Tuesday, April 30, 2013

Periodontal Disease

Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease is a severe oral health problem that affects about 10% of the population.  Although the infection begins as a minor inflammation, it can quickly escalate into tooth loss, hard tissue damage, and have an effect on your overall systemic health.  

Fortunately, it is easy to prevent periodontal disease with diligent oral care.  I always remind my patients to brush twice a day, floss and schedule appointments for bi-annual cleanings and exams.  In the event you do find yourself with periodontal disease, it’s important to catch it in its earliest stages.

If you notice any of the following signs of periodontal disease developing, schedule an appointment and be proactive about your oral health:
•    Bleeding gums during or after brushing and flossing your teeth
•    Swollen, tender or sore gums
•    Gums that appear to be receding from your teeth
•    Bad breath or a foul taste in your mouth, even after brushing
•    Loose teeth or teeth that can be physically moved in the gum bed
•    Changes in your bite alignment
•    Lack of stability in any restoratives or prosthetic dental work

Source:
http://www.nidcr.nih.gov/DataStatistics/FindDataByTopic/GumDisease/PeriodontaldiseaseAdults20to64

Wednesday, April 24, 2013

Root Canals

Root Canals


When you hear the term “root canal,” you probably associate this infamous procedure with a sense of dread.  However, this association is actually based in a number of common misconceptions.  Modern technology has made root canal procedures virtually painless.  New advancements and technologies have improved the efficiency and comfort of a procedure so that patients no longer have to be afraid of the process.  Digital x-rays, precision instruments and effective dental anesthetic have made it possible to accurately target infections.  Since the entire process is less invasive, patients have a reduced healing time and can return to their normal activities without pain.  Any discomfort that is felt during the healing period can be easily relieved with over-the-counter painkillers.


If you are still nervous or have concerns about your root canal or endodontic procedure, feel free to call my office.  I’m happy to answer any questions you may have.

Wednesday, April 17, 2013

Dental Implants

Dental Implants

Do you have a missing tooth?  Whether your smile gap is accidental or your tooth has been extracted, it’s still important to have your smile restored.  Dental implants are one of the best ways to restore the natural look and feel of your smile.  Compared to other tooth prosthetics, dental implants have unique advantages that set them above the rest.  


If you are not sure which dental restoration is best for your smile, I’m always happy to help.  Just arrange an appointment at my office for a consultation.  For many patients, dental implants have proven to be a successful restoration with a number of benefits:

•    There is no need to modify the surrounding teeth or rely on adjacent teeth for support.  Dental implants stand alone.

•    They can be placed anywhere within the mouth, serving as a great replacement for teeth in the front or back of your smile. 

•    Dental implants can be used to restore a single tooth, or entire rows of teeth through multiple implants.

•    They provide patients with a natural look and feel that makes the restorative indistinguishable from the rest of your smile.

•    Dental implants last are designed to last a lifetime with regular brushing, flossing and dental checkups

Monday, April 8, 2013

Cosmetic Dentistry

Cosmetic Dentistry


Your smile has a huge impact on your oral health, self-confidence and even how you are viewed by others.  A number of studies and surveys have found that a beautiful, white, aligned smile is considered the most attractive physical feature by the majority of men and women.  If you are looking to improve your confidence, cosmetic dentistry may be an appealing option for you!


Cosmetic smile improvements are often sought after for their immediate aesthetic result.  However, this outward improvement facilitates benefits beyond the surface of your smile.  As with anything you take the time and money to invest in, you are more likely to care for your teeth on a daily basis.  Opting for cosmetic dentistry means that your smile is worth your time to care for.  Patients are more likely to maintain their oral health and beauty through brushing, flossing and regular dental checkups.  An aligned smile also means that it is easier to remove bacteria and identify any problems that could compromise your smile health.  Most importantly, cosmetic dentistry provides you with a brighter, more aesthetically pleasing grin that keeps you smiling and gives you the confidence to make great impressions on others.


I offer a number of cosmetic dental services at my practice.  If you are ready to discover how cosmetic dentistry can benefit you, contact my office.  I look forward to helping you find confidence, health and beauty in your smile!


Sources:


http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2182380/Smile-Why-white-teeth-sign-good-health-make-attractive.html


http://www.femalefirst.co.uk/health/Smiles+Top+Attractiveness+Poll-1789.html