether a treatment is covered based on the method. Unless the procedure is strictly cosmetic, chances are your laser dental treatment is covered.

If laser dentistry sounds like something you would like to explore, talk to your pediatric dentist to see if it is a treatment option that they offer their patients.

November 29, 2021December 22, 2021

Why You Should Consult with an ALF Dentist about an ALF Appliance

This blog post from the office of Hila Robbins, DMD, Inc., will look at why you should consult with a pediatric dentist about an ALF appliance.

Proper development oral cavity is about a lot more than just teeth. It’s about anatomy (including bone and soft tissue) and function (how everything works together as a whole). As a child grows, teeth move, the bones of the cranium remodel and move, the jaw gets bigger, the palate expands, and the airway (the passageway for breathing) opens up. These developmental processes are interrelated in a complex choreography. Sometimes, the body needs a little help to allow for optimal development. That’s where the ALF appliance comes in.

The ALF (Advanced Lightwire Functionals) is a special type of wire appliance designed to facilitate the natural development of the oral cavity and associated structures and gently encourage optimal function. Each ALF is custom designed according to the patient’s unique anatomy and clinical picture.

An ALF dentist in Los Angeles, CA, is specially trained to assess the development of the oral cavity, as this relates to the rest of the body, and to treat patients with an ALF appliance.

When you speak with a dentist who uses ALF treatment, she can explain the value of such a solution. This appliance uses biocompatible, lightweight, flexible wire. It can be removed from the mouth (as advised by the dentist), making it more comfortable and hygienic than some fixed appliances or traditional braces. ALF is not necessarily a replacement for traditional braces. This can be discussed in consultation with the ALF dentist.

ALF treatment follows a multidisciplinary approach, involving the ALF dentist, the pediatrician, and, depending on the patient’s individual needs, the Cranio-osteopath, speech pathologist, oral myofunctional therapist, and/or occupational therapist.

The Hila Robbins, DMD, Inc. clinic is happy to answer your questions and arrange a consultation about the ALF appliance and treatment options…

October 30, 2021December 22, 2021

5 Things To Look For In Pediatric Dental Specialist

Pediatric Dental Specialists in Los Angeles, CA

Finding the right pediatric dental specialist in Los Angeles, CA, can present some challenges. As long as you know what to look for, you can feel confident that your child’s oral health is in good hands.

Insist On Personal Attention to Your Child’s Needs

Every child deserves the personal, one-on-one attention of the doctor, and that’s the way it is at Dr. Robbins’ office. Our team is like a close-knit family, and we want you to feel welcomed, relaxed, and at ease. Dr. Robbins and her staff consider each child’s whole-body health and any special need. At, kid’s dental specialist, a lifetime of good health and habits may begin with the mouth, but it should not end there!.

Look for a Fun and Friendly Experience

Visiting the pediatric dentist’s office for the first time and every time should be a fun, special, and even memorable experience. Dr. Robbins’ office is truly one-of-a-kind; even magical, with beautiful, hand-painted murals, a real, super-fun tree house, a cave to hang out, and a magic tree full of prizes. Parents can join their children on the adventure. Some of our patients, now in college or even out in the working world, still remember fondly their very first visit to our office.

Go Beyond the Reviews

Checking out the reviews for pediatric dental specialists in your area is an excellent start but may only tell part of the story. Read all the reviews, no matter the star rating, to get a sense of the clinic and its service. Look for consistency of comments rather than the outliers.

Ask Other Pediatric Specialists

Ask around. Talk to your pediatrician, speech-language pathologist. Lactation consultant, occupational therapist, etc. What’s their experience? Different pediatric dentists may have different styles, different approaches, and different treatment options—beyond the standard procedures and equipment. Consider the best “fit,” the ideal care philosophy, and environment for your child.

Verify The Doctor’s Status As A Pediatric Dental Specialist

Lots of dentists will see children, but not all dentists are pediatric specialists. Also, not all pediatric dentists have undergone the advanced certification to be board certified. Some specialists, such as Dr. Robbins, have also completed post-doctoral fellowships at leading children’s hospitals and have taken advanced courses in new technologies, such as laser dentistry. Don’t hesitate to ask questions!

September 27, 2021September 30, 2021

What to Look for in a Pediatric Dentist for Children with Special Needs

Finding a dentist for children with special needs in Los Angeles, CA, a specialist who truly recognizes and understands your child’s individual requirements can seem daunting. However, pediatric dentists have spent years perfecting their approach to oral health care for youngsters. Many adults, let alone children, might have their own unique concerns about and reactions to dental visits, which makes ensuring that children with special needs have a positive experience all the more important.

Comfort First

What’s especially important is finding a pediatric dentist who helps you and your child feel comfortable. The dentist should take the time in a personally tailored and reassuring manner to explain what the parent and child can expect during their visit and be prepared to make allowances for special requests.

