expert type icon EXPERT

Dr. L Todd Iverson, DDS

Dentist

Dr. L Iverson is a Dentist practicing in San Francisco, CA. Dr. Iverson specializes in preventing, diagnosing, and treating diseases and conditions associated with the mouth and overall dental health. Dentists are trained to carry out such treatment as professional cleaning, restorative, prosthodontic, and endodontic procedures, and performing examinations, among many others.
Dr. L Todd Iverson, DDS
  • San Francisco, CA
  • Accepting new patients

What could the bump on my gum be?

It’s most likely a fistula because one of the teeth needs a root canal. The nerve died slowly and now the infection has eaten through the bone and is draining. If you tap the tooth READ MORE
It’s most likely a fistula because one of the teeth needs a root canal. The nerve died slowly and now the infection has eaten through the bone and is draining. If you tap the tooth next to the “bump,” one should hurt more than the others.

What can be done for missing back teeth?

If you still have enough bone then implants. If not you may need a bridge or removable dentures.

How do cavities heal without fillings?

You cannot stop the spread once the “cavity” is through the enamel and into the dentin. If you treat it now, it’s 200 dollars, takes 20 minutes, and last 20 years If you wait READ MORE
You cannot stop the spread once the “cavity” is through the enamel and into the dentin. If you treat it now, it’s 200 dollars, takes 20 minutes, and last 20 years If you wait till it hurts, it’s 2,000 dollars, or you extract the tooth. Please get the filling. You’re on 22 and need these teeth for 60+ more years.

Are there any medicated pastes for gum health?

A Sonicare toothbrush and flossing is the best way to improve gum health. The sound waves from the brush rupture bacteria under the gums that is the cause of inflammation.

Does food get under implants?

Think of it just like a tooth. Food can get between the gum and tooth/crown of implant so you need to clean around them, but the actual implant/root of tooth is in the bone.

Is it better to have root canal or extraction?

Only if you are putting an implant in that spot. You need all your teeth to distribute the force or the rest start breaking down.

Do dentists fill cavities under local anesthesia?

Local anesthesia = injection at site of dental treatments

What is the best mouthwash to use after a tooth extraction?

For the first week none. You do not want to dislodge the blood clot forming or you’ll get dry socket

Is there an alternative to dental anesthesia?

Tell your dentist you would like nitrous oxide. We have ways to help you not feel anxious, but you do need the anesthesia.

Will lemon juice whiten teeth?

Absolutely not. The acid from juice dissolves the enamel. Please do not do this.

Which is better for overbite braces or Invisalign?

You will not be able to correct the overbite through invisalign. Traditional brackets are necessary to correct this and depending on the severity of the overbite oral surgery READ MORE
You will not be able to correct the overbite through invisalign. Traditional brackets are necessary to correct this and depending on the severity of the overbite oral surgery may be necessary. Do Not do invisalign. Will not help

Why is my gum swollen around one tooth?

Either a infection within your gums or the tooth needs a root canal. It will not heal on its own so you should see a dentist

Can tooth decay form under a dental bridge?

Yes decay can form under a bridge on the natural tooth structure

What is the procedure for replacing crowns?

Yes but the reason may be that the nerve has broken down and requires a root canal. If so they will drill through the crown to do the procedure and you most likely will not need READ MORE
Yes but the reason may be that the nerve has broken down and requires a root canal. If so they will drill through the crown to do the procedure and you most likely will not need to replace the crown

Is a spin brush better or a manual toothbrush?

The research shows that the Sonicare toothbrush is 5 times better (500% better) that a Spin or Hand Held TB. It is the best 50 dollars you can spend on your oral health, and if READ MORE
The research shows that the Sonicare toothbrush is 5 times better (500% better) that a Spin or Hand Held TB. It is the best 50 dollars you can spend on your oral health, and if you need to skip a cleaning to purchase the brush, do it.

How can you get rid of a cavity without going to the dentist?

You cannot get rid of dental cavities by yourself. If they are causing you pain, no matter how mild, it is important to get them treated before they enter the nerve space, requiring READ MORE
You cannot get rid of dental cavities by yourself. If they are causing you pain, no matter how mild, it is important to get them treated before they enter the nerve space, requiring a root canal.

Are there any natural toothpastes available?

The American Dental Association just came out with a study that states toothpaste WITHOUT fluoride has the same efficacy (effect) as not brushing your teeth. Please make sure READ MORE
The American Dental Association just came out with a study that states toothpaste WITHOUT fluoride has the same efficacy (effect) as not brushing your teeth. Please make sure your "Natural Toothpaste" has fluoride.