Despite being largely preventable, nearly 50% of adults over the age of 30 have some form of periodontal disease. By age 65, more than 70% of people have some form of periodontal disease, according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). So how can you ensure you’re amongst those who avoid periodontal disease? It starts with simple, but consistent habits.
Practice Excellent Oral Hygiene Habits at Home
There is nothing more effective at preventing periodontal disease than practicing excellent oral hygiene habits at home. This means that you should brush your teeth for a full two minutes at least twice a day. However, if you can brush your teeth after each meal, that’s even better.
You also need to floss your teeth daily to prevent periodontal disease. Although it can take some getting used to, a water pick flosser is efficient for removing debris from the gum line, than traditional dental floss.
See the Dentist Twice a Year
All children and adults need a professional dental cleaning twice a year to remove plaque. Plaque is constantly forming on the teeth. If it isn’t removed, it hardens to the teeth in the form of tartar. The tartar that builds up under the gum line is a leading cause of the first stage of gum disease, known as gingivitis.
Seek Treatment for Teeth Grinding
Grinding your teeth puts damaging pressure on the tissues that support the teeth. This can lead to loosened teeth, and deep gum pockets, which makes you more susceptible to gum disease. A night guard can immediately stop you from grinding or clenching your teeth while you sleep.
Replace Missing Teeth With Dental Implants
If you have a tooth extracted, or lose a tooth due to another reason, it’s important to replace the missing tooth as soon as possible. Dental implants are the gold standard for replacing missing teeth because they preserve the jaw bone, and last for decades.
Treat Diseased Pockets With Laser Dental Procedures
Gum disease occurs in stages. In the early stages, treatments, such as pocket depth reductions using soft tissue lasers can not only treat the current infection but can reduce the size of the pockets so that bacteria is less likely to accumulate. Laser treatments can also help regenerate new gum tissue, and help the gum tissue reattach to the bone.
Seek Immediate Treatment for Symptoms of Periodontal Disease
If you experience symptoms of periodontal disease the worst thing you can do is ignore them, or delay treatment. Periodontal disease will not go away on its own. If you experience any of the following symptoms of periodontal disease, it is crucial that you seek treatment right away.
- Bleeding gums
- Receding gums
- Tender gums
- Loose teeth
- Pain in the teeth or gums
Periodontal disease has been linked to serious and often chronic diseases and health conditions. Untreated periodontal disease increases your risks of:
- Heart Disease (coronary heart disease, infective endocarditis, heart attack)
- Stroke
- Pregnancy Problems (premature birth, low birth weight)
- Lung/Respiratory Infections (pneumonia)
- Osteoporosis (low bone density)
Schedule Treatment for Periodontal Disease Today
If you’ve been diagnosed with gum disease, it’s best to turn to a specialist for treatment. Periodontists are dentists who have completed additional training, education, and certification in the prevention, and treatment of periodontal disease. To schedule an appointment at Periodontal Associates in Framingham or Newton, MA, contact us today or send us a message to request an appointment.
Periodontal disease is a bacterial infection of the gums, bones, and other tissues supporting teeth. Periodontal disease can lead to tooth loss if not treated promptly.
What causes periodontal disease?
Periodontal disease is a progressive condition that occurs when bacteria in the mouth build up and irritate the gums, leading to inflammation, gum recession, and eventual bone loss.
The bacteria in your mouth form plaque, which can lead to gum disease if not removed regularly. Periodontal disease may be influenced by age, genetics, and lifestyle factors such as smoking or drinking alcohol excessively.
Poor oral hygiene increases the risk of periodontal disease because it allows bacteria to accumulate on teeth and gums, leading to plaque build-up and allowing bacteria to settle in the area between your gum line and tooth surface (also known as pocketing).
How do I know if I have periodontal disease?
If you notice any of these symptoms, see your dentist as soon as possible:
- Red, swollen, or painful gums.
- Bleeding when flossing or brushing your teeth.
- Halitosis (bad breath) that doesn’t go away.
- Receding gums.
- Loose teeth.
What are the risks of periodontal disease?
Tooth loss. If left untreated, periodontal disease can lead to tooth loss.
Diabetes complications. Because diabetes impairs circulation and the immune response, it makes it more difficult for the body to fight infection. Diabetics are therefore at greater risk of developing periodontal disease. This means that even minor infections like those caused by plaque buildup can cause serious problems—including heart attack, stroke, or kidney failure—if they go untreated.
