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By drlevi
July 25, 2011
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Want To Learn More About Our Recent Blog Topics? Here Are A Few Related Links

 

Find out more about what general dentists and cosmetic dentists practice as well as what a periodontitis is on these informative webpages and articles. Call (248) 327-0313 for further information.

Read up on some dental facts for kidson this page from ADHA.org

To learn more about cosmetic dentistry, read this article from WebMD.com.

Read this FAQ from ADA.org to get some quick facts on periodontitis.

Find out how a pediatric dentist cares for younger teethon this page from AAPD.org.

See what periodontitis is and how it affects yourteeth and gumson this page from the Mayo Clinic.

Call Southfield Family Dental Centerfor all of your general or cosmetic dentistry needs!

Understanding the Difference between General Dentistry and Cosmetic Dentistry

Both Dr Levi and Dr. Krivichkin are general dentist and  specialize in cosmetic dentistry services. In fact, some of the same procedures are used in both.    They have trained with the most reknowned specialists in the country. So, what is the difference between general dentistry and cosmetic dentistry?  Read on to find out: 

General Dentistry

General dentists treat painful, irritated, or damaged teeth in the same way a doctor cares for the body, identifying and solving oral problems. General dentists help to educate their patients about oral healthand hygiene, as well as offering cleaning services, necessary procedures such as the prevention and treatment of tooth- and gum-related diseases, and repairs to cavities or damaged teeth. Family dentists can help treat people across a span of ages, from pediatric dentistryto reconstructive services for those who have suffered tooth loss.

Cosmetic Procedures

Cosmetic dentistry is geared towards the cosmetic enhancementof someone’s smile. Cosmetic dentistry and general dentistry are similar in terms of restoration, where implants or other services help to offer a patient a full and bright smile. Cosmetic dentists also offer teeth whitening services and other procedures that help improve the appearance of teeth. Crooked teeth or teeth that have been chipped and cracked can be improved or repaired by a cosmetic dentist in Southfield.

A major advantage of having your teeth treated by a cosmetic dentist is the confidence boost you can receive from having a complete and white smile. No matter your age or condition, it’s important to keep regular appointments with your local dentist for the best smile possible.

Southfield Family Dental Centeroffers both cosmetic and general dentistry services so that your whole family can have the brightest and healthiest smiles around. Our Southfield orthodontic specialist can also help realign teeth with innovative solutions. Call our main office at (248) 569-6304 or visit our websiteto learn more today.

By drlevi
June 21, 2011
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Dentist Fears

According to Wiki, dentist fear is associated with anxiety or a phobia. This phobia had traditionally been defined as both irrational and exaggerated. But, some studies have shown that this is not the case.

While controversy exists with whether dental fear is "irrational", as it is seen to be most commonly caused by previous bad experiences, there are subtypes of dental phobia. For example "fear of dentists" versus "fear of specific dental procedures" and needle phobia  are considered subtypes of dental phobia, and not at all irrational.

Currently, dental fear is defined as an extreme and persistent fear which involves dentists, dental procedures, a specific fear of needles, teeth, or objects and situations which remind the individual of the phobic situation. Not surprisingly, the dentist's drill is often a major factor in dentist fears. Even thinking or hearing about going to the dentist causes psychological distress for many people. Unfortunately, children are also influenced by their parents' fears and attitudes towards dental treatment - so the phobia continues.

Experiencing dentist fears often results in people avoiding the dentist until a physical problem becomes too overwhelming to handle, I want to provide you with information to help manage this anxiety.

Please keep in mind that this information is offered as suggestions. They are not being provided as professional medical advice. If you experience dentist fears which effects your day to day functions (e.g., you cannot sleep at night due to an upcoming dental visit), please seek the assistance and guidance from a licensed professional.

Suggestions for Handling Den With dentistry's many advances, diagnosis and treatment gets more                                                                      sophisticated and comfortable all the time and some of us may be worrying  unnecessarily.                                                                                 

     But, if you do have anxiety, below are some suggestions on  techniques to use to overcome dental anxiety.

  • Share your anxiety- speak to the dentist and the dental staff. Getting your concerns out in the open will help your dentist adapt the treatment to your needs.
  • Try to choose a timefor your dental visit when you're less likely to be rushed or under pressure. For some people, that may be a Saturday or an early morning appointment.
  • If the sound of the drill bothers you, bring a portable audio player and headset so you can listen to your favorite music. As you listen to the music, try visualizing yourself relaxing on a warm beach or boat
 

 

By drlevi
May 26, 2011
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Abscessed Teeth

Have a major toothache with throbbing pain and not sure what is causing it? It could be an abscessed tooth.

