Beyond the Smile: The Vital Role of a Periodontist in Oral Health

When it comes to oral health, the unsung heroes working diligently behind the scenes are often the periodontists. These specialized dental professionals play a crucial role in preserving not just your teeth but the very foundation that supports your radiant smile. Let's explore the world of periodontics and uncover the vital contributions of these dental guardians.

Gum Warfare: The Battle Against Periodontal Disease

Periodontists are the commanders in the ongoing battle against periodontal disease, a silent intruder that can wreak havoc on your gums and the bones supporting your teeth. From gingivitis to advanced periodontitis, these specialists are adept at diagnosing, treating, and preventing the progression of gum diseases that, if left unchecked, could compromise your overall oral health.

Building Strong Foundations: Periodontists as Architects of Oral Support

While regular dentists focus on your pearly whites, periodontists zoom in on the intricate structures that anchor your teeth—the gums and bones. They are the architects of strong foundations, addressing issues like gum recession, bone loss, and tissue damage to ensure your teeth have a sturdy base for years to come.

Beyond Cleanings: Scaling and Root Planing

While dental hygienists perform routine cleanings, periodontists take it a step further with specialized procedures like scaling and root planing. These deep-cleaning techniques target the removal of plaque and tartar from below the gumline, a critical step in preventing and managing periodontal disease.

Surgical Expertise: Navigating Advanced Cases

In cases where non-surgical methods may not suffice, periodontists bring their surgical expertise to the forefront. Procedures such as gum grafting, bone grafting, and pocket reduction surgeries fall within their purview, providing comprehensive solutions for patients dealing with advanced gum issues.

Implant Masters: Restoring Smiles with Precision

When tooth loss occurs, periodontists shine as masters of dental implants. These specialists skillfully place implants in the jawbone, mimicking the natural tooth's structure. The result? A restored smile that not only looks and feels natural but also maintains the integrity of the surrounding tissues.

Collaborators in Comprehensive Care: Team Players in Dentistry

Collaboration is key in the world of dentistry, and periodontists are exemplary team players. They work hand-in-hand with general dentists, orthodontists, and other specialists to ensure a holistic approach to your oral health. This collaborative spirit ensures that every aspect of your dental care is seamlessly integrated for optimal results.

In essence, periodontists are the guardians of not just your teeth but the entire ecosystem of your oral health. Their expertise extends far beyond the realm of cleanings, reaching into the intricate world of gum health, bone preservation, and surgical interventions. The next time you flash your radiant smile, remember the unsung heroes—the periodontists—working diligently to keep it shining bright and healthy.

How Long Do Dental Implants Last? Factors that Affect Longevity

Dental implants are a popular solution for people who have lost one or more teeth. They offer a permanent solution for missing teeth, but many people wonder how long dental implants will last. The longevity of dental implants depends on several factors, including:

Implant Quality:

The quality of the implant itself can affect how long it lasts. High-quality implants made from materials like titanium or zirconia are more durable and have a longer lifespan than lower-quality implants.

Oral Hygiene:

Good oral hygiene is crucial for the longevity of dental implants. Poor oral hygiene can lead to gum disease, which can cause the implant to fail. Brushing twice a day, flossing regularly, and visiting the dentist for regular cleanings can help maintain the health of the implant and surrounding tissues.

Smoking:

Smoking can have a negative impact on the longevity of dental implants. Smoking can slow down the healing process, increase the risk of implant failure, and lead to gum disease. Quitting smoking can improve the chances of a successful implant.

Bite Force:

Excessive bite force can put stress on the implant and cause it to fail. Avoiding hard, crunchy foods and wearing a night guard can help reduce bite force and prolong the life of the implant.

In general, dental implants can last anywhere from 10 to 25 years or even a lifetime with proper care and maintenance. Regular checkups with your dentist can help identify any issues early on and prevent implant failure. By taking care of your oral health and following your dentist's recommendations, you can ensure the longevity of your dental implants and enjoy a beautiful, functional smile for years to come.

