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Monthly Archives: May 2018
What is Periodontal Disease and How Can You Treat It?
You will be surprised to know that gum disease is one of the most common oral health issues that very easily go unnoticed until it is too late. The gum diseases are not painful, which is why they are so easy to ignore. Periodontal diseases vary. It could be simple gum inflammation or a serious oral disease that may damage soft tissues and bone that strengthen your teeth. It could become worse, in which case you may end up losing a tooth or two. This is why it is so utterly important to floss and brush every day and schedule monthly dental appointments.
Periodontal Disease Treatment
In periodontal disease treatment, the main goal is to restrict the infection whereas the types and number of treatment may vary. It is determined by examining the intensity of the gum disease. It is also based on how a patient is taking care of his teeth at home. The outcome of treatment could become satisfactory if patient works on certain habits, for example, not eating too much processed or sugary foods, etc.
1. Deep Cleaning – the dental hygienist will use a deep cleaning process called scaling and root planning to remove the plaque. The scaling involves tartar removal from above and below the gumline. Through root planning, the patient can get rid of rough spots that occur on the tooth’s root. It also removes germs and bacteria that contribute to the periodontal disease.
2. Medications – Your dentist may use medication with the procedures. These medications are not an alternative to surgeries. The periodontist may recommend surgery after examining the severity of your gum disease. It can be determined by long-term studies whether medications can work as surgery does and are they effective for longer period of time or not.
Surgical Treatments
Flap surgery – during this surgery, the tartar is removed and the gums are placed back. It is also done to balance out uneven surfaces of the destroyed bone. The flap surgery leaves no space for germs that cause the disease. Then, the gums are put into their place to make tissue sit around tooth perfectly. The space between gum and tooth remain limited after the process. So, there are minimum chances left for bacteria to grow and for serious dental problems to occur.
Bone and tissue grafts – in bone grafts, the bone which was damaged by the gum disease is replaced by person’s own bone, synthetic bone, or even by a donated bone. These grafts are surgically implanted for the re-growth of the damaged bone, restoring the strength of the teeth. This new technology is known as tissue engineering – it is worth mentioning here that the procedure encourages your body to re-grow dental tissue and bone faster. Moreover, in soft tissue grafts, all those areas where there is a gum recession will be re-filled.
Examining oral health is essential to avoid any serious dental problem. So, do not wait, contact us and book an appointment immediately to learn more about your dental health with the reputed orthodontists in New York.
Make the right decision and call the best orthodontist in NYC. Contact us at 1-646-760-8028 to schedule a consultation.
Top Symptoms of Tooth Decay and What You Can Do About It
Tooth decay can cause severe pain that will keep you awake at night. Cavities are caused due to the accumulation of bacteria in your teeth which causes the production of acid that leads to tooth decay. The bacterium gradually starts damaging the tooth to the point where it reaches the roots. There are many causes of tooth decay such as poor hygiene, lack of nutrients and excessively processed foods.
Here are a few symptoms of tooth decay:
Toothache
Pain or irritation can be the indication of a developing cavity which will later lead to tooth decay. Sometimes the pain is in the actual tooth and in some cases, it is caused due to an inflamed gum. Sharp pain and throbbing are both signs of a cavity forming in your tooth. Immediately visit your dentist or use a home remedy to inhibit the spread of the bacteria.
Difficulty Chewing
If you chew on something and the affected tooth comes in contact with a harder substance, you are likely to experience sharp pain that will cause you to stop chewing. A decaying tooth is susceptible to breaking or cracking under intense pressure that you are likely to put on it while chewing. Some cavities grow without any indications and are suddenly experienced through sharp pain or bleeding gums.
Sensitivity
Sensitivity to hot, cold or sour foods and beverages is due to either swollen gums or a decaying tooth. Cavities often cause extreme sensitivity to certain foods, and you will experience a sharp pain each time you eat that particular food. This is because the tooth is decaying and hollowing out causing the food to reach the nerve endings.
Dark Spots
Notice any dark spots, holes or discoloration in your teeth? This is because the tooth decay is beginning from the surface of that tooth and the cavities are forming. Even white and brown spots can be an indication of a decaying tooth. If the spots are sticky, the tooth is decaying, and the bacterium is spreading. In such cases visit the dentist immediately for an examination.
What You Can Do
Brush Away
Regularly brushing your teeth up to two times a day will help eliminate the hidden bacteria from your mouth, flossing and using mouthwash is the best way to reach crevices and corners that the bristles of the brush cannot reach. Although brushing is recommended after each meal, make sure that you are brushing at least twice a day.
Let the Sugar Go
Cutting out sugary and processed food from your diet will protect your teeth from the menace of tooth decay while improving your overall dental health. Minimize the consumption of carbonated beverages and other acidic foods to ensure a healthy mouth.
The Dentist Is Your Best Friend
Well not literally, but if your teeth are suffering because of your genetics, there is a large chance that you can stop the decay by taking good care of your teeth and regular visits to the dentist will help.
Bottom Line
Stay clean is part of an overall healthy lifestyle, same goes for oral health. A clean mouth will help your set of teeth to last in your old age. Take the recommended measures and never forget to change your toothbrush every three months. Invest in your health and choose natural toothpaste, avoid coffees and teas; if not then try using a straw. The smallest measure can help you prevent tooth decay. If your doctor recommends surgery, get the procedure done immediately to avoid further damage to the teeth.