It's easy to assume a dentist's world begins and ends at the practice down the street. At Golden Coast Dental Care, that's not quite the whole picture.
Dr. Brock Lorenz, part of the same team caring for patients alongside Dr. Maria Cecilia Garcia here at Golden Coast Dental Care, has spent years volunteering his dental skills abroad in Mexico and …
Biting into something the wrong way on a Saturday and feeling or hearing an unmistakable crack has a way of ruining a weekend. The good news is that a cracked tooth is not an uncommon dental emergency, and knowing what to do until you can see an emergency dentist in Long Beach on Monday can make all the difference.
If …
It started with one missing tooth. Now every conversation with your dentist, a friend, even a targeted ad, seems to be steering you toward implants and the price tag that comes with them.
Replacing a single missing tooth with a dental implant typically costs more upfront than other options, but financing through CareCredit or Sunbit at Golden Coast Dental Care …
Before going on vacation, there’s so much to do: planning outfits, choosing restaurants, packing sunscreen for pool and beach days. In the midst of it all, ensuring your smile’s radiance can fall through the cracks. And then, during your incredible trip, you snap a photo and come face to face with the cosmetic dentistry treatments you didn’t get before hitting …
Traveling brings such joy! Immersing yourself in the food and culture of a new place is priceless.
However, just like your packing, you've also got to plan ahead for your oral health when you travel. Especially if anything is bothering you or you have specific concerns. Flying can exacerbate tooth pain or emergencies, and you don't want to be caught …
You often hear on repeat about how preventive dentistry saves you time, money, and protects your teeth, but what does that really mean for you? Today we're breaking it down. Let's get started!
Consistent dental exams and teeth cleanings in Long Beach typically mean you may have fewer future visits because our dentists can …
While many patients only need a filling, crown, or implant, others have several issues occurring at the same time and may benefit from a more comprehensive approach.
The phrase "full mouth reconstruction" can sound intimidating. However, the procedures that make up the treatment are typically routine and straightforward. The term refers to a customized plan consisting of procedures to rebuild …
Everyone understands that tooth loss affects their smile. What many don't realize is that it can also affect the underlying bone structure that supports the face. Over time, this process can change facial contours and contribute to an older or more “sunken” appearance.
At Golden Coast Dental Care, Dr. Raha Baghbanian helps patients understand the long-term effects of tooth loss …
Dental implants are the most effective and longest-lasting treatment option for replacing missing teeth. Because they replace both the visible part of a tooth (the crown) and the underlying root structure, implants provide unmatched stability, function, and comfort, while preserving an individual’s natural appearance.
At Golden Coast Dental Care, Dr. Raha Baghbanian guides patients through every stage of the dental …
Sometimes, a mild toothache may come and go without much hassle. However, other types of dental pain should never be ignored.
Persistent severe or throbbing discomfort can signal infection, nerve damage, or other problems that may worsen without treatment. Knowing when to seek immediate care can protect your comfort, oral health, and overall well-being.
At Golden Coast Dental Care, Dr. …
Dental restorations are designed to restore strength, function, and visual appeal to your smile. Unfortunately, they don't remain pristine forever. Over time, dental crowns, bridges, and fillings can wear down, loosen, shift, or alter how teeth meet. When this happens, you may notice some discomfort, sensitivity, tension headaches, or simply the feeling that your bite no longer “fits” naturally.
Facial swelling can happen for a variety of reasons. However, when it develops near the jaw, cheek, or gums, there’s a greater likelihood that a dental infection is to blame. That’s because infections that begin inside a tooth or around the gums can spread into surrounding tissues, creating visible swelling, pain, and pressure. Because these infections not only do not …
You’ve got a presentation at work tomorrow, and you need to stay up late to get ready. Or you’re applying for a new position and want to be prepared for the interview process. You need something to help you stay awake and alert, so you reach for your favorite energy drink.
But did you know that these popular drinks can …
When you watch television or scroll on social media, you’ll probably see advertisements for different weight loss medications. Chances are that either you or someone you know has successfully lost weight with one of the GLP-1 receptor medications; they’re extremely popular right now and have helped many people achieve their goals.