Rediscovering Your Smile: The Magic of Full Mouth Rehabilitation

Are you tired of hiding your smile due to dental issues that have plagued you for years? Full mouth rehabilitation might be the transformative solution you've been searching for.

What Is Full Mouth Rehabilitation?

Full mouth rehabilitation, also known as full mouth reconstruction or smile makeover, is a comprehensive dental procedure aimed at restoring the health, function, and aesthetics of your entire mouth. It goes beyond just addressing one dental problem; it's a holistic approach to improving your oral well-being.

The Art and Science of Full Mouth Rehabilitation

This dental marvel is a unique blend of art and science. Skilled dentists carefully analyze your oral condition, considering factors like tooth alignment, color, shape, gum health, and bite functionality. The goal is not just to fix issues but to create a harmonious, beautiful smile that boosts your confidence.

Common Reasons for Full Mouth Rehabilitation

• Severe Tooth Decay: Years of neglect or dental issues can lead to widespread tooth decay that necessitates a full-mouth overhaul.
• Trauma: Accidents or injuries can damage multiple teeth or the entire mouth structure.
• Gum Disease: Advanced periodontal disease can result in tooth loss and damaged gums, requiring extensive reconstruction.
• Worn or Misaligned Teeth: Over time, teeth can become worn, chipped, or misaligned, affecting both function and aesthetics.
• Congenital Conditions: Some individuals are born with dental conditions that necessitate extensive correction.

The Process

Full mouth rehabilitation typically involves a series of steps:

• Comprehensive Evaluation: Your dentist assesses your oral health, takes X-rays, and discusses your goals.
• Treatment Planning: A personalized treatment plan is created, detailing the procedures and timeline.
• Treatment Execution: This may involve a combination of restorative dentistry procedures like crowns, bridges, implants, veneers, and orthodontics.
• Follow-Up Care: Regular check-ups are essential to ensure the success of the rehabilitation and maintain your new smile.

The Benefits

• Enhanced Aesthetics: Say goodbye to dental imperfections and hello to a dazzling smile.
• Improved Function: Full mouth rehabilitation restores proper chewing and speaking capabilities.
• Boosted Confidence: Your newfound smile can boost your self-esteem and enhance your overall quality of life.
• Oral Health: By addressing underlying issues, it can improve your oral health and prevent future problems.

Conclusion

Full mouth rehabilitation is a transformational journey that can give you a smile you've always dreamed of, while also restoring your oral health and function. Consult with a qualified dentist to discover how this remarkable procedure can be tailored to meet your unique needs and bring back your radiant smile. Say hello to a brighter, more confident you!

Gum Disease: Types, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a common dental problem that affects millions of people worldwide. It is caused by bacteria that form on the teeth and gums, leading to inflammation and damage to the surrounding tissues. In this blog, we will discuss the types, symptoms, and treatment options for gum disease.

Types of gum disease

There are two main types of gum disease:

• Gingivitis: This is the milder form of gum disease and is characterized by inflammation of the gums. Symptoms include red, swollen, and bleeding gums.
  
  
• Periodontitis: This is a more severe form of gum disease that can lead to tooth loss. It occurs when the bacteria that cause gingivitis spread to the bone and other tissues that support the teeth.

Symptoms of gum disease

The symptoms of gum disease may vary depending on the severity of the condition. Some common symptoms include:

• Red, swollen, or tender gums
• Bleeding gums when brushing or flossing
• Receding gums
• Loose teeth
• Persistent bad breath
• Changes in bite or the way teeth fit together

Treatment options for gum disease

Treatment for gum disease may vary depending on the severity of the condition. Some common treatment options include:

• Professional cleaning: A dental professional can perform a deep cleaning to remove the buildup of bacteria and plaque that can lead to gum disease.
  
  
• Scaling and root planing: This is a more extensive cleaning procedure that involves removing bacteria and tartar from beneath the gums.
  
  
• Antibiotics: In some cases, antibiotics may be prescribed to help kill the bacteria that cause gum disease.
  
  
• Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be required to repair damage to the gums and surrounding tissues.

