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Periodontics

What Are My Options if I Have Receding Gums?

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Inflammation around your gums may indicate you have gum recession and need to see a periodontist. Gum recession should always be treated to avoid further complications such as tooth loss. Receding gums are caused by periodontal disease, and this is when the tissue wears away and leaves more of your teeth exposed. Visiting our office regularly and practicing good oral hygiene habits at home can help to stay on top of gum issues and prevent them from getting worse.

Symptoms of Receding Gums

  • Red or swollen gums
  • Bad breath
  • Bad taste in your mouth
  • Loose teeth
  • Pain or tenderness in or around your gums or mouth

What Can Cause Gum Recession?

Gum recession can be caused by many things. The most common cause of gum recession is periodontal disease. Other common causes can include poor oral hygiene, age, medical conditions, injury, and tobacco use.

What Treatment Options Are Available?

Attending your regular dental exams is important, and part of these visits include monitoring and checking your gum tissue. Our team will take a good look at your gums and devise a treatment plan. Depending on how severe the gums are will determine the course of treatment.

If your gums look infected, we offer scaling and root planing which is a deep cleaning treatment to help with periodontal pockets. This treatment removes and cleans the plaque on the tooth and root surfaces. Scaling and root planing helps to shrink periodontal pockets, remove bacteria, and heal the gum tissue. This treatment also prevents further infection and keeps your gums looking and feeling great. After this treatment gums should recede less and be restored.

At home oral hygiene is very important to keeping your gums healthy. We will talk to you about the tooth brush you are using and discuss your oral hygiene habits. We may recommend a daily rinse to help rinse away plaque.

Interested in Finding Out More?

If you are interested in finding out more about treatments for receding gums, we encourage you to schedule a consultation in our office. This will give our team the opportunity to evaluate your gums and discuss any questions or concerns. Our team is here to help get you on the road to healthier gums!
To schedule your appointment contact our office, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you.

How Does Laser Dentistry Treat Gum Disease?

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laser teeth whitening

Laser dentistry is used for periodontal treatment when a patient has inflammation in the mouth or gums. Laser treatment is an effective way to battle gum disease and provides exceptional results. Gum disease is one of the most common diseases in patients, and if left untreated it can lead to receding gums or tooth loss.

Laser periodontal treatment removes the bacteria and tissue that is inflamed and infected. This procedure is gentle and leaves your gums intact. Laser treatment is minimally invasive, and is extremely successful in restoring the gums. This treatment helps to promote gum reattachment and promotes bone growth. In some cases, laser therapy has reversed gum disease.

Laser treatment is quick with a minimal recovery. The laser minimizes any bleeding, and helps to clot exposed blood vessels. This laser actually helps to make the treated area stronger, and healing time is faster.

How Does Laser Treatment Work?

During this treatment a laser is used to target the infected areas and remove any infected tissue and bacteria. The laser is extremely precise and does not compromise or reduce gum tissue. Once the infected are is removed, root scaling is done to scrape off any plaque that has built up around the gum line or roots of the teeth. We then smooth any rough areas that are prone to catching bacteria to prevent further infection.

Common Signs That Indicate You May Need Periodontal Laser Treatment

  • Tender, swollen or bleeding gums
  • Persistent bad breath
  • Pus surround gums or teeth
  • Gums that seem to be receding or moving away from the tooth

How Can I Schedule an Appointment?

Scheduling an appointment is your first step towards healthier gums. Our team will evaluate your mouth and teeth, and determine the proper treatment needed. Leaving swollen or infected gums untreated can cause serious issues. We encourage patients that are concerned with their gum health to schedule a visit in our office. We care about our patients and always provide the highest level of care.

To schedule your appointment contact our office, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you.

How to Get Rid of Swollen Gums?

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swollen gums

Our gums are sensitive, and if we do not practice good oral hygiene habits, they can become inflamed, painful, or infected. Gums are important and help to hold our teeth in place and protect our tooth roots. If gums are not taken care of, bacteria can spread and cause gum disease or other health problems. If you are experiencing swollen or tender gums, we encourage you to contact our office. Gum problems should be addressed promptly to avoid infection or other serious complications.

