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Periodontics

What Should I do About My Periodontal Pockets?

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Periodontal Pockets

If you notice your gums are inflamed or receding, you may be wondering what procedures are available to help shrink periodontal pockets. When gums are loose and no longer fit snug around your teeth, this can cause bacteria and plaque to collect underneath the gums. This can cause severe damage to your gums and teeth, and if not treated can result in unstable teeth, or even tooth loss.

At this point brushing and flossing can not reach the bacteria that is deep down in the infected pockets of your gums, and you need to contact a periodontist. There are a few different procedures available to help shrink or fix periodontal pockets and prevent bacteria or plaque from collecting in the future.

What Treatments Are Available to Treat Periodontal Pockets?

Scaling and Root Planing

Scaling and root planing helps to deep clean in and around the periodontal pockets. This procedure removes the plaque and bacteria on the tooth and underneath the gum line. Scaling and root planing helps to shrink periodontal pockets and can heal gum tissue. This treatment prevents further infection, and keeps your teeth and gums looking and feeling great. After scaling and root planing most patients notice their gums recede less, and they are restored.

Gingival Flap Surgery

Gingival flap surgery is when the gum tissue is folded back and the diseased tissue is removed. The gum is then secured back into place, and the area is smoothed out to prevent bacteria from entering in the future.

Gingivectomy

This procedure removes overgrown tissue around your teeth by cutting it away. This can help patients clean their teeth easier, and stops bacteria from collecting in the gums.

Gingivoplasty

A gingivoplasty procedure helps to reshape gum tissue around the teeth. During this procedure gum grafts can be used, and stitched into place where the gums have receded.

The treatment needed will depend on the severity of the patient’s periodontal pockets. During our consultation process we perform a detailed evaluation and develop a customized treatment plan. Our doctors will discuss the recommended treatment, and talk to the patient about all of their options to treat their periodontal pockets. Treating gum disease is very important, and can save you a lot of trouble in the future.

At West Cobb Periodontics & Implant Dentistry, we have years of experience in periodontics, and love to help patients restore their gums and smile. Let our team help you take that first step towards healthier gums with one of our periodontal gum treatments.

Interested in Finding Out More About Periodontal Pocket Treatment Options?

If you are interested in finding out how periodontal pocket treatments can benefit you, please contact West Cobb Periodontics & Implant Dentistry, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you.

Is Tooth Sensitivity Permanently Curable?

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Tooth Sensitivity

Tooth sensitivity is a common problem, and many patients encounter pain or discomfort when they eat certain foods that are hot or cold. According to the Academy of General Dentistry, around 40 million adults suffer from sensitivity. Usually, the pain is temporary and can be treated to improve, but not cure the condition.

At West Cobb Periodontics & Implant Dentistry, we provide many general dentistry services including treatment for patients that suffer from sensitivity. We strive to provide quality dental care in a caring and friendly environment, where patients can relax during their treatment. We welcome new patients to our practice, and look forward to you joining our dental family.

What Causes Tooth Sensitivity?

Tooth sensitivity can happen suddenly, and to anyone. Typically, symptoms of sensitivity include a sudden sharp pain when your teeth are exposed to cold, hot, or acidic foods. Tooth sensitivity can also come after you brush or floss your teeth. Teeth whitening can cause sensitivity after treatment, so patients should consider this when they are deciding to start a whitening regimen.

Our teeth are protected by enamel, and underneath the enamel is a layer of dentin. Dentin is soft, and if the enamel on your teeth is worn down, or your gums have receded the dentin can become exposed. Dentin can be exposed from cavities or cracks in your teeth. The dentin is connected to the nerve area, and this is what can cause pain or sensitive teeth.

Other Actions That Can Cause Sensitivity

  • Brushing too vigorously
  • Gum recession from periodontal disease
  • Gingivitis
  • Teeth grinding or clenching
  • Cracked or injured teeth
  • Plaque
  • Acidic foods or drinks
  • Dental procedures such as sensitivity after a filling
  • Teeth Whitening treatments

What Treatments Are Available for Tooth Sensitivity?