Increased risk of heart attack and stroke: Researchers at UCLA found that people with severe periodontal disease were more than twice as likely to develop coronary heart disease than those with healthy gums. Another study found that people with poor oral health were nearly twice as likely to suffer a stroke.
How is periodontal disease treated?
Periodontal treatment is based on your individual needs. Many people can be treated with non-surgical periodontal therapy, which includes scaling and root planing (deep cleaning)—a procedure that removes plaque and tartar from the tooth surface below the gum line. Scaling and root planing help reduce pocket depths, which can improve gum health and reduce your risk of tooth loss.
Antibiotic therapy may be prescribed if you have an infection caused by periodontal disease or if antibiotics are necessary before any other treatment begins. Antibiotics work by killing bacteria that cause infections.
In some cases, surgery may be necessary to help prevent further damage to your teeth or gums. Surgical treatments for periodontal disease can include flap surgery or gum grafting. During flap surgery, the gum tissue is lifted away from the tooth so that the roots and jawbone can be treated. In grafting procedures, tissue is taken from one part of your mouth and placed in another to help anchor loose teeth or repair areas damaged by periodontal disease.
Depending on the severity of your periodontal disease, you may require one or more treatments to restore your oral health.
What can I do to prevent periodontal disease?
There are several things you can do to prevent periodontal disease. The most important is keeping your teeth and gums healthy:
- Brush your teeth twice a day, and floss daily. Fluoride toothpaste helps strengthen the enamel of your teeth.
- Schedule regular dental checkups (at least twice a year) to ensure that there are no problems in the mouth that need attention.
- Maintain a healthy diet and lifestyle. Avoid high-sugar foods that can cause tooth decay, don’t use tobacco products, and limit alcohol consumption because too much can weaken tooth enamel.
Periodontal Associates Specializes in the Treatment of Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease is treatable, but it’s best to catch it early for the best possible outcome. If you have any symptoms of periodontitis or are interested in further information about the treatment of periodontal disease, consult a dentist or periodontist.Call (508) 875-6185 today to schedule an appointment at our Framingham office or (617) 964-6185 for our Newton Centre office. We look forward to helping you maintain your oral health.
Dental bridges are incredibly effective dental restorations that fill gaps in the mouth left by missing teeth. On average a dental bridge will last more than seven years. However, many people find that a dental bridge can last much longer, provided they practice excellent oral hygiene habits, and the bridge is placed correctly. Unfortunately, for various reasons, the bridge may need to be replaced sooner. Here’s what to know about replacing and recementing a dental bridge.
Reasons Your Dental Bridge May Need to Be Replaced
A dental bridge is a fixed dental restoration, rather than a removable restoration such as a full or partial denture. Dental bridges attach to crowns to fill the space where teeth are missing. The crowns cover existing teeth on either side of the space between teeth, or they are attached to dental implants.
Between the two crowns is a false tooth (pontic) that replaces your missing tooth/ teeth. For most people, this restorative prosthesis works perfectly. But in other cases, problems may develop over time that will require the removal of your dental bridge. These problems include:
- Tooth decay
If the natural teeth underneath the crowns begin to decay, the stability of the bridge becomes compromised. Tooth decay beneath the crown is often the result of a bridge that doesn’t fit properly. An ill-fitting bridge can lead to a buildup of tartar, and calculus underneath the crown, damaging the natural tooth. This will require the removal and replacement of the bridge.
- Gum Disease
Gum disease, such as gingivitis or the more severe form of the disease, periodontitis can require the removal of a dental bridge. Unfortunately, having a dental bridge does increase your risk of developing gum disease. Most people will be able to prevent it, with regular dental cleanings, brushing twice a day, and flossing daily. However, some people are naturally more susceptible to gum disease than others. Mild gum disease, if caught early, can often be resolved without removing your bridge. Advanced gum disease will likely require the removal of your dental bridge.
- Cracks in Crowns or False Tooth
If you develop a crack (fracture) in either of your crowns or the false tooth between the crowns, you may need to have your bridge removed. Small fractures can likely be repaired without removing the entire bridge. But a significant crack in any of the foundational components of a dental bridge will require removal.