Listening Skills

Although your dentist knows a lot about oral care, there is always more to learn about each and every child for whom she and her staff provide care. You should find a pediatric dentist for children with special needs who actively and patiently listens to your concerns and offers suggestions and techniques to address them.

Communication

Clear, unpressured, and honest communication with your pediatric dentist about your child’s unique background, health history, and special needs will ensure a positive experience for everyone.

Pediatric dentists have the skill, training, and dedication to providing comprehensive care for each unique child in a compassionate and understanding way. When you find a great pediatric dentist, your child will reap the rewards for years to come.

August 27, 2021September 15, 2021

Integrative Pediatric Dentistry in Los Angeles, CA

Dentistry is a wide, varied, and constantly evolving field with many areas of practice and specialization. The clinic of Hila Robbins, DMD, Inc. utilizes integrative pediatric dentistry in Los Angeles, CA. Not everyone is familiar with this topic, so we’re going to describe what it is in this blog post.

Integrative treatment offered by the pediatric dentist is a comprehensive approach that looks at the connection between dental, oral, craniofacial, and systemic (or “whole body”) development, health, and overall wellbeing. Integrative dentistry considers much more than teeth and gums. It includes a broad range of dental treatments and advanced techniques and combines them with science-based, holistic principles and practices. This delivers a whole-body approach to optimal anatomical, functional, and aesthetic development, dental health, and full-body wellness.

Pediatric dental specialists use their understanding and experience of how a healthy mouth appears, functions, and interacts with the body in relation to the patient’s overall health. Employing an integrative approach, pediatric dentists seek to prevent or reverse dental issues so as to optimize the patient’s whole-body development, health, and wellness.

Because integrative dentistry considers the entire patient, pediatric dentists such as Dr. Robbins frequently collaborate with other healthcare specialists to address patient issues or conditions that may fall outside the traditional scope of dental practice. This may include, for example, referral of certain patients to medical or occupational specialists for further evaluation and multidisciplinary treatment.

We invite you to learn more about this type of dentistry by getting in touch with Hila Robbins, DMD, Inc. Our team will be happy to answer any questions you may have.

July 27, 2021August 2, 2021

How Modern Pediatric Dentistry is Revolutionizing – Pediatric Laser Dentistry in Los Angeles, CA

Pediatric Laser Dentistry Los Angeles CA

Taking your kids to the dentist is not only essential but potentially challenging. It’s normal for some kids to feel a little apprehensive about new or unfamiliar dental procedures, but now, with pediatric laser dentistry in Los Angeles, CA, treatments and procedures aren’t only easier, they’re virtually painless. Technology and evolving dental tools are revolutionizing how dentistry works; faster and more convenient procedures can make appointments to the dentist a lot more manageable for you and your children. You can put your trust in dental offices such as HILA ROBBINS, DMD, INC., for successful laser dentistry.

Benefits of Laser Dentistry

When it comes to dental laser treatment, you’ll find that recovery time is typically faster, and procedures are easier and less invasive. Some treatments can be so quick and painless that patients don’t even need anesthetics. Laser dentistry can increase comfort, reduce anxiety, speed up healing, and more; dental lasers also don’t make l” whirring” noises or create a grinding sensation which can be bothersome to some patients, especially kids. This is especially true for kids who may have a reduced tolerance to certain sounds or sensations.

Laser dentistry has revolutionized dentistry and offers patients real benefits. Contact HILA ROBBINS, DMD, INC., for more information about their dental services.

June 30, 2021July 26, 2021

Pediatric Dentistry: Teach Your Children to Care for Their Smiles

You want your children to grow up with bright and beautiful smiles that shine with confidence. You also want to instill good habits and practices for oral care that will stay with your children for a lifetime. Lead by example by brushing daily with your children. They’ll begin to imitate you so that they leave their dental checkups with a clean bill of health.

It all begins with babies. Even though they have no teeth yet, clean your baby’s gums daily from the time your little one comes home from the hospital. According to best practices for pediatric dentistry in Los Angeles, CA, use a wet washcloth or gauze pad after every feeding and before your baby goes to bed. This keeps nasty bacteria from multiplying in little mouths and negatively impacting health. It’s not a good idea to transfer a washcloth (or other items) from your mouth to your baby’s mouth because that transfers your bacteria into your baby’s mouth.

As your baby’s teeth start to come in, the pain causes babies to fuss. To reduce pain, give your baby a chilled teething ring or baby pain medicine. When your baby’s first tooth comes in fully, or, if your baby (or you!) experience any oral concerns (including breastfeeding issues with your baby, or appearance of oral tissues or irritations that may concern you), bring your baby to our pediatric dentistry in Los Angeles, CA, for an initial check-up or exam. first checkup.

Show your toddlers the right way to brush their teeth and let them practice, but, parents should help to finish the job. That way, you know that your kids’ teeth are clean, and you’re reinforcing good dental hygiene. With twice-daily brushing and regular dental visits, your children can show off their pearly whites in their earliest pictures.