Why Are My Gums Swollen?

Swollen gums are a response after damage or an injury. If bacteria enter the gums this causes the gums to swell, and try and protect your body from the harmful bacteria. Swollen gums can be caused by your diet, dry mouth, poor oral hygiene, or dental appliances that may irritate the area. Symptoms of problems with your gums include bleeding, receding gums, pain, or swelling. If you experience any of these symptoms you must be seen right away to help stop the deterioration of your gums, and avoid infection.

What Can I Do at Home To Help Treat Swollen Gums?

There are many home remedies to help treat swollen or inflamed gums. Rinsing with salt water, tea tree oil, or aloe vera as a mouthwash can help to fight inflammation and heal your gums. Other home remedies include eating foods high in Vitamin D, using a warm or cold compress, or placing black tea bags on the inflamed area.

Home remedies are never a cure for swollen gums, but these remedies can help treat the problem. Anyone with swollen gums should always seek medical advice. The combination of medical treatment and home remedies can get you feeling better quickly. Treating swollen gums or gum disease takes time, and this depends on the severity of the inflammation or infection. Oral hygiene habits at home are extremely important in battling swollen gums and gum disease.

What Professional Treatments Are Available?

There are professional treatments for swollen gums, and depending on the severity of the inflammation will determine which treatment is best. If you have mild to moderate gum inflammation this can be treated with a thorough cleaning and improved oral hygiene habits at home. For severe cases, we offer treatments such as root planing and scaling, laser treatment, or pocket reduction surgery. These treatments can clean and remove the bacteria and tartar from underneath the gums, and repair gums from recession. If you have an infection or abscess our team can help determine the location of the infection, and provide you with antibiotics to help clear up the infection.

Continue to practice good habits at home with brushing and flossing to help heal your gums faster. Drink plenty of water, and get a proper amount of sleep to help your body fight off any bacteria. Avoid foods and drinks high in sugar, and follow a healthy lifestyle with proper exercise daily.

Interested in Finding Out More About Treatment for Swollen Gums?

If you have swollen gums and are in need of treatment, please contact West Cobb Periodontics. Our doctors have helped many patients treat swollen gums, and seeking professional help can avoid serious complications. We create a welcoming and calm environment and always provide the highest level of care.

Take that first step towards healthy gums, by calling West Cobb Periodontics today to schedule your appointment.

How to get Rid of a Gum Infection Without Using Antibiotics?

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get rid of a gum infection

When you have gum disease the first thing you probably think of is what home remedies you can try before seeing your dentist. Home remedies are a cheap and very effective way to treat gum disease, and catching it at the early stages can help. Practicing good oral hygiene habits is the first step towards treating a gum infection. Anytime you are experiencing extreme pain, sensitivity, bleeding, or have a fever you should always seek medical advice, and be seen in our office.

What Can I Do At Home?

  • Brush at least twice each day.
  • Rinse after each meal.
  • Floss daily.
  • Make sure you are using a proper toothbrush with soft bristles.
  • Use a natural mouthwash daily.
  • Attend your regular exams and cleaning appointments at your dentist.
  • Avoid foods and drinks high in sugar.
  • Avoid using any tobacco products or smoking.

Can I Use Salt Water to Help a Gum Infection?

Salt water is extremely effective in helping to heal gums affected by gum disease. Salt water can treat inflammation, ease pain, and reduce bacteria in the mouth and gums. Rinsing with salt water 2-3 times a day can be effective in battling a gum infection. Be careful to not rinse with salt water too often, as this can cause the salt to affect your tooth enamel. Other homemade mouthwash combinations can also be effective, such as lemongrass and oil, aloe vera, and tea tree oil.

Salt water can help to treat a gum infection, but this is not a cure. If you are experiencing symptoms of a gum infection you should contact our office and be seen as soon as possible. Antibiotics may have to be used to help clear up the infection and stop any further damage to your gums or jaw. Home remedies combined with professional help can clear up a gum infection, and get you on the road to recovery quickly.