About Dental Cement
Loose or poor-fitting bridges are the easiest to remove. These can often be recemented after removal. If you need to have a bridge removed for another reason, including to treat periodontitis or tooth decay under a crown, your bridge and adjacent teeth are at risk of damage during the removal process. This is because dental cement is specifically designed to create an incredibly strong bond that lasts for many years. In these cases, removing the bridge will require the use of a drill, and it’s unlikely the bridge can be recemented. In this case, you will likely need a new bridge or consider an alternate solution such as dental implants.
How To Care for Your Dental Bridge
Dental bridge failure is often the result of poor oral hygiene habits. Failing to brush, floss, and see your dentist for regular cleanings can lead to decay, and the destabilization of teeth. To avoid this, see your dentist at least twice a year for cleanings, and schedule an appointment if you have any pain, or if your bridge feels loose.
Chewing on hard items, such as pens, candies, or ice can also lead to bridge failure, as these habits often lead to fractures in the crowns or the artificial tooth. These habits should be stopped immediately.
Grinding your teeth when stressed, or when sleeping can also damage a dental bridge. If you grind your teeth, ask your dentist about a night guard to protect your teeth.
Treatment for Gum Disease & Dental Implants in Framingham and Newton, MA
If you’ve been diagnosed with gum disease, or want to learn more about dental implants to replace missing teeth, request an appointment at Periodontal Associates today. Our practice uses the latest innovations and technology, including laser dentistry to treat gum disease, including reducing pocket depth to prevent recurring gum disease. Schedule a consultation today!
Framingham Office: 508-875-6185
Newton Office: 617-964-6185
Dental implants are a long-lasting replacement for your own natural teeth. Durable, just like your own teeth, with good oral hygiene, they’re permanent replacements. The implant will fuse to your jawbone directly, replacing not just your external tooth, but strengthening your jawbone as well as the bone surrounding it.
What are Implants?
With a 95% success rate, implants can be used in a number of different ways. Each type of implant is made for a purpose, whether that is to replace a single missing tooth, multiple teeth, or serve as a support system for replacing many teeth.
All implants have three different parts: the artificial tooth root acts as a base for the replacement tooth; a metal frame is attached to the base, and is designed to hold an artificial tooth; and then there is the artificial tooth itself, which fills any gaps between your teeth.
Implants support and assist with your jawbone health and that of other teeth, as well as improving your smile.They can also help you to speak more clearly, too. And, because implants are just like your natural teeth, you care for them as you would your own teeth.
Use the same good kind of dental hygiene that you do for your own natural teeth, in other words:
- Brush them and floss twice a day
- Schedule your regular 6 month check-ups and cleanings with your dentist
What Type of Metal is Used in Dental Implants?
Dental implants are commonly made from titanium. The titanium is medical-grade, and it is chosen because it is extremely highly biocompatible and it is also strong, so the implant post can fuse with your jawbone around it.
Different Types of Implants
There are four main kinds of implants, including:
- Single Tooth Dental Implants
- Multiple Teeth Replacement Implants
- All-on-Four Implants
Single Tooth Implants
The most typical implant type is a single tooth dental implant. Inserted in the jawbone surgically, the implant replaces your missing tooth without any damage to your surrounding teeth. That single implanted tooth is just like your natural tooth as to how it looks and functions.
Multiple Teeth
If you’re missing three or more adjacent teeth, an implant-supported bridge can be used.
The implants replace the two outermost missing teeth. A porcelain bridge between them covers the remaining gap.
All-on-4 Implants
If you’re missing all your teeth in an upper or lower arch, all-on-four implants can be used as anchors. Just these four implants cano support a full replacement arch.
All-on-4 implants are both fully durable and functional, supporting your jawbone and making use of your available bone to help prevent the need for a bone graft. Once these implant posts are placed, then your artificial teeth are attached. This kind of implant is frequently recommended because of its comfort, permanence, and excellent functionality instead of traditional dentures.
Are You Ready to Learn More about Implants?
If you’re ready to learn more about dental implants, just give us a call. We can help you with the replacement of any damaged or missing teeth. If you want to find out more about implants, we’re here to help. Just reach out today!
Whether you are looking for a natural tooth replacement for one tooth, a few teeth, or an entire mouth of teeth, dental implants are the gold standard.
Every time you lose a tooth, the teeth surrounding the now empty space become vulnerable. They may begin to shift, causing your bite to fall out of alignment – and this can lead to many additional oral health concerns.