Tooth sensitivity can never completely go away, but there are treatments available that can help alleviate the sensitivity you experience. If you are experiencing any sensitivity, we recommend you make an appointment for an exam in our office. We can treat sensitivity easier if we know that is what is causing you pain. Never leave pain untreated as this could lead to more serious issues in the future.

Sensitivity Treatments

  • Using a toothpaste for sensitive teeth.
  • Changing to a soft bristled tooth brush.
  • Use a mouthwash that contains fluoride.
  • Avoid acidic foods or drinks.
  • Avoid clenching or grinding your teeth.
  • Inlays or bonding can help fix a tooth and decrease sensitivity.
  • Gum grafts can help protect the root area of the tooth.
  • Fluoride gel or varnish treatment can help protect your teeth from wear and tear.
  • Root Canal therapy if needed can help with severe tooth sensitivity, but this is typically the last resort.

Taking care of your teeth and knowing when to call your dentist is important. Patients should never have prolonged pain or sensitivity to hot or cold. It is always important to take care of your oral health, and practice good habits at home. At West Cobb Periodontics & Implant Dentistry, your oral health is our priority, and we strive to provide our patients with quality and affordable dental services. Let our team help you take charge of your dental health.

Ready To Schedule Your Appointment?

If you are interested in finding out more about treatments for tooth sensitivity, contact West Cobb Periodontics & Implant Dentistry, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you.

Do People with Gum Disease Die Earlier?

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People with Gum Disease

Gum disease is a serious problem, and if not addressed can cause many different health issues in the future. One of the most important things in life is to take care of your teeth and gums. Our mouths are linked to many other parts of our body, and the health of the oral cavity is important in keeping your body healthy.

At West Cobb Periodontics & Implant Dentistry, we are proactive about your oral health. Attending regular visits to our office for your exam can prevent serious issues, and allows our team to monitor your oral health. Gum disease should never been left untreated. If you think you may have gum disease or inflammation, we encourage you to contact our office.

Is There a Link Between Gum Disease and Risk of Death?

Gum disease involves inflammation and infection. This requires your immune system to attack the infection and work overtime. The constant inflammation can cause damage to your body over time. Inflammation is dangerous and is linked to cancer and other medical conditions. Medical conditions such as heart disease or diabetes are serious, and can develop in patients that suffer from gum disease.

Our teeth are used for eating and allow us to consume nutrition. If you are missing your teeth due to gum disease, you may miss out on the vital nutrition needed to stay healthy. Patients that can not eat normally may resort to foods or drinks that are not as healthy, or have a higher sugar content.

The best way to prolong your life is to keep your body healthy. This starts with prevention and good oral and overall hygiene. Brushing and flossing each day along with visiting your dentist can get in front or any issues with gum disease early, and prevent future medical conditions that may jeopardize your life.

West Cobb Periodontics & Implant Dentistry offers many periodontal treatments as well as tooth replacement, and restoration options for our patients. Take charge of your oral health and schedule your consultation today. We will give you a thorough exam, and create a customized treatment plan that works for you.

Our facility provides a comfortable and relaxing setting using state of the art technology. Our doctors have years of experience in periodontics and restoration, and can help restore your smile.

Let West Cobb Periodontics & Implant Dentistry help you take charge of your oral health and get you on the road to healthier gums!

Interested in Finding Out More?

If you think you may have the start of gum disease, or would like to find out more information on gum disease treatments, contact West Cobb Periodontics & Implant Dentistry, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you.

Can a Water Flosser Heal Periodontal Disease?

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Water Flosser

If you suffer from periodontal disease good oral hygiene is extremely important at home. If a patient has periodontal disease, they may have periodontal pockets which are areas under the gum where bacteria can collect over time. This can cause inflammation, infection, bone, and tooth loss.

At West Cobb Periodontics & Implant Dentistry, we provide many periodontal services for patients that have periodontal disease. Scheduling a consultation in our office allows our doctors to look at your teeth and gums, and determine the best course of treatment. Depending on the severity of your gums, will determine what treatment is needed.