Interested in Learning More?

If you think you have a gum infection or are experiencing symptoms that include bleeding, swollen gums, or fever, we encourage you to contact our office to be seen. Our staff will ensure you are seen promptly, help treat the infection and get you feeling better quickly. Infections can become serious and cause other health complications if they are not treated. At West Cobb Periodontics we treat our patients like family and always provide the very best service. Our doctors have years of experience in treating gum infections and love to help patients restore their smiles.

Contact West Cobb Periodontics today to schedule your appointment, and take that first step towards feeling better!

Can Salt Water Heal a Gum Infection?

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can salt water heal a gum infection

Gum disease is common in many adults, and today we have numerous choices to pick from on the store shelves to help maintain our oral health. Even with using these products and rinses to rid away bacteria and plaque, we still develop gum disease. Salt water is one of the oldest treatments and home remedies for any infection and many still use this method to treat gum infections.

What Is Gum Disease?

Gum disease is the build-up of bacteria and plaque underneath the gums. The bacteria grow if not treated, and over time you develop gum disease or periodontal disease. Gum disease should always be addressed promptly because it can lead to other complications such as tooth loss, gum recession, jawbone issues, and overall health conditions such as cardiovascular problems.

What Symptoms Indicate I May Have Gum Disease?

  • Bleeding, inflamed, or tender gums.
  • Gums that recede or pull away from your teeth.
  • Persistent bad breath.
  • Sensitivity to hot and cold
  • Teeth are loose or shifting out of place.

How Can Salt Water Help?

To help fight gum disease you can use a salt water rinse at home every day. Mix a teaspoon of salt water into a small glass of warm water. Do not swallow the water, but gently rinse the water around the mouth for between 15-30 seconds. When you are done spit the water out and repeat the process at least 3 times a day. Never rinse more than a few times a day. Over rinsing can cause the salt to damage the enamel on your teeth.

Salt water can help to remove the plaque and bacteria from your teeth and gums. Salt has healing properties that can treat and heal inflamed or swollen gums caused by gum disease. Even though salt water is extremely effective in helping to treat gum disease, salt water cannot cure gum disease. If you feel you have symptoms of gum disease, we recommend contacting our office and between professional help, and good oral hygiene habits, we can help you treat your gum disease quickly.

Do You Have Symptoms of Gum Disease and Want To Learn More?

If you have symptoms of gum disease and would like to learn more about treatments available, please contact West Cobb Periodontics. Our doctors have years of experience in periodontics and have helped many patients with gum disease. Gum disease should always be addressed promptly to avoid complications. Let our team help you restore your smile today!

To schedule an appointment with us, contact West Cobb Periodontics, and our team will be happy to assist you.

Why Would I Need a Gum Biopsy?

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gum biopsy

Keeping your gums healthy is important, and issues such as gum disease or oral cancer can affect not only your dental health, but your overall health if left untreated. Attending your regular appointments in our office can help to get in front of any gum issues before they become serious. Our staff will clean and polish your teeth, and we will also evaluate your gum health, and perform an oral cancer screening.

If during your appointment our team notices a lesion or area of concern, we may recommend a gum biopsy. A gum biopsy is when we test an infected area to identify what may have caused the abnormal tissue to develop. Gum biopsies are very important, and can help identify the issue or stage of cancer that requires treatment.

Symptoms of Gum Cancer

  • Bleeding gums
  • Thick or unusual looking gum tissue
  • Red, white, or dark patches on the gums
  • Gumline cracks

How Does a Gum Biopsy Work?

During a gum biopsy we remove a sample piece of tissue from you gums or jaw to determine the cause of the abnormality. Local anesthesia is used, and the procedure itself is minimally invasive. If the area is hard to reach, we may recommend general anesthesia, but this is rarely needed. A pathologist can take a look at the tissue sample, determine the cause, and check if the tissue is cancerous.