You can prevent this by investing in tooth replacement, such as dental implants.
What are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are a type of artificial tooth replacement that looks incredibly real – and functions just like a real tooth, too. A titanium post becomes an artificial root and is implanted into the jaw bone. Once they are fused together, an abutment is then added to the top of the implant in order to hold the artificial tooth – or dental crown – in place.
These implants come with some great benefits, too. They are not subject to decay so you will never need a root canal treatment, they cannot stain, and they help to preserve the jaw bone. Patients who have them are quick to say that they feel and function just like a natural tooth.
Dental implants have a very high success rate and are meant to last a long time. Keep in mind that while the post may last, the dental crown will likely need to be replaced every 10 to 15 years. Though it can last longer with exceptional treatment.
The great news is that dental implants are not a one-size-fits-all sort of deal. Different types serve different purposes based on your need. Let’s take a look.
Types of Dental Implants
There are 3 main types of dental implants. Choosing which one is best for you will be determined by how many teeth you are missing.
Single Dental Implant. For patients with one missing tooth, a single dental implant can be used. It will fill in the space where there is a missing tooth and allow you the opportunity to reduce the risk of any oral health issues that stem from leaving the space empty.
Dental Implant-Supported Bridges. To replace multiple teeth, a dental bridge can help – as long as the teeth are in a consecutive row. Traditional bridges require the filing down of the natural teeth on either side and a crown placed on these perfectly healthy teeth. With a dental implant bridge, you don’t have to use the surrounding teeth to support the bridge as the implant will do all the work.
Dental implant bridges are a long-lasting solution that has a high success rate – especially when compared to other options.
Dental-Implant Supported Dentures. Missing all your teeth, whether on the top, bottom, or both, often requires dentures in order to be able to maintain a decent quality of life. But, traditional dentures usually need to be replaced every 5-7 years and can feel loose and unstable within the mouth. Dental implant-supported dentures are a new, welcomed option. Using about 4 dental implants, they are able to hold an entire arch. This gives stability and comfort – not to mention that their appearance and function are just like that of real teeth.
Choosing the Best Type of Dental Implants
When it comes to dental implants, you can work with your dentist to choose the best one for your needs. This will depend on how many teeth you are missing and where they are missing. Either way, you will find that dental implants offer a long-term, highly functional solution for replacing missing teeth.
Are you a candidate for dental implants? Do you want to see which one would be the best option for you? Then Periodontal Associates is here for you.
Contact us today at the office most convenient for you:
Framingham Office 508-875-6185
Newton Office 617-964-6185
Or, request an appointment online.
Periodontal disease is a serious gum infection that can damage gums, destroy jawbone, loosen teeth or even cause the loss of one or more teeth. Fortunately, periodontal treatment can stop the disease before it causes significant damage.
What is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease usually starts as the result of plaque, which is a sticky film composed mainly of bacteria. Plaque forms when the starches and sugars in food combine with bacteria that live in the mouth. Plaque can cause gingivitis, an early form of periodontal disease that causes swollen, tender and bleeding gums. Brushing easily removes plaque.
When left in place, plaque hardens into a hard-to-remove tartar that irritates the gums to cause inflammation, which can cause pockets to develop between teeth and gums. Plaque, tartar and bacteria can fill the pockets, causing the pockets and infection to deepen. Left untreated, deep infection can destroy tissue and bone, which allows teeth to loosen or fall out. Dentists refer to this late stage of periodontal disease as periodontitis.
Treatment for Periodontal Disease
Treatment for periodontal disease depends largely on the stage and severity of the gum infection. Periodontists, who are dentists with advanced training in the diagnosis and treatment of periodontal disease, may suggest non-surgical or surgical treatments.
Non-surgical treatments for periodontal disease
In its early stages, periodontal disease often responds well to less invasive, non-surgical treatments.
Scaling
In this procedure, the periodontist uses special instruments, ultrasonic devices or even lasers to remove tartar and bacteria from the surfaces of teeth and beneath the gums.
Root planing
During root planing, the periodontist uses special tools to smooth the root surfaces, which discourages the further buildup of bacteria and tartar. Root planing also removes any bacterial byproducts that may contribute to inflammation, slow down healing, or delay the reattachment of the gum back onto the surface of teeth.