Preventing gum disease

Preventing gum disease is the best way to avoid the need for treatment. Some effective ways to prevent gum disease include:

• Brushing twice a day
• Flossing daily
• Using mouthwash
• Eating a healthy diet
• Quitting smoking

Gum disease is a common dental problem that can lead to serious health issues if left untreated. By recognizing the symptoms and seeking treatment early, you can help prevent further damage to your teeth and gums. Additionally, by practicing good oral hygiene and adopting healthy habits, you can help prevent gum disease from developing in the first place.

Tooth Extraction: When and Why it's Necessary

Tooth extraction is a common dental procedure that involves removing a tooth from its socket in the jawbone. In this blog, we will discuss when and why tooth extraction may be necessary.

When is tooth extraction necessary?

• Severe decay or damage: If a tooth has been severely damaged or decayed, it may be necessary to remove it to prevent further damage to the surrounding teeth and gums.
  
  
• Crowding: If there is not enough space in the mouth for all of the teeth to properly align, a tooth may need to be removed to create more space.
  
  
• Infection or abscess: If a tooth is infected or abscessed, it may need to be extracted to prevent the spread of infection to other parts of the body.
  
  
• Gum disease: In cases of advanced gum disease, tooth extraction may be necessary to prevent the spread of the disease and protect the surrounding teeth and gums.
  
  
• Wisdom teeth: Many people have their wisdom teeth removed because they can cause crowding, infection, and other dental problems.

Why is tooth extraction important?

Tooth extraction is important because it can prevent further damage to the surrounding teeth and gums, and protect your overall dental health. If a damaged or infected tooth is left untreated, it can lead to more serious dental problems and even impact your overall health.

Recovery from tooth extraction involves following your dentist's instructions for caring for the extraction site, including avoiding certain foods and activities and maintaining good oral hygiene. With proper care, most people can return to their normal activities within a few days after the procedure.

Tooth extraction is a common dental procedure that may be necessary in cases of severe decay or damage, crowding, infection or abscess, gum disease, or wisdom teeth. It is important because it can prevent further damage to the surrounding teeth and gums, and protect your overall dental health. If you think you may need a tooth extraction, talk to your dentist about your options and what to expect.

How cancer treatment can affect your oral health

More than 1 million Americans are diagnosed with cancer each year and many of them will develop problems with their oral health as a result of their cancer treatment.

While it’s natural that they’ll be focused on their cancer treatment, it’s important not to overlook the importance of a dental examination as part of the process of maintaining overall health.

For example, radiation therapy of the head and neck area may lead to certain complications such as dry mouth, sensitive lesions in the oral cavity, hypersensitive teeth, rapid tooth decay and difficulty swallowing.

Chemotherapy and other medication can also have significant effects in the mouth.

To help prevent, minimize and manage such problems, the dentist and oncologist can work together – before and during cancer treatment.

Many medications lead to dry mouth, which can lead to a higher risk of gum disease and other problems. The dentist may therefore recommend a saliva replacement, an artificial saliva that is available over-the-counter at pharmacies.

Frequent fluoride applications may also be recommended.

If you are receiving treatment, schedule regular screenings with your dentist and contact your dentist or physician immediately on any sign of mouth infection. This may have serious implications for your overall health.

Your dentist and physician both want your treatment to be as safe and effective as possible.

Tips for people with difficulty handling a toothbrush

There are many people who find it difficult to look after their dental health properly because they have problems handling a toothbrush.

This can be due to a severe physical disability or simply basic dexterity problems.

There are a few simple steps you can take to make it easier for people who find it difficult to hold on to a toothbrush or dental floss.

Here are some simple ‘home remedies’:

•  Use a wide elastic band to attach the brush to the hand
•  Enlarge the brush handle with a sponge, rubber ball or bicycle handle grip
•  Wind an elastic bandage or adhesive tape around the handle
•  Lengthen the handle with a piece of wood or plastic such as a ruler, popsicle stick or tongue depressor
•  Tie floss into a loop for easier handling
•  Use an electric toothbrush or commercial floss holder

Your dentist will be able to provide specific guidance and further tips for people who need an easier way to handle a toothbrush and floss.