You may be asking yourself, "What is an abscessed tooth?" Well, it is an infected tooth, usually caused by severe tooth decay. The infection can happen either at the root of the tooth or between the gums and the tooth. This infection is usually in the form of a pus-filled sac.

An abscess at the root can also be caused by injury to a tooth, such as a major blow to the tooth or jaw. An abscess between a tooth and gum usually happens when bacteria and food become trapped in an area that is hard to clean.

When decay reaches the inside or pulp of a tooth, which contains the nerves and blood supply, the pulp dies. The infection in the pulp spreads from the tip of the root to the surrounding bone.

Symptoms of an Abscessed Tooth:

  • A constant ache.
  • Sensitivity to heat and cold.
  • Throbbing, especially if it occurs with no clear cause and is unrelated to biting or chewing.
  • Pain when biting or chewing.
  • Redness and swelling of the gums.
  • Tender glands in the neck.
  • Swollen face.
  • A bad taste in your mouth.
  • Unpleasant drainage.
  • An open, draining sore on the side of the gum.

How Does Your Dentist Tell if You Have an Abscessed Tooth?

To determine if you have a dental abscess, your dentist will examine your teeth and usually take X-rays to check for any disease.

The dentist may use ice or an electric tester to check the health of a tooth. Also, a probe may be used to tell if an infected pocket has formed in your gums. If an abscess exists, the probe may release some of the pressure from built-up infection, but the pocket will have to be fully cleaned out to remove pus and debris.

This kind of abscess is usually treated by first draining the infection, then thoroughly cleaning the area. The dentist then smoothes out the root surfaces of the tooth to promote healing and to help keep the infection from recurring. Before doing this procedure, your dentist may inject a painkiller to numb the gum and tooth.

If an abscess is at the root of a tooth, root canal therapy is usually recommended. A general dentist or an endodontist (a specialist in this therapy) may perform a root canal.

Don't Ignore an Abscess

The symptoms and effects from an abscessed root will not go away until it is treated. An infection that spreads from the tip of the root builds up pressure and destroys the surrounding bone. This destruction continues until the pressure is released by root canal therapy, or until the infection destroys enough bone so that it can drain out near the tooth, creating a gumboil on the tissue.

An abscess between the gums and a tooth will normally heal soon after the abscess has been drained and the root surfaces cleaned. However, the abscess may recur if the area is not kept clean. Your dentist may recommend the use of special tools to make cleaning these areas easier.

Prevention is the Best Course

The best way to prevent an abscess is to visit your dentist twice a year. At these appointments, your dentist and dental hygienist will examine your teeth and mouth and check for any decay between the teeth and evaluate the health of your entire mouth.

 

Source: Michigan Dental Association

The signs and symptoms of many potentially life-threatening diseases appear in the mouth first.  Some of these diseases include heart disease, diabetes, and oral cancer.

Heart Disease - Numerous research studies have shown a connection between heart disease and key bacteria in periodontal disease.  While research continues, dental hygienists are instrumental in identifying the presence and extent of the periodontal infection and work with patients to both treat the existing problems and prevent future complications.

Diabetes - Periodontal disease has long been considered a major complication of diabetes. After a physician has made a conclusive diagnosis, it is critical that patients with diabetes receive professional oral health care regularly and follow a customized home-care routine to help keep their blood sugar levels in check.

Oral Cancer - This is one of the most serious diseases found in the mouth.  Often curable in its early stages, oral cancers are a major cause of death in the Unites States according to the National Cancer Institute.  

Dental hygienists are preventitive oral health professionals, licensed in dental hygiene, who specialize in the prevention and treatment of oral diseases in order to protect total body health.  Be sure to stay on-track with your regularly scheduled hygiene appointments.

  Source: ADHA.org





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Patient Reviews

Have been a patient of Dr. Oleg for more than 10 years and he is excellent! Painless procedures, knowledgeable staff, convenient office location. Never had to wait for longer than 15 minutes to get seated.