Antibiotics
Topical or oral antibiotics can help control bacterial infection. Topical antibiotics involve rinsing with antibacterial mouthwashes or inserting antibiotic gels into the pockets between teeth and gums. Oral antibiotics may be necessary to eliminate infection-causing bacteria.
Surgical treatments
Surgical treatments may be necessary to treat advanced periodontitis.
Flap surgery
Also known as pocket reduction surgery, flap surgery exposes the roots for more effective scaling and root planing. To perform flap surgery, the periodontist makes several incisions in the gum to allow a section of gum tissue to be gently pulled back to expose the roots for scaling and root planing. In cases of bone loss, the periodontist recontours the underlying bone before suturing the gum tissue back in place after flap surgery.
Soft tissue grafts
The loss of gum tissue causes the soft tissue of the gumline to recede. Treatment for receding gumline involves reinforcing the damaged soft tissue with tissue taken from other sources, such as from the roof of the patient’s mouth or from another donor source. Soft tissue grafts help prevent the gum from receding more; it can also cover exposed roots and give teeth a more pleasing aesthetic appearance.
Bone grafting
Bone grafting is necessary when periodontal disease has destroyed bone surrounding tooth roots. This procedure involves replacing damaged bone with small fragments of the patient’s bone, synthetic bone, or donated bone. The graft also holds the tooth in place and supports the regrowth of natural bone.
Periodontists may also perform advanced procedures, such as guided tissue regeneration and tissue-stimulating proteins. For more information about the treatment of periodontal disease, consult with a dentist or periodontist.Call (508) 875-6185 today to schedule an appointment at our Framingham office or (617) 964-6185 for our Newton Centre office. We look forward to providing you with top quality periodontal care.
Oral surgery designed to stimulate new bone growth in the jaw is known as bone regeneration. The procedure is performed by experienced periodontists, often in preparation for dental implant surgery. However, it may also be performed as a preventive procedure to safeguard against tooth loss. Dental bone regeneration may also be performed to improve a sunken facial appearance or to create space during a sinus lift surgery. Here’s what you need to know about dental bone regeneration.
What Causes Jawbone Loss?
The jawbone, which is responsible for anchoring your teeth, and for connecting your jaw to your skull may deteriorate for several reasons. Most of the time, jawbone loss is caused by missing teeth. When teeth and their roots are extracted, the jawbone has nothing to attach to, so it begins receding.
Serious gum disease known as periodontitis can also cause bone loss in the jaw. This is because untreated bacterial infections which spread to the living cellular tissues of the jawbone can significantly damage the bone.
Dental trauma can also lead to jawbone loss. This typically happens as the result of the development of an infection after a tooth has been broken or completely knocked out. Finally, jawbone loss may result from tumors and cancers.
Why Do I Need Bone Regeneration in My Jaw?
If you are referred for dental bone regeneration it is because you have experienced a significant loss of bone, and need to stimulate new growth. If you are planning to replace missing teeth with dental implants, your implant specialist will first have to confirm that you have sufficient jaw bone to support the implants. In other words, the jawbone must meet certain height and density requirements. If your jawbone has deteriorated, you’ll need bone regeneration before you’ll be approved for implant surgery.
In other cases, you may elect to have bone regeneration to correct premature aging due to a sunken facial appearance. Other patients may be referred for dental bone regeneration to prevent future tooth loss and dental problems. Finally, you may need to have this surgery after a serious gum infection that damaged the jaw bone.
What is the Procedure for Regenerating Dental Bone?
Dental bone regeneration involves bone grafting. During a bone graft, an incision will be made in the gum to expose the underlying bone. Any active infection will be removed or cleaned out. Then a graft material will be placed in the bone. The graft will either be harvested from your own body, secured from a tissue bank, or synthetic material may be used. After the graft material has been placed, a membrane to prevent downgrowth of the gum into the bone may also be placed.
During the surgery, Plasma Rich in Growth Factors (PRGF) may be injected to help maximize bone regeneration and to expedite the healing process. This plasma is taken from your own body. It requires a simple blood draw which is then put in a centrifuge that separates the growth factors so that they are concentrated. That very concentrated plasma will be injected into the site of the graft.
The science behind using PRGF in dental bone regeneration is similar to Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) injections which are commonly used to expedite healing following an orthopedic injury
Jawbone Regeneration in Massachusetts
Contact Periodontal Associates in Framingham or Newton Centre, MA to learn more about dental bone regeneration. For more than 30 years, Dr. Feuerman and Dr. Castellucci have been able to predictably regenerate bone around natural teeth, restore your facial structure, or prepare for dental implant surgery.