And although you may be familiar with some of …
Cracks, chips, fractures, and uneven wear can affect much more than a person’s appearance. Even minor structural damage can disrupt the way teeth come together, placing stress on the jaw and surrounding muscles. At Golden Coast Dental Care, Dr. Brock Lorenz and our dedicated team are working to help patients understand how damaged teeth influence overall bite health.
Tooth decay rarely begins with obvious pain. In most cases, harmful bacteria gradually move beneath the surface of a tooth’s enamel, creating damage long before symptoms appear. At Golden Coast Dental Care, Dr. Brock Lorenz helps patients understand how dental decay develops so they can protect their long-term oral health between visits.
The decaying process typically starts …
Have you ever stepped outside on a chilly Long Beach morning and felt a sudden shock run through your teeth? It’s not a figment of your imagination! Coastal air, temperature shifts, and underlying dental conditions often combine to trigger tooth sensitivity, especially during early mornings.
Teeth respond to temperature changes more than most …
Dental anxiety has probably been around about as long as dentistry itself. These days, however, patients are more open about it than ever before. As conversations around mental health and patient comfort become more common, dental anxiety is finally being addressed as a real barrier to oral health, not something patients should “push through.” As a result, adults who’ve delayed …
The holidays make multitaskers of us all. Between wrapping packages, opening packages, trimming décor, prepping food, eating, and rushing through all manner of other minor tasks at once, it’s not uncommon to see people slip into a surprisingly common (and potentially costly) habit of using their teeth as tools.
Whether you’re tearing tape, opening a bottle, or cracking a nut, …
Everyone wants a dazzling smile, especially here in sunny Long Beach, CA, where selfies, beach days, and social events are part of the lifestyle. But when it comes to upgrading your smile, should you go for teeth whitening or veneers? Golden Coast Dental Care is here to help you weigh the options and find the perfect solution.
The holiday season is here, and along with festive lights, cozy gatherings, and delicious treats comes plenty of photo opportunities. From office parties to family portraits, you’ll want to show off your best smile.
If you’re in Long Beach, CA, Golden Coast Dental Care is here to help you get your pearly whites holiday-ready!
No …
By the time fall arrives, you know the holidays are right around the corner. There will be family photos and perhaps plenty of reasons to smile. Additionally, fall marks the final quarter of the year. By starting treatments today, you can kick off the coming year with a bright, shiny smile.
Other cosmetic options to consider this season:
The end of the year is fast approaching, and that means your dental benefits are set to expire. These benefits will not roll over, and you’ll lose them forever. Your dentist in Long Beach, CA, recommends taking advantage of your dental care benefits before it's too late.
Here are just a few ways to use the remaining:
Root canals are often the treatment that eliminates pain and swelling, while preventing you from losing a tooth. Unfortunately, root canal therapy is shrouded in myth, and many believe it is the absolute worst.
This blog aims to dispel the myths to ensure you get the treatment you need when you need it.
We explore:
Wisdom teeth are late bloomers and come in years after your adult teeth, usually in the late teens or during early adulthood. They are located at the back of the mouth, typically one on each arch, and can erupt without incident.
These teeth are not useful and don’t complement your smile or chewing function, so if they are problematic, extraction …
When you visit the dentist for a routine checkup and cleaning, you may not realize that part of your examination is an oral cancer screening. Shockingly, the National Cancer Institute estimates there will be nearly 60,000 cases of oral cavity and pharynx cancer in 2025 alone, making it an essential part of your preventive care.
In this guide for Long …
Cherie's 6 AM alarm signals the start of her Saturday adventure: kayaking through Rainbow Harbor, followed by coffee at a cafe. As a Long Beach water sports enthusiast, she's learned that maintaining oral health during adventures requires some planning.