Soccer Dad Mark

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Dear Dr. Levi and Dr. Oleg,

I would like to thank you both for allowing me to shadow at Southfield Family Dental Center. Every day I looked forward to it because I knew that I would be surrounded by genuine and good spirited people. The staff made me feel comfortable and at ease during my entire experience. As a patient, I witnessed the positive and professional atmosphere and I knew that it would be the perfect place for me to learn more about the dental field. During my experience, I absorbed every piece of information and advice given to me. The outstanding oral health care provided b SFDC in addition to its hospitable environment is characteristics I seek to have in my own practice. Both of you exemplify and embody true dental professionals and I cannot thank you enough for my experience. I am a proud patient of SFDC but more so an aspiring dentist who knows what it means to provide truly outstanding dental care. Once again, thank you for the opportunity and jumpstarting my journey to become a future D.D.S.!!!

Tatum

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I am seeing a doctor Dr. Oleg. I'm having a bridge made and I would refer, as a matter of fact I have sent three or four people here so far. The staff is very professional, everybody is very polite, accommodating and I will continue referring people to this center. One thing I will say is until everything is right they'll keep doing it over and over and over. In other words, they strive for perfection and I love that. They made sure I have a beautiful smile, thank you so much!

Belinda McNeill - Southfield, MI

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I am a new patient of Dr. Oleg at the Southfield Family Dental Center in Southfield, Michigan and I just want to say Dr. Oleg you did a wonderful job on me. Your assistant Laura was awesome! It must have been the most, the best experience I've ever had at a dentist's office. So I appreciate you so much for calming my nerves and just doing my root canal. The whole thing, other than coming back to get my final exam, it was wonderful, thank you. Kellie, your assistant up here in the front desk area, she's awesome also. Thank you for working with me, I appreciate you guys and you still have a new patient, and I will be referring new customers/patients to you. Thank you!

Anita Gordon - Southfield, MI

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I love the Southfield Family Dental Center because I've had a wonderful experience with Dr. Levi and his staff. They are efficient, they're honest, and they're thorough and I've been blessed with a beautiful smile!

Beverly Jennings - Harrison Township, MI

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I am so pleased to give this testimonial for Dr. Oleg and the Southfield Family Dental Center. They've been supportive to me throughout my whole dental experience. I do not wait if I have an appointment; they are prompt and courteous from the front desk all the way to the dentist. I really appreciate their service and I'll be coming here forever. As a matter of fact, I'm going to recommend that my sister come here. Thank you!

Effie Martin - Southfield, MI

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I attend Southfield Family Dental. My doctor's name is Dr. Levi and if you want a pretty smile and everything to go right, please you can always come to him at Southfield Family Dental Center in Southfield, Michigan. I love him and if you want anything in a smile and your teeth and everything to be right, you can always come see him.

Monica McCourt - Detroit, MI

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I am very, very pleased with the good customer service coming from Southfield Family Dental Center. I love the emergency walk-ins and just having a doctor or a dentist on hand. What I really loved was the attitude of staff when I walked in on an emergency basis on the eve of Thanksgiving. Most people are trying to get out of the office but they did not have the attitude of pushing me out and trying to rush me through or rush me in so that was very appreciative. But as well as today, the office handling of the staff, they don't rush you off the phone and Miss Kellie was very helpful in explaining my fee and this is very important to me as a patient than getting surprises. She went through the fees as well as what exact tooth I need work on, all of those things together make a great dentist to me and I have been searching for this dentist for a number of years. So I'm already very satisfied that me and my family are going there and I'm definitely going to refer other people. Thank you again for the good customer service that makes a difference to me when paying out the money as well so two thumbs up Southfield Family Dental Center - excellent customer service, please keep it up!

Jody Matthews - Southfield, MI

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I'm here at Dr. Oleg's dental office to share my testimony regarding my experience here. I came to the office about four or five months ago and I was a new patient and I completed a form that asked me the question, "did I like my smile?" and I said no and Dr. Oleg asked me why and when I smiled I had a broken tooth in the front of my mouth that caused me not to like my smile. When he asked me that question and I smiled I began to cry and Dr. Oleg told me it was fine, it was going to be okay and that he was going to help me.

Tilly Bond

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Thank you, thank you, thank you. What a difference a year makes. I am back to chewing my food properly and eating what I want. I wanted to thank both of you again for your guidance and help on my recent visits. It was truly a wonderful experience and your personal attention insured an outstanding result. Everything went better than I ever expected. Your staff went over and above with very personal outstanding service.

C. Forris

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This is Chad Ross, Kari Ross's husband. I just wanted to send a quick email and update to Dr. Levi about Kari. Due to the condition of Kari's teeth many years ago she had lost interest in work, school and socializing. But now things are great. I just wanted once again to say thank you! Since your help our lives have changed dramatically. I was given an offer from my country to transfer to Asia. We are now living in Singapore. If this would have been 3 years ago, Kari would have never agreed , but with your help she was confident and comfortable to make the commitment. Now here in Asia Kari is back to school full time to complete her degree. So again thank you for all of your help, it truly has changed our lives in ways I cannot explain!!