The Dental Implant Procedure: Step-by-Step Guide

Dental implants are a popular solution for people who have lost one or more teeth. If you're considering dental implants, you may be wondering what to expect during the procedure. Here's a step-by-step guide to the dental implant procedure:

Step 1: Consultation and Examination

The first step in the dental implant procedure is a consultation with your dentist. They will examine your mouth and jaw to determine if you are a good candidate for dental implants. This may involve taking x-rays or other imaging tests.

Step 2: Implant Placement

Once you have been deemed a good candidate for dental implants, the next step is the implant placement surgery. During this surgery, your dentist will make an incision in your gums and drill a small hole in your jawbone. They will then insert the implant into the hole and close the incision with sutures.

Step 3: Osseointegration

After the implant has been placed, it will take several months for it to fuse with your jawbone in a process called osseointegration. During this time, you will need to avoid putting any pressure on the implant to allow it to heal properly.

Step 4: Abutment Placement

Once the implant has fully fused with your jawbone, your dentist will place an abutment on top of the implant. This serves as a connector between the implant and the artificial tooth or teeth.

Step 5: Tooth Restoration

Finally, your dentist will attach the custom-made artificial tooth or teeth to the abutment. These teeth are designed to look and function like natural teeth, so you can eat, speak, and smile with confidence.

The dental implant procedure involves several steps, including a consultation and examination, implant placement surgery, osseointegration, abutment placement, and tooth restoration. Your dentist will guide you through each step of the process and help you achieve a beautiful, functional smile with dental implants.

Types of Dental Implants: Which is Right for You?

Dental implants are a popular solution for people who have lost one or more teeth. However, there are several different types of dental implants, and it can be confusing to determine which one is right for you. In this blog post, we'll take a look at some of the most common types of dental implants and what they're best suited for.

Endosteal Implants:

Endosteal implants are the most common type of dental implant. They are shaped like small screws and are surgically implanted into the jawbone. Once the implants have fused with the jawbone, they serve as a sturdy foundation for the artificial tooth or teeth.

Subperiosteal Implants:

Subperiosteal implants are a less common type of dental implant that are placed on top of the jawbone, just beneath the gum tissue. They are typically used for people who have a shallow jawbone and are not good candidates for endosteal implants.

Zygomatic Implants:

Zygomatic implants are a specialized type of implant that are used for people who have significant bone loss in the upper jaw. They are anchored in the cheekbone instead of the jawbone and provide a strong foundation for artificial teeth.

All-on-4 Implants:

All-on-4 implants are a popular option for people who need to replace multiple teeth or even a full arch of teeth. They involve placing four implants in strategic locations in the jawbone and attaching a custom-made denture to the implants. This provides a strong, stable foundation for the denture and eliminates the need for messy adhesives.

In conclusion, there are several types of dental implants available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Your dentist can help you determine which type of implant is right for you based on your specific needs and goals. If you're interested in dental implants, talk to your dentist to see which option is best for you.

What will it be like living with dentures?

People who are new to wearing dentures naturally have many questions about how their life will change.

New dentures may feel awkward for a few weeks until you become accustomed to them. The dentures may feel loose while the muscles of your cheek and tongue learn to keep them in place.

During this time, it’s not unusual to experience minor irritation or soreness. You may find that saliva flow temporarily increases.

As your mouth becomes accustomed to the dentures, these problems should diminish.

Dentures can be made to closely resemble your natural teeth so that little change in appearance will be noticeable. Dentures may even improve the look of your smile and help fill out the appearance of your face and profile.

Eating will take a little practice. Start with soft foods cut into small pieces. Chew slowly using both sides of your mouth at the same time to prevent the dentures from tipping. As you become accustomed to chewing, add other foods until you return to your normal diet.

Continue to chew food using both sides of the mouth at the same time. Be cautious with hot or hard foods and sharp-edged bones or shells.