Oral care essentials for your next water adventure:
Long Beach is renowned for its ocean breezes and vibrant culture, and residents who are fortunate enough to live in this community understand the importance of maintaining healthy teeth and gums. At Golden Coast Dental Care, we recognize that prioritizing oral health is a crucial component of overall well-being; that’s why we closely monitor dental trends and educate our patients …
Millions of people are embarrassed by their smiles, so if you’re one of them, you’re not alone! Feeling ashamed to look in the mirror or afraid to go out with friends is no way to live; that’s why we encourage you to take the first step toward reclaiming your oral health and achieving the gorgeous, natural-looking smile you deserve.
With …
While National Dental Care Month might seem like just another awareness campaign, it’s the perfect opportunity to reset and strengthen the habits that keep your smile healthy throughout the year.
Here are the five most critical dental habits to reinforce—not just this month, but for life.
Have you recently noticed that your breath isn’t as fresh and clean as it should be? Everyone experiences this occasionally, but chronic bad breath can significantly impact your confidence and affect both personal and professional interactions.
Your Long Beach dentists want to help you understand what causes bad breath and steps we can take …
Do you notice pink in the sink after brushing or flossing? Many people dismiss bleeding gums as normal, but it’s actually a warning sign that you may have periodontal disease. At Golden Coast Dental Care in Long Beach, CA, we want to help you understand why you should never ignore bleeding gums.
Healthy gums …
In terms of both function and aesthetics, orthodontics is foundational to oral health care. For members of the Long Beach, CA, community, committing to a realigned smile often leads to a crucial decision—between Invisalign® and traditional braces.
While both options are highly effective at addressing issues like misalignment, overcrowding, gaps, overbite, underbite, and crossbite, each comes with certain benefits and …
February isn’t just about heart-shaped chocolates and love—it’s also Gum Disease Awareness Month. It’s a time dedicated to educating people about gum health and why it matters. While your teeth get most of the attention, your gums play a huge role in maintaining a healthy, beautiful smile. So, let’s break it down: what is gum disease, how can you prevent …
Dental emergencies have a way of happening at the worst possible times, like right before a big event or in the middle of the night. While you can’t always predict them, you can be prepared. Here’s what to do in a dental emergency and when to seek professional care ASAP.
What to Do:
New year, new smile, right? Right??
If you find your resolutions fizzling by February, it’s time to set realistic, game-changing goals that stick. Forget extreme diets or impossible workout plans — a brighter, healthier smile is an achievable goal that pays off with brighter teeth, fresher breath, and fewer trips to the dentist. The best part? Small, consistent changes can …
Missing teeth can take a toll on your confidence, ability to eat properly, and, as a result, your overall oral health and quality of life. If you’re tired of hiding your smile because of unsightly gaps left by tooth loss, you’ve likely considered two of the most effective and popular solutions for dental restoration: dental implants and dentures.
While both …
A radiant and disarming smile can make all the difference in day-to-day life. From boosting self-confidence to leaving a positive, lasting impression on others, a beautiful, beaming smile can be an incredible life hack.
Fortunately, for those of us for whom the pearliest of whites don’t come naturally, professional teeth whitening provides a safe, effective, and efficient way to elevate …
There’s likely no more misunderstood procedure in dentistry than the root canal. Based on TV and movies, they are a source of anxiety, fear, and pain.
When they’re not being played for cheap laughs, root canals are virtually painless and incredibly effective at saving natural teeth. Understanding the process, its benefits, and what to expect can help ease concerns and …
When considering dental crowns, you might imagine a long, drawn-out process involving multiple appointments and temporary fixes. But what if we told you there’s a faster, more efficient way to restore your smile? At Golden Coast Dental Care, your trusted Long Beach dentist, we offer same-day dental crowns to save you time while delivering exceptional results. Let’s explore the benefits …
There’s more than one road leading to the rejuvenated and radiant smile of your dreams. Take teeth whitening, for instance, whose options include professional, in-office treatments, over-the-counter at-home kits, and natural remedies.
While a whiter, more brilliant smile can boost confidence, choosing the method that’s right for you makes a difference. Today, we’re considering the differences in effectiveness and safety …
With the new year just months away, it’s a great time to tie up loose ends. Whether you’re wrapping up a crucial project at work before the holidays or getting cracking on now-ten-month-old New Year’s resolutions, it’s go time!