What Can I Expect After My Gum Biopsy?

After the biopsy is complete your gums may still feel numb from the anesthesia. This should wear off after a few hours. Patients may feel tender or sore near the area where the biopsy took place. This should subside after a few days. If you notice prolonged pain or swelling, we recommend contacting our office right away, so we can take a look at the area. Risk for infection is rare, and patients can return to normal activity after a day or two.

Gum biopsies can save lives, and help us treat the issue promptly before it becomes worse. Patients can reach out to their insurance provider to review their benefits, and check to see what coverage is available should you need a gum biopsy.

Ready To Find Out More?

If you have an area of concern, or are due for your regular dental exam and cleaning, contact West Cobb Periodontics & Implant Dentistry. Our doctors have years of experience in periodontics and treating gum disease, and love to help our patients. We always put your oral health first, and our passion is to help you keep your teeth and mouth healthy. Never hesitate to contact our office if you feel you have an issue or are in pain. Gum issues that are not treated can progress, and complications can occur if they are not treated promptly.

To schedule your appointment, contact West Cobb Periodontics & Implant Dentistry, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you!

Can You Lose Teeth in Your 30s Due to Periodontitis?

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lose teeth in your 30s

Periodontitis is also known as gum disease, and is a gum infection that damages soft tissue. This disease can destroy the bone and eventually cause tooth loss if not treated promptly. Periodontitis slowly progresses, and can advance quickly before you may even notice you have an issue.

During this advancement process you typically don’t feel anything, and the process is painless. Attending your regular exams and cleanings in our office is extremely important to stay on top of your teeth and gum health. Our doctors can get in front of issues quickly before they become a problem.

Many feel because they are still in their 30’s that they do not have to worry about developing periodontitis. However, your 30’s is when you start to see damage that is caused by not taking care of your teeth and gums in your younger years. Gum disease is very common amongst people in their 30’s, and this age group is when it starts for those that have maybe neglected their teeth when they were younger, or are genetically susceptible to gum disease. If periodontitis is not addressed this can lead to losing your teeth prematurely.

What Can I Do To Prevent Periodontitis?

If you want to prevent issues with your gums or inflammation you should start by evaluating your oral hygiene routine at home. Make sure you are brushing and flossing daily to help minimize your risk for developing gum disease. At West Cobb Periodontics & Implant Dentistry, your oral health is our priority, and when you visit our office, we perform a detailed evaluation of your gums and teeth to determine the condition of your gums. If we notice any issues, we will discuss them with you and may recommend changes to your oral care routine at home. Our staff can provide a personalized care program for you to follow, and this can help you stay on track with your oral hygiene at home.

Tips To Prevent Periodontitis

  • Attend regular cleanings and exams to remove plaque and tartar buildup, and to help detect signs of gum disease early.
  • Use a toothpaste that contains fluoride to help prevent cavities.
  • Brush for at least two to three minutes at least twice a day, and make sure to brush along the gum line.
  • Floss daily to remove the plaque in between your teeth.
  • Use a mouthwash to help rinse away plaque and bacteria, and keep your mouth feeling fresh.
  • Avoid tobacco products that can accelerate the deterioration process, and cause gum disease.
  • Exercise regularly and follow a healthy diet, avoiding foods with high levels of sugar.
  • Seek care right away to treat cavities or any other issues promptly.

Our job is to keep your teeth and mouth healthy, and we pride ourselves on quality dental care you can trust. Let our team at West Cobb Periodontics & Implant Dentistry help you take charge of your oral health, and prevent serious issues such as periodontitis from developing.

Interested in Making an Appointment?

If you think you may have gum disease or would like to schedule your exam and cleaning, contact West Cobb Periodontics & Implant Dentistry. Our doctors have years of experience in periodontics, and always provide the highest level of care to all of our patients. At West Cobb Periodontics & Implant Dentistry, we use state of the art technology in a welcoming and calm environment where patients know they are in good hands.