Initially you may also find that wearing dentures changes how you speak. Pronouncing certain words may require practice. Reading out loud and repeating troublesome words will help. If your dentures “click” while you’re talking, speak more slowly.

You may find that your dentures occasionally slip when you laugh, cough or smile.

After your dentures are fitted, you’ll have a few follow-up appointments with your dentist to take care of any initial issues and to answer any questions you have.

What is a Periodontist and What Do They Do?

A periodontist is a dental specialist who focuses on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of periodontal disease, also known as gum disease. Periodontists are experts in the structures that support the teeth, including the gums, bone, and ligaments.

Periodontists have advanced training in treating all stages of gum disease, from gingivitis to advanced periodontitis. They also perform cosmetic procedures to improve the appearance of the gums and teeth, such as gum grafting and crown lengthening.

Some of the procedures that a periodontist may perform include scaling and root planing, which involves cleaning and smoothing the tooth roots to remove plaque and bacteria, and periodontal surgery, which can help regenerate bone and gum tissue.

Periodontists also work closely with other dental professionals, such as general dentists and oral surgeons, to provide comprehensive care for their patients.

If you are experiencing symptoms of gum disease, such as bleeding gums, bad breath, or receding gums, it is important to schedule an appointment with a periodontist. Early detection and treatment can prevent the progression of gum disease and help you maintain a healthy smile.

What Are Dental Implants and How Do They Work?

If you have lost a tooth or multiple teeth, dental implants can provide a permanent solution that looks and feels like natural teeth. But what are dental implants, and how do they work? Let's take a closer look.

Dental implants are small, titanium posts that are surgically implanted into your jawbone. Once in place, they serve as a sturdy foundation for a custom-made artificial tooth or teeth. Unlike dentures or bridges, dental implants do not rely on adjacent teeth for support.

The process of getting dental implants typically involves several steps. First, your dentist will examine your mouth and jaw to determine if you are a good candidate for dental implants. They may also take x-rays or other imaging tests to assess your jawbone density and determine the best placement for the implants.

Next, the implants are surgically placed into your jawbone. Over time, the implants will fuse with your jawbone in a process called osseointegration. This creates a strong, stable base for the artificial tooth or teeth.

Once the implants have fully fused with the jawbone, your dentist will attach abutments to the top of the implants. These abutments serve as connectors between the implants and the artificial teeth.

Your dentist will attach the custom-made artificial tooth or teeth to the abutments. These teeth are designed to look and function like natural teeth, so you can eat, speak, and smile with confidence.

Dental implants are a permanent solution for tooth loss that involve surgically implanting small titanium posts into your jawbone. Over time, the implants fuse with your jawbone to create a strong foundation for artificial teeth that look and function like natural teeth. If you are interested in dental implants, talk to your dentist to see if they are a good option for you.

The causes of bad breath

Bad breath – also known as halitosis – is an unpleasant condition that can cause a great deal of embarrassment.

And, for many people, it’s made even worse by the fact they don’t even know that they have it.

There are many possible causes for bad breath so, if you think you might have the problem, talk to your dentist.

What you eat affects what you breathe out. Certain foods, such as garlic and onions, contribute to objectionable breath odor and even dieters may develop unpleasant breath from infrequent eating.

If you don’t brush and floss daily, particles of food remain in the mouth, collecting bacteria, which can cause bad breath.

Bad breath can also be caused by dry mouth (xerostomia) which occurs when the flow of saliva decreases.

One of the reasons why it’s especially important to talk to your dentist about bad breath is that it may be a sign of an underlying medical problem such as respiratory tract infection or gastrointestinal problems.

Persistent bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth can also be a warning signs of gum disease.

Smoking can also cause bad breath, stain teeth and reduce your ability to taste foods.

For all these reasons, you shouldn’t put up with the problem of bad breath. Talk to your dentist and find out what might be causing the problem.

How to make your smile brighter

Your smile makes a huge difference to what people think about you and how you feel about yourself.