Along these lines, this is also the perfect time to maximize your unused dental insurance benefits before they expire and reset …
Most of us need at least a little help to face our fears. For individuals with anxiety or a full-blown about climbing into a dental chair, sedation dentistry offers that helping hand!
For many patients in Long Beach, dental anxiety is a significant barrier to receiving essential oral care. Fortunately, sedation dentistry offers a safe and effective way to make …
Anyone who’s suffered from tooth loss wants nothing more than to forget the whole ordeal and move on forever. Thanks to dental implants, that’s (more or less) possible!
Dental implants are the gold standard for replacing missing teeth. Patients in Long Beach, CA, regularly turn to implants for their durability, strength, natural appearance, and functionality. Implants provide an incredibly long-lasting …
Full mouth reconstruction is a transformative approach to addressing complex dental problems. This comprehensive treatment plan combines various dental procedures to restore both function and aesthetics, making it an ideal solution for individuals facing severe dental issues.
Here’s how full mouth reconstruction can resolve complex problems such as multiple missing teeth, severe decay, and significant bite issues.
Maintaining a robust oral hygiene routine is essential for keeping your teeth and gums healthy. At Golden Coast Dental Care, our Long Beach dentist offers practical advice to help you enhance your daily oral care practices. By adopting these tips, you can significantly improve your oral hygiene and protect your smile.
Brushing your teeth is the cornerstone …
When considering dental crowns in Long Beach, CA, you may think of post root canal therapy or remedies for tooth damage. Today, dental crowns play many roles in dentistry and are even used cosmetically.
In this blog, I discuss dental crowns and their use in dentistry, with a special emphasis on cosmetics.
Dental crowns are custom …
Invisalign® in Long Beach, CA, is popular with older teens and adults. The clear aligners allow for orthodontic discretion and ease of wear, but there are other benefits you may not have considered.
Most patients choose Invisalign because they want straight teeth and a beautiful smile, but there are also oral health advantages to consider!
As a Long Beach dentist, …
Hi, my name is Dr. Brock Lorenz of Gold Coast Dental Care. My team and colleagues are pleased to serve the local Long Beach community and all surrounding areas. We are a multispecialty dental clinic, offering everything you need to keep your smile healthy, plus advanced care to enhance smile aesthetics, tooth loss, and more.
I received my degree from …
Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is a common but potentially serious condition that affects the gum tissue and bones supporting the teeth. Left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss and other health issues. Understanding its symptoms, available treatments, and preventive measures is crucial for maintaining periodontal health.
Gum disease often begins slowly, as a result …
Oral health is vital to overall well-being. To this end, finding the right dental care provider in Long Beach, CA, is paramount. As anyone with a busy schedule will attest, this means finding a dental team that’s experienced, highly skilled, and conveniently located near your home, school, or office, with accommodating hours.
Whether you've recently moved, changed insurance, or are …
If you’ve ever wished you had whiter, straighter, more beautiful teeth, you’re not alone. Because we are constantly bombarded on social media and television with images of dazzling smiles, it may feel like you’re the only one without perfect teeth. Fortunately, cosmetic dentistry has become increasingly popular and accessible, allowing you to achieve the smile of your dreams.
So, if …
What would you do if you woke up in the middle of the night with a terrible toothache? What if it’s Saturday, and you sustain an injury to your mouth? Unfortunately, dental emergencies can happen at the most inopportune moments, so it's beneficial to know some first-aid tips for some of the more common dental issues.
Keep reading to learn …
Did you know nearly half of all American adults suffer from gum disease? According to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), 47.2% of adults aged 30 or older have periodontal disease, and those chances increase with age. When the bacteria in your mouth stay on your teeth for too long, plaque builds up and eventually reaches below the …
No one wants to hear they need to have one or more teeth extracted. Your smile is one of the first things people notice about you, so when you are missing teeth, it affects your self-confidence. Also, missing teeth make it difficult to eat your favorite foods. Unfortunately, there is another concern you may not have considered: a collapsing bite. …
Have you ever considered how your teeth, mouth, and jaw work together to make you look like you? Well, it’s true; your facial symmetry balances your features, so when something isn’t aligned or functioning properly, or if it’s missing, this delicate balance can be thrown off.
