August 2016 - The Dental Place

August 19, 2016

Gingivitis is early-stage gum disease. Many times, gingivitis can be asymptomatic in the beginning but there are some common indicators that gum tissue is inflamed and irritated. The most common noticeable symptoms that a patient may see are red or inflamed gums, gums that bleed when flossing or brushing, and recession of the gum line that exposes more tooth structure (the roots of teeth). During cleanings and checkups, our staff and our dentist will look for signs of gum disease. If caught early on, patients normally can improve their gum health by adopting a more diligent oral hygiene routine and receiving professional prophylaxis (cleanings).

Why Early Detection of Gum Disease is Important

When gum disease is detected early on, our dentist can help stop its advancement into a chronic and progressive disease. Gingivitis is curable with proper treatment and oral hygiene. Sometimes, lifestyle choices and hormonal fluctuations can make folks more susceptible to gum disease. For instance, smoking or the hormonal changes associated with pregnancy can inflame the gums, thus making gingival tissue more easily infected.

Since other factors beyond oral hygiene contribute to the onset of gingivitis, it is important for people to schedule bi-annual checkups and cleanings. This will greatly increase the likelihood that gum disease is diagnosed early on. Early intervention means that patients can prevent many complications associated with advanced gum disease.

The Danger of Untreated Gum Disease

When gum disease goes undiagnosed and untreated, it can progress rapidly into a very destructive oral health condition. Advanced gum (periodontal) disease can destroy the bond between teeth and gums—leading to tooth loss and the persistent infection in the oral cavity can enter the bloodstream.

Periodontal disease is the primary cause of tooth loss among adults. It is also so destructive that it can cause bone deterioration. Managing advanced gum disease requires a combination of specialized treatments, medications, and sometimes, surgical procedures.

We are accepting new patients. Call our office at 972-264-5795 today to schedule a checkup with our skilled dental team.

August 5, 2016

Modifications to the oral cavity and surrounding facial tissue can affect your oral health. While oral piercings and dermal modifications are a popular method of self-expression, it is important that patients understand the risks they take before modifying their bodies. If you are considering an oral or dermal piercing, we encourage you to have a conversation with our dentist at your next appointment so that you can have a full understanding of the risks involved as well receive information on how you can reduce the likelihood for oral health complications associated with piercings.

Permanent Damage to Teeth

Oral piercings – especially those in the tongue can be quite damaging to teeth. This is because tongue piercings are metal and the metal components can hit against teeth during oral function. In many cases, those with tongue or lip piercings even tap the metal piercing against their teeth as a nervous habit. Over time, as teeth make contact with metal, they will weaken. Metal is strong enough to chip or crack a tooth – especially if a tooth’s enamel surface is weakened by acid or untimely wear and tear.

When teeth break, chip, or crack, patients must receive professional treatment such as restorations or endodontic (root canal) therapy from our dentist to prevent further complications like the loss of a tooth or infections like abscesses. This is because a tooth will not heal on its own and once its sensitive tissue is exposed to debris and bacteria, a weak tooth is incredibly vulnerable to severe damage and disease.

Risk of Infections

Oral piercings and dermal modifications on or around the mouth can increase the risk for infections – especially when patients don’t practice proper oral and personal hygiene. The mouth is already home to many kinds of bacteria – some good and harmful. When soft tissue like the linings of lips and cheeks or the tongue is pierced, it can leave these surfaces vulnerable to becoming infected. Oral infections can become severe without timely treatment.

If you have piercings and dermals, we recommend washing the areas properly along with practicing very thorough oral hygiene. For questions or to schedule an appointment with our dentist, call our practice at The Dental Place today.