And there are many options available to help you improve the look and brightness of your smile, including:

In-office bleaching: During chair-side bleaching, the dentist will apply either a protective gel to your gums or a rubber shield to protect the oral soft tissues. A bleaching agent is then applied to the teeth, and a special light may be used to enhance the action of the agent.

At-home bleaching: There are several types of products available for use at home, which can either be dispensed by your dentist or purchased over-the-counter. These include peroxide bleaching solutions, which actually bleach the tooth enamel. Peroxide-containing whiteners typically come in a gel and are placed in a mouth guard.

Whitening toothpastes: All toothpastes help remove surface stain through the action of mild abrasives. “Whitening” toothpastes include special chemical or polishing agents that are more effective at removing stains. However, unlike bleaches, they don’t alter the intrinsic color of teeth.

Start by speaking to your dentist. He or she will tell you if whitening procedures would be effective for you as whiteners may not correct all types of discoloration.

Gum disease

Gum disease, also known as periodontitis, is a serious condition that affects the gums and surrounding tissues of the teeth. It is caused by plaque buildup, which can harden into tartar and lead to inflammation and infection of the gums. If left untreated, gum disease can result in tooth loss and other serious health problems.

Treatment for gum disease depends on the severity of the condition, but here are some common approaches:

Scaling and root planing: This is a deep cleaning procedure performed by a dentist or periodontist. Scaling involves removing plaque and tartar buildup from above and below the gum line. Root planing smoothes the root surfaces of the teeth to prevent future buildup.

Antibiotics: If the gum disease is caused by bacterial infection, antibiotics may be prescribed to kill the bacteria and reduce inflammation. Antibiotics can be applied directly to the gums, taken orally, or delivered in a slow-release form.

Surgery: In severe cases of gum disease, surgery may be necessary to remove the affected tissue and promote healing. Types of surgical procedures include flap surgery, bone and tissue grafts, and guided tissue regeneration.

Medications: In addition to antibiotics, certain medications can be prescribed to help control gum disease. These may include antimicrobial mouth rinses, enzyme-blocking agents, and anti-inflammatory drugs.

Good oral hygiene: Proper brushing and flossing at home, along with regular dental cleanings, is essential for maintaining good oral health and preventing gum disease from progressing.

It's important to seek treatment for gum disease as soon as possible, as the condition can worsen quickly and lead to serious health problems. If you are experiencing symptoms such as red, swollen, or bleeding gums, pain when chewing, or loose teeth, it's a good idea to see your dentist or periodontist right away. With prompt treatment, gum disease can usually be effectively managed and the progression of the disease can be stopped.

How to stop your dentist using too much jargon

Having a good relationship with your dentist means they should be able to explain things clearly to you and talk to you in language you understand.

The challenge for the dentist is that, as with any type of medical and professional training, they have to learn many unusual and technical terms.

This jargon has a purpsoe as it allows professionals to communicate clearly with each other on the same basis.

But often there is no need to use this terminology with the patient. Using these terms becomes a habit and they forgat to translate for the patient.

Soemtimes. it’s easier to say what you are thinking to a patient rather than have to translate it into something he or she will understand. And the dentist is usually thinking using the jargon.

Many common dental words such as restoration (filling), dentition (set of teeth) and occlusion (how the teeth come together) can easily be translated into terms patients understand.

Your dentist wants to help you understand as much about your dental health as possible so they would prefer that you stop them and ask what terms mean or simply ask them to speak in plain English.

They often slip into jargon out of habit or because it allows them to communicate more easily with others on the team.

They want you to get the treatment you need and be satisfied. So they won’t mind if you stop and remind them to communicate more effectively.

How to make visiting the dentist easy for kids

Your child should have their first trip to the dentist by the time they are 18 months old and it’s good to make the process as easy as possible for them from the start.

Dental staff are used to dealing with young children and they will know how to make them feel comfortable.

Sometimes, children under three may be treated on the parent’s lap. In this case, the parent sits in the dental chair facing the dentist, and the child is on their lap.