C. Ross

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I wanted to take time to properly Thank you for your hard work and dedication. I appreciate you going the extra mile and for your sincere concern for your patients. I am terrified of dental work and have had many unpleasant experiences. I was very relaxed and confident in your chair and trusted that I would not have to worry about being in any pain. I am your client for life and will be referring everyone I know or come to know about your service. Your assistants are just as wonderful, thanks again!

R. Alfano

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I recently had to have an emergency root canal and was referred to Dr. Levi and Dr. Oleg. Keep in mind I'm TERRIFIED of the dentist office. I've had so many horrific experiences to count.

From the moment I walked in I felt at ease. The staff was so accommodating and reassuring. They could see the fear in my eyes and they did everything they could to put my mind at ease. Then the procedure began and Dr. Levi was so compassionate and caring. He explained everything they were doing and walked me through the process. There was absolutely no pain that day or the next. I had my follow up appointment with Dr. Oleg and the experience once ago was as delightful as it could be for having a root canal. Very caring and always checking into make sure I wasn't feeling any pain. And their dental assistants were just the icing on the cake. These ladies, especially Laura, make your experience so calming.

These two dentists have really begun to make me change my mind about this line of work. I don't have sleepless nights anymore the night before going to the dentist!

Aimee S. - Royal Oak, MI

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Dr. Levi is awsome!!!! I was referred to him by my daughter, she spoke highly of him and his staff and assured me that I would be in really great hands with Dr. Levi, I trust her judgement totally and to my delight she was absolutely right. My initial plan was to start the implant process for several missing teeth, but unfortunately I was laid off from my job and was unable to afford the procedure at that time, Dr. Levi talked to me about getting a partial which I was totally against after a very bad experience with a partial years ago, after giving it consideration and seeing how the material used for partials have changed so much, I gave it a try and to my surprise I am totally satisfied with my new partial, of course I have to get used to it and adjusted, but overall I am happy with my decision thanks to Dr. Levi. I still plan on going forward with my implants at a later date, but for now I am content and feel confident with my new smile.

T. Douglas - Sep 29, 2011

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Dr. Levi and Dr. Oleg are the bomb! They have transformed my smile and I'm so grateful. I never imagined my teeth could look so great, but they did it. They are artists as far as I'm concerned. Thank you Doctors for changing my life!

Estee - Sep 2, 2011

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Going to the dentist is something everyone dreads. However, Dr. Levi and Dr. Oleg are an absolute pleasure. They are extremely personable and take their patients individual needs into consideration when making dental decisions. My husband in one of Dr. Levi's original patients. My children and I have been going for the past 12 years. The hygienists and other staff are terrific. Great facility.

Ruth ‎ - Aug 31, 2011

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Dr. Levi and Dr. Oleg are the best!! They are first class dentist and great guys. They make it very easy to go to the dentist and I would recommend them to everyone! Also the staff at the office are extremely professional and very helpful with everything you need.

Ron - Aug 30, 2011

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I have been receiving dental services from Southfield Dental for more than ten years. I have had my teeth cleaned,bridge work, root canals, and crowns done. I have been very pleased with all of the services that I have received at this office. Margaret -August 29,2011

Margaret - Aug 29, 2011

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Dr. Oleg is a great dentist. He knows his stuff and at the end of each visit I always know that I am being taken care of by a true professional. The equipment at the Southfield Family Dental Center is state of the art and all the hygienists that I have encountered during my visits are a pleasure to deal with as well. Definitely worth the extended drive I make from White Lake for my oral care

Alexander ‎ - Aug 29, 2011

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Dr. Levi, Dr. Oleg and Dr. El are the best! I have been a patient of Southfield Family Dental Center for about 6 years now and I just don't see myself going anywhere else for my dental care. The dental expertise just doesn't compare to other dental offices. I had some really bad dental experiences in my lifetime and was afraid of everything. These three dentists have calmed my fears. They understand the apprehension and fears of their patients and do all they can to ensure we are comfortable. My sister brings her kids from Kentucky and my mom comes from Tennessee to see my wonderful dentist. My other sister drives about 45 minutes to see our dentists and my niece and nephew really like coming to see Dr. Oleg. I think that speaks volumes. My family loves Southfield Family Dental Center!