To schedule your appointment with us, contact West Cobb Periodontics & Implant Dentistry, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you.

Are There Side Effects Related To the Scaling of Teeth?

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Scaling of Truth

Scaling and root planing helps to clean the teeth and remove plaque on both the tooth and root surfaces. This periodontal procedure is done to deep clean and remove plaque buildup from the gums and teeth. If you have periodontal pockets or swollen gums, scaling and root planning can help restore your gums and prevent tooth loss.

What Can I Expect Before My Treatment?

Before your treatment you may be required to take antibiotics. There is risk of infection with scaling and root planing because of the bacteria that is cleaned out during the procedure. With a deep cleaning treatment, sometimes bacteria can be released into the bloodstream during the process.

Scaling and root planing may cause some discomfort. To keep patients relaxed and comfortable, we may apply topical or local anesthetic to the area. This numbs the gums where we are working. Minor bleeding and swelling may occur, but this should subside after a few days.

Other risks include issues with gum reattachment, gum recession, or nerve damage. These side effects are rare, and most patients have no issues after their treatment. The most common side effect is pain and sensitivity after the procedure.

How Is the Recovery Process?

Most patients experience pain and sensitivity after the procedure. This typically lasts between 5 to 7 days or up to a few weeks, and this varies per patient. To help with sensitivity we recommend eating a soft food diet, and avoid drinking any hot or cold beverages. Over the counter medications can be taken, and we recommend brushing and flossing regularly to keep up with your oral hygiene at home. Patients can rinse with warm salt water to ease the pain during recovery. Overall, the healing process is quick, and patients can return to normal activity soon after their treatment.

Scaling and root planing helps to stop gum disease, and promotes healing where your gums are inflamed. This procedure can eliminate bad breath and protect the roots of your teeth.

Interested in Finding Out More?

At West Cobb Periodontics & Implant Dentistry, we have years of periodontal experience, and love to help our patients. Taking care of your teeth and gums is important, and our team is here to help. Gum disease should always be treated, and can lead to more serious issues in the future if it is not addressed properly.

If you are interested in finding out more about how scaling and root planing can benefit you, contact West Cobb Periodontics & Implant Dentistry, and our friendly staff will assist you.

At What Stage of Decay do Teeth Begin to Fall Out?

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Teeth Fall Out

Decay can deteriorate our teeth and over time if not treated, the teeth can become loose and even fall out. Decay damages teeth and can cause dental abscesses that can become serious if not treated. When you have plaque build up the plaque uses the sugars in the food you eat to create acids. These acids are what damages and eats away at the enamel on our teeth.

During the decay process there are various phases that happen. These signs can indicate that you need to see your dentist to try and remove the plaque before it is too late. At West Cobb Periodontics & Implant Dentistry, we focus on prevention and teach our patients how to practice good oral hygiene habits at home. Taking care of our teeth from children through adulthood is important, and can prevent many serious issues as we get older.

What Are the Stages of Tooth Decay?

Plaque buildup can cover the surfaces of your teeth, and if you do not have your teeth cleaned regularly this plaque can turn into hard tarter. Once the tarter develops this makes it difficult to remove the bacteria that are causing the plaque.

Enamel Breakdown

The outer layer of your teeth is made up of enamel. Enamel is very durable and made of many minerals. When your teeth are exposed to plaque bacteria, the acids attack the enamel and break down. Some patients may notice white spots developing on their teeth. This indicates the decay has reached the enamel.

Decay of Enamel

Once the decay begins to attack the enamel of the tooth, the enamel will just continue to break down. If you notice a white spot on your tooth, this may turn darker or brown at this stage of decay. Eventually, cavities develop, and you must visit your dentist to have the area filled.

Effects on Dentin

Dentin is the layer beneath the enamel. This layer is a lot softer and not as durable as enamel. If acid reaches this layer, it can really cause damage quickly. Once the bacteria and decay reach the dentin of your tooth you may develop sensitivity to hot or cold.