The dentist will tell the child what he or she is going to do in terms they can understand. They will usually have fun dental toys they can use to help.

They will start with an oral examination checking the teeth present and looking at the development of the jaw, gums and soft tissues.

Naturally, as in any new situation, some children are initially unsettled but this is usually short-lived as they get used to it.

Parents can help by ensuring they are calm and relaxed as any anxiety will transfer to the child.

With older children, the parents may stay in the background though sometimes children behave better when the parent is not in the room!

Work with your children and your dentist to find the best way of ensuring they get the treatment they need with minimum worries for everyone.

Root canal treatment

Root canal therapy is an important treatment that can save a tooth with a diseased nerve and which in the past would probably have needed to be removed.

Inside each tooth is the ‘pulp’ which runs like a thread down through the root and provides nutrients and nerves to the tooth. It is the soft tissue that contains nerves, blood vessels and connective tissue.

If the pulp is diseased or injured, the pulp tissue dies.

The most common cause of pulp death is a cracked tooth or a deep cavity. Both of these problems can let bacteria enter the pulp.

So, if you don’t remove it, your tooth gets infected and you could lose it.

After the dentist – or endodontist (a dentist who specializes in problems of the pulp) – removes the pulp, the root canal is cleaned and sealed off to protect it. Then your dentist places a crown over the tooth to help make it stronger.

Most of the time, a root canal is a relatively simple procedure involving one to three visits with little or no discomfort.

Your restored tooth could last a lifetime, if you continue to care for your teeth and gums and enjoy regular checkups.

Diabetes and your dental health: How your diet can affect your teeth

When diabetes is not controlled properly, high glucose levels in saliva may create problems that lead to an increased risk of tooth decay.

Your teeth are covered with plaque, a sticky film of bacteria. After you eat food that contains sugars or starches, the bacteria react with these sugars to release acids that attack tooth enamel. This can cause the enamel to break down and may eventually result in cavities.

Brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and cleaning between your teeth with floss or an interdental cleaner helps remove decay-causing plaque.

Plaque that is not removed can eventually harden into calculus, or tartar. When tartar collects above the gumline, it becomes more difficult to clean thoroughly between teeth. This can lead to chronic inflammation and infection in the mouth.

Because diabetes reduces the body’s resistance to infection, the gums are among the tissues likely to be affected.
Periodontal diseases are infections of the gum and bone that hold your teeth in place. Patients with inadequate blood sugar control appear to develop periodontal disease more often and more severely, and they lose more teeth than those who have good control of their diabetes.

Because of the lower resistance and longer healing process, periodontal diseases often appear to be more frequent and more severe among persons with diabetes.

You can help reduce these risks through good maintenance of blood sugar levels, a well-balanced diet, good oral care at home and regular dental checkups.

What’s involved in getting a dental implant?

Dental implants are increasingly popular as a way to replace missing or damaged teeth.

Their great advantage is that they look natural and feel secure helping you to restore your smile and eat more easily.

Implants are an ideal solution for many people but they are not an option for everyone.

Placing implants requires some surgery so patients must be in good health, have healthy gums and have adequate bone to support the implant.

They must also be committed to taking action to maintain their oral hygiene and to visiting the dentist regularly.

The process for placing implants is as follows:

First, surgery is performed to place the anchor. This can take up to several hours. Following the surgery, you may need to wait up to six months for the bone to grow around the anchor and firmly hold it in place. Sometimes follow up surgery is required to attach a post to connect the anchor to the replacement teeth. Alternatively, the anchor and post may already be attached and are placed at the same time.

After the gums have had several weeks to heal, the next step is to fit specially-made artificial teeth to the post portion of the anchor. This can take a few weeks to complete as several fittings may be required.

Implant surgery can be done either in a dental office or in a hospital, depending upon a number of factors. A local or general anesthetic may be used. Usually pain medications and, when necessary, antibiotics are prescribed.

After your implants are fitted, your dentist will give you tips and advice on maintaining your oral hygiene.

Your dentist can help you decide whether you would be a good candidate for implants.