Mary Kae ‎ - Aug 26, 2011

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I have to say that Southfield Family Dental is one of the best places to get dental work! I was referred by my Mother and she said they were the best and they are! Compared to three wisdom tooth extractions at another dental office (which were extremely painful and it was quite traumatic :/ ) my last wisdom tooth (that was lying sideways) was extracted by Dr. El at SFDC and I didn't feel anything! Dr. Oleg assured me that everything would be fine...or else lol and as he promised, it was! Dr. Oleg makes sure you're comfortable and the staff are some of the best that I've met in my life! After being serviced for only a month, they feel like family already :) Just to name a few, Michelle, Carla, Christy, Brandon and Kelly are awesome! They are so helpful, caring, and personable. I know that I'm in great hands when I'm there.In addition, Dr ...

Jessica - Aug 26, 2011

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Southfield Family is the best, they helped me get over my fear of coming to the dentist. Dr. Oleg is very caring and patient, I am so happy to have him for my Dentist. The staff is great also, very professional and nice. If you want great dental work done go to Southfield Family Dental Center.

 

Tiffany ‎ - Aug 26, 2011

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I love my dentist! Dr. Oleg is my dentist at Southfield Family Dental Center and he is great! I'm not an easy patient to deal with because I have a low tolerance to pain, but he has been gentle and understanding. He makes me feel comfortable and I feel like he genuinely cares about my oral health. The hygienists that clean my teeth are also gentle and understanding. I have been very please with my overall experiences for the past 3 years.

Oct 27, 2010

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I make a 50 minute drive... Just to go to this dentist! The entire staff is so friendly, and I have yet to experience ANY pain (have gotten cavities filled and all!) during my visits. I feel so fortunate to have found Southfield Family Dental Center! They have literally diminished my fear of dental work! Most gentle people I've ever met, which is just what I'm looking for when it comes to my mouth! :)

Bell ‎ - Mar 21, 2010

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Best Dentist I have ever seen Wow, I went in for a root canal and I was terrified. When I got there they were very friendly and the dentist himself was so gentle and the tools they used were amazing that I really didn't have any pain. This was actually a great experience. I had to have a root canal done about 8 years ago and all that I could remember was that it was the WORST PAIN EVER but not here. I will recommend this office to ALL of my friends and family. I can't wait until I get my teeth cleaned

Nichole ‎ - Aug 21, 2008

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I love this dentistry! They are professional, quick and efficient. I have dental insurance, but they kept my out-of-pocket costs very reasonal and economical. They are extremely accommodating to families with children, providing a waiting area equipped with computers for their use and family movies. I highly, HIGHLY recommend this office and will be a loyal customer for years to come.

Margina G. Parker ‎ - Aug 30, 2011

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I recently had to have an emergency root canal and was referred to Dr. Levi and Dr. Oleg. Keep in mind I'm TERRIFIED of the dentist office. I've had so many horrific experiences to count.

From the moment I walked in I felt at ease. The staff was so accommodating and reassuring. They could see the fear in my eyes and they did everything they could to put my mind at ease. Then the procedure began and Dr. Levi was so compassionate and caring. He explained everything they were doing and walked me through the process. There was absolutely no pain that day or the next. I had my follow up appointment with Dr. Oleg and the experience once ago was as delightful as it could be for having a root canal. Very caring and always checking into make sure I wasn't feeling any pain. And their dental assistants were just the icing on the cake. These ladies, especially Laura, make your experience so calming.

These two dentists have really began to make me change my mind about this line of work. I don't have sleepless nights anymore the night before going to the dentist!

Aimee S. – June 19, 2011

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Family friendly dentists. Really caring. If you haven't been to the dentist in a while, then this is the place to go. I had a bad experience with a dentist and dreaded going to a new one. But Dr. Oleg made me feel comfortable even with the amount of work that needed to be done. They can show you on the computer what is wrong and they explain it to you with videos (I am a visual person). Clean building and the bathroom is nice.

Getting an evening or weekend appt. can be hard because they have a lot of clients, but you can ask to be called if someone cancels. They actually call if someone cancels! They are on 10 mile near Sfld. Rd. I have seen their work and it is nice.

Nina M. – September 9, 2010

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We encourage you to contact us whenever you have an interest or concern.

Call Today (248) 569-6304

Southfield MI Dentists
Southfield Family Dental Center
18800 West 10 Mile Road Suite 1
Southfield, MI 48075