That’s why your jaw needs to be properly aligned and have a complete set …
When you think about dental implants, you probably focus on how replacing your teeth is essential to being able to eat your favorite foods and smile in pictures again. However, did you know dental implants can also transform your facial appearance? It’s true; one of the benefits of dental implants is their ability to alter how your face looks.
Keep …
The drawbacks of misaligned or crooked teeth extend beyond aesthetics. This is because of the impact that misaligned or crooked teeth can have on other aspects of oral and maxillofacial health. Perhaps the most significant example of this is the effect that crooked teeth can have on the mechanics of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), which connects the lower jawbone to …
Gum grafting is a vital cosmetic and restorative dental procedure with several far-reaching benefits. The significance of gum grafting lies in its positive impact on both the aesthetic and functional aspects of oral health.
To understand the role gum grafting plays in maintaining and restoring health and vibrance to a person's smile, it's helpful to understand what this procedure entails, …
Understanding the early signs of a root canal infection is critical to getting the proper treatment quickly. At Golden Coast Dental Care, located in Long Beach, CA, we are dedicated to helping you understand these signs.
Early detection can ease the treatment process and significantly increase the chances of preserving your natural tooth, ensuring a healthier and more comfortable dental …
Pregnancy brings about numerous considerations for health and safety, including dental procedures. The question often arises for those needing a root canal in Long Beach, CA: Is it safe to undergo this procedure while pregnant?
A root canal is a dental procedure aimed at addressing infections deep within a tooth. This treatment involves carefully removing …
If you have recently undergone root canal treatment in Long Beach, CA, or you have a damaged tooth that needs to be protected, your dentist might recommend a dental crown. Dental crowns are essentially a cap that covers your entire tooth, giving it the stability it needs to function. Before you have your dental crown procedure, your dentist might give …
Yes, gingivitis and periodontal disease can return at any time following successful treatment with the dentist. However, if you are vigilant with your dental visits and at-home care, you can significantly lower your risks for recurrence.
Gum disease is an oral health condition staged by severity. In early disease (gingivitis), you may notice mildly inflamed gums …
A dental emergency can be extremely scary, so during this stressful time, it’s essential to have a dental office that will answer your call and advise you on what steps to take. Millions of people have teeth knocked out every year, but the good news is that there’s a good chance your tooth can be saved and last for many …
When you search “dental office near me” or “dental clinic near me,” you hope to find a dentist that makes you feel comfortable and at home, especially if you are experiencing dental issues. You might feel anxious or embarrassed about going to the dentist; maybe you haven’t been practicing good oral hygiene or had a difficult dental experience as a …
When you are looking for a dental office for your family, there are many different factors to consider. Of course, you want a warm and friendly environment paired with a professional staff who can offer excellent endodontic, periodontic, and general dentistry services. If all this sounds too good to be true, look no further than the caring and compassionate team …
When you hear the words “root canal,” you probably think of a lengthy dental procedure that will cause you a great deal of pain, right? Well, that isn’t true! Root canal treatment has a bad reputation; the truth is that it’s a routine dental procedure that preserves your tooth and relieves your dental pain. So, what does root canal treatment …
Please come visit our office during our grand opening on June 9, 2023! We will be here to greet you from 11:00-6:00pm with free tacos and drinks from 11:00-2:00pm. We will also have goodie bags, raffles and games. Hope to see you there!
With so many advancements in dental technology, you have a wide range of options to care for your dental needs. Gone are the days of outdated equipment and time-consuming procedures; today’s modern dentistry boasts technological advancements such as intraoral cameras to help us during procedures, 3-D printers to create same-day dental crowns, 3-D cone beam tomography for dental implants, digital …
When it comes to whitening your teeth and brightening your smile, you have several options, including a whitening treatment at our dental office in Long Beach, CA, and more non-traditional methods like LED and charcoal whitening. But what's the best choice for your smile? Read on to learn more.
You might've seen or heard reports …