Damage to the Pulp Area

If you notice swelling in or around a tooth this may indicate you have damage to the pulp area of the tooth. This area contains many nerves and blood vessels. When the pulp area swells, this can push on the nerves and cause severe pain.

Abscessed Tooth

If the decay has reached the pulp area of the tooth, the bacteria can cause an infection. You may notice pus around the area. Abscesses can cause severe pain in the mouth and jaw. Swelling may be present in the gums, face, or neck. If you think you have an abscess, we recommend calling our office right away. At this point treatment may require removing the tooth, or the tooth may fall out on its own.

What Treatment Is Available?

Depending on the level of decay and severity of damage will determine what treatment is required. Our doctors have years of experience in periodontics, and always have our patients’ best interest in mind. Our team will evaluate the area, and develop a customized treatment plan. We will discuss treatment options, and always try and save the tooth before we resort to removal.

If the patient only has decay in the enamel layer most likely a filling can correct the issue, and preserve the tooth. For teeth that have decay on the dentin layer, this may require a filling and a crown. When patients come in with pulp damage, a root canal may be needed to help save the tooth and clean out any infection. If the patient has an abscess and the damage is so severe that saving the tooth is not possible, we may resort to removing the tooth completely. If tooth removal is required, our team will discuss tooth restoration options to restore your smile.

At West Cobb Periodontics & Implant Dentistry your oral health is our priority, and we strive to provide the highest level of care to all of our patients. We use state of the art equipment, and use the latest tools and techniques in the dental industry. Our doctors and staff have specialized training for dental emergencies, and can handle any type of emergency that comes our way. 

Interested in Making an Appointment?

If you are in severe pain and think you have an issue with a tooth due to decay, contact West Cobb Periodontics & Implant Dentistry, and we can rid you of pain, and get you on the road to recovery. We provide quality and affordable dental care you can trust.

To schedule your appointment contact West Cobb Periodontics & Implant Dentistry, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you.

Can Gum Disease Cause Heart Disease?

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Gum Disease

Gum disease or periodontal disease is when you have inflammation of the gums. Gum disease breaks down the tissue around our teeth and gums, and if not treated can lead to tooth loss. In recent studies doctors have looked at the correlation between gum disease and heart disease. Heart disease is when the blood vessels around the heart are narrow or blocked.

What Is the Correlation Between Gum Disease and Heart Disease?

According to a research study in the American Journal of Preventative Medicine, people who treated their gum disease had less cardiovascular issues compared to other people that did not seek oral treatment. This indicates that gum disease does affect our heart health. Other studies have found that there is a direct link between our oral health and our heart health. Gum disease can increase a person’s risk of heart disease by 20 percent. The inflammation in the gums can cause narrowing of the arteries, and can result in heart conditions.

Gum disease is also linked to other conditions if not treated. These conditions include respiratory disease such as pneumonia, cancer, rheumatoid arthritis, and osteoporosis. If you have diabetes, research suggests that you may have a greater chance of developing gum disease in the future. This is due to the inflammation and the risk of infection.

How Can We Help?

At West Cobb Periodontics & Implant Dentistry, we focus on prevention and help patients take control of their oral health. If you notice inflammation of the gums, and think you may have gum disease, we encourage you to call our office. Gum disease can progress and lead to unstable teeth, or even tooth loss if not treated.

Taking care of your oral health is important because the health of your mouth is directly linked to your overall health.  Our team has years of experience in treating gum disease, and we give patients advice on how to take care of their teeth and gums at home. Practicing good oral hygiene is important as well as attending your regular visits to our office. Dental exams can ensure your gums look healthy, and allow our team to get in front of any issues before gum disease develops.

Ready to Schedule Your Appointment?

If you are due for your regular dental exam and cleaning, or are concerned you may have gum disease, contact West Cobb Periodontics & Implant Dentistry, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you. We provide honest and quality dental care you can trust, and we look forward to you joining our dental family.

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CONTACT

44 Old Hamilton Rd
Suite 200
Marietta, GA 30064
United States

(770) 802-2222

info@westcobbperio.com

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