Framingham Office: 508-875-6185
Newton Centre Office: 617-964-6185
Periodontitis is one word that strikes fear in many adults, and for good reason. The CDC has estimated that more than 47% of adults have periodontal disease by the age of 30. By age 65, approximately 70% of people have some form of the disease. That explains why dentures and dental implants have become so normal, that most people expect to need them eventually.
The good news is that you don’t have to live in fear of periodontal disease. When you understand what it is and what causes it, you can take preventative actions. You should also know the symptoms of periodontal disease so that you can catch it while it’s possibly curable.
What is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease is also known as periodontitis. It’s a medical condition that involves inflammation and infection in the gums and bone supporting teeth. It damages soft tissue and bone structure in the mouth over time and can lead to a receding gum line and potentially tooth loss.
The primary cause of periodontitis is an overgrowth of bacteria. That occurs when the teeth and gums aren’t cared for properly over time. If you make brushing and flossing a routine part of your day and visit your dentist for a cleaning on a regularly scheduled basis, you have a good chance of avoiding gum disease and keeping your teeth into old age.
Early Signs of Periodontal Disease
Periodontitis starts out as gingivitis. You may notice that your gums bleed when you brush or floss your teeth. Your gums may also just seem more tender than usual. If you look closely, you may also see plaque build up along your gum line.
In some cases, gingivitis is present with no apparent signs. If you’re visiting your dentist regularly for cleanings, they can alert you to signs noticeable from their experienced eye. Without those cleanings, you may not know you have periodontal disease until a later stage.
Signs of more developed periodontal disease include:
- Chronic bad breath
- Swollen gums
- Bleeding gums
- Pain when brushing or flossing
- Gum recession
- Tooth loss
- Sensitivity to cold and hot
What Happens if Periodontitis Isn’t Treated Properly?
Losing your teeth may seem like the most devastating long-term impact of untreated periodontal disease, but it can get worse. Severe gum infections can lead to inflammation and infection throughout the body. It can increase your chances of heart disease in addition to leaving you in need of dental implants or dentures.
Bad breath and bleeding gums can also interfere with your social and professional life. More advanced gum disease often means your gums start bleeding with any irritation, even if you aren’t brushing or flossing. It can take a toll on your self-confidence over time.
What to Do If You Think You Have Periodontal Disease
It’s easier to treat gingivitis than it is the more advanced periodontal disease. Preventative care includes brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing at least once a day, and seeing your dentist for a professional cleaning regularly.
If you have been neglecting oral care and you notice signs of periodontal disease, it’s urgent to schedule a cleaning with a local dentist. They can determine if you have gum disease and tell you what stage you are in if you do. The longer you wait, the more expensive it will become to treat the condition and the more likely you are to lose teeth.
If you have gum disease, it’s important to seek treatment as soon as possible. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Cooper, contact us today at 516-627-4151.
Making the decision to get dental implants is a step in the right direction for the future of your oral health. But just like your real teeth, your dental implants require a level of care, as well. This is how you can ensure their longevity and keep them looking great, too.
It all starts with properly cleaning your dental implants – and here’s how you do it.
Cleaning Your Implants
Keeping your dental implants clean is much like keeping your teeth clean. You just want to take extra care to avoid causing any harm or damage. Follow these steps.
Brush Your Teeth
You will want to make sure you are using a soft-bristled toothbrush as anything harder may cause damage to your gums and cause bleeding. If you prefer, you can use an electric toothbrush. Manual or electric soft-bristled toothbrushes will both work to remove things like tartar and plaque while still keeping your teeth healthy and safe.
Make sure you brush at least two times per day. Though if you can brush after every meal, that’s even better. First thing in the morning you should brush your teeth to remove any bacteria that developed overnight — and rid yourself of that nasty morning breath. Brushing again before bed helps remove any buildup from the day and keeps plaque and decay at bay while you sleep.
Floss Regularly
Flossing is important. It gets all the buildup of debris and particles that have been tucked away in between and around your teeth. Known as an oral irrigator, a water flosser allows you to safely floss your teeth using water. This is one of the best tools for thorough flossing — and is usually highly recommended by dentists.
If you do not have a water flosser, using a fuzzy crown flosser is your next best option. It will help you get in between areas and clean them without risking dislodging your crown. It is not likely to happen, but not tugging on it with floss from underneath will keep it healthy and secure.
Floss daily – at least once – to maintain good oral hygiene.
Increase the Life of Your Dental Implants With These Tips
Sometimes you just need to learn the tips that will transform the way you approach your oral health. And when it comes to implants, there are a few things you should know.
- Use non-abrasive toothpaste. Or a low-abrasive option. This would be one that doesn’t include whitening agents or baking soda. These are too abrasive and can cause damage to implants, making them look dull and worn.
- When brushing, use a soft-bristled angled toothbrush so you can reach up under the abutment/post while brushing to keep it extra clean.
- Visit your dentist regularly. Deep cleanings can only be received at your dentist’s office – and they are important to protect your dental implants. So make your appointment every 6 months and keep it!
Learn More About Dental Implants at Periodontal Associates
Whether you have one missing tooth or a mouthful of missing teeth, dental implants can have a positive impact on your overall quality of life. If you are interested in learning more, then the professionals at Periodontal Associates can help.
Call our office today to schedule an appointment at one of our two convenient locations.
Framingham Office: (508) 875-6185
Newton Office: (617) 964-6185
Or schedule an appointment online.
As the world around us grows and advances, we choose to move with it and take advantage of all it has to offer. In the dental world, laser dentistry is one of those advances. It has allowed dentists in all types of settings to treat patients effectively, comfortably, and with much fewer risks.
Let’s take a closer look at laser dentistry and what it is used for.
Laser Dentistry
Laser dentistry is a thin beam of focused light that has the energy to get through several different dental treatments. Approved by the FDA, there are two different types of lasers used in dentistry – those designed to treat hard tissue such as teeth and those to treat soft tissue, such as gums.
Hard tissue lasers are strong enough to cut through bone – hence why they are used in procedures involving the teeth. They are accurate and precise, cutting the tooth only where needed and minimizing the invasiveness of the tissues. Dentists most commonly use these for finding cavities, prepping the tooth for a filling, and even dealing with tooth sensitivity.
Soft tissue lasers – those most used in a periodontal office – are designed with soft gum tissue in mind. As the gum gets cut by the laser it simultaneously seals off any exposed blood vessels. This helps to reduce bleeding as well as reduce the chance of infection. Healing is quicker, too. Many procedures involving the gums can be safely and effectively handled using these lasers with great results.
The more dentists use lasers in their dentistry work, the more they experience the potential and powerful benefits they provide.
Common Laser Dentistry Procedures
While lasers may not be able to handle all dental procedures, they are capable of handling many, including:
- Crown lengthening
- Pocket reduction (for those with gum disease)
- Gum contouring
- Frenectomy
- Soft tissue folds
- Tooth decay
- Hypersensitivity
- Preparation for dental fillings
And it does all of these things in a much less invasive manner than if they were done using traditional dental tools.
Benefits of Laser Dentistry
The benefits of laser dentistry are plentiful. Most patients who experience it tend to find that it is a much more pleasant experience than traditional procedures. Of course, this isn’t the only benefit that comes from taking advantage of the new technology.
Local anesthesia may not be necessary. It depends on the patient and the procedure, but local anesthesia is often not needed with laser dentistry. And, if it is, it is often less than you’d typically receive for a regular dental procedure.
Less blood loss. The highly-focused light beam of lasers aids in the clotting of exposed blood vessels, greatly reducing blood loss.
The chance of infection is significantly lower. Thanks to the ability of the laser to sterilize the area, the risks of infection are much lower.
Healing time is reduced. Laser procedures are less invasive so the healing time is greatly reduced.
Reduce dental fear. Dental fear and anxiety are very common issues for many patients – and it often stems from the sounds and the manner in which dental procedures are traditionally handled. However, laser dentistry is much more comfortable and makes the experience much more tolerable for those with hesitations.
Take Advantage of All That Laser Dentistry Has to Offer
Imagine being able to have your natural teeth and gums restored to health without any invasive dental procedures. At Periodontal Associates, we strive to stay on top of the latest technology so that we may provide our patients with the best treatment options – and that includes laser dentistry.
If you would like to learn more about laser dentistry and how you can benefit from it, reach out to one of our convenient locations:
Framingham Office 508-875-6185
Newton Office 617-964-6185
Or, request an appointment online.