Can Using a Water Flosser Help?

If you have periodontal disease traditional cleaning methods at home can not reach the bacteria properly. These methods are not able to clean deeply enough where the gums are inflamed. To help your oral hygiene routine at home and treat periodontal disease, using a water flosser can make a difference. Water flossers are easy to use and can reach up to 90% of your gum pocket.

A water flosser can remove plaque and improve your gum health. The flosser has a soft rubber tip that is gentle and does not irritate the gums. If you have severe periodontal pockets, we may recommend gum surgery in our office. Our periodontal pocket reduction procedures help to remove bacteria from those deep pockets, and eliminate areas where bacteria can collect in the future. Our procedures also promote healthy bone growth.

We recommend scheduling a consultation in our office for an exam to determine what treatment is best for you. During your consultation our staff will take x-rays, discuss your health history, and create a customized treatment plan. This allows the patient to ask any questions, and discuss concerns they may have with our team.

If you notice inflammation or have receding gums this should be treated. Gum recession that is left untreated can develop into more serious issues in the future.

Interested in finding Out More?

If you are interested in finding out more about treating periodontal disease at home, or what in-office treatments are available, please contact West Cobb Periodontics & Implant Dentistry, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you.

What Can I Do at Home To Prevent Gum Disease?

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prevent gum disease

Preventing inflammation around your gums starts with your at home oral hygiene routine. Gum disease or periodontitis is a gum infection that damages the soft tissue, and can destroy the bone if not treated promptly. Gum disease is a slow process and can advance in same cases before you notice there is an issue. The advancement process is typically painless, and attending your regular exams in our office is key to making sure your gums and teeth are healthy.

Daily oral hygiene at home helps to keep your teeth and mouth healthy and can prevent gum disease from developing. Brushing and flossing daily are ways to keep your mouth looking and feeling great, and also minimizes your risk for developing gum disease.

When patients visit our office we discuss your oral health, and recommend changes to your oral care routine at home if we see a need for improvement. Our highly trained staff can develop a personalized care program for you to follow at home.

At Home Oral Hygiene Recommendations To Prevent Gum Disease

  • Attend regular dental exams to remove plaque buildup and tartar, as well as to detect any signs of gum disease early.
  • Brush for two to three minutes at least twice a day, and make sure to brush along the gum line.
  • Use a toothpaste with fluoride to help prevent cavities.
  • Floss daily to remove plaque from in-between your teeth and places where your toothbrush can not reach.
  • Use a mouth rinse that can help to rinse away and reduce plaque buildup.
  • Avoid any tobacco products which can cause gum disease.
  • Follow a healthy diet and avoid foods and drinks with high levels of sugar.
  • Exercise regularly
  • Make sure to have cavities and any other issues fixed as soon as possible.

Part of our cleaning and exam process is to perform a detailed evaluation of the gums. We will discuss both the health of your teeth and gums, and recommend treatment if necessary. Your oral health is our priority, and our staff is here to help keep your teeth and gums healthy.

Looking To Make an Appointment?

If you are interested in making an appointment, or notice an issue with the health of your gums such as bleeding or irritation we encourage you to visit our office. Prevention is important, and treating symptoms early can help avoid more serious issues in the future.

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

How Can I Tell if I Need a Periodontist or an Endodontist?

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Dentist

Knowing which type of dentist to call can be stressful. Both periodontists and endodontists are oral health specialists, and have been trained as dentists. Each specialist has additional training, and understanding those details can help you decide which is best for you.

Periodontists

A periodontist is a dentist who specializes in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of periodontal disease. This type of dentist specializes in dental implants and other cosmetic procedures. Periodontists receive three additional years of education in the area of periodontal disease and treatment.

Patients that have issues with their gums or tissues in the mouth may need to visit a periodontist. Periodontists look for gum recession, pockets around the teeth, infection, and any issues around the gums. There are special treatment procedures periodontists offer to help patients that have damaged gum tissue. They can remove the damaged tissue to help preserve both your teeth and gums.

Endodontists

An endodontists is another type of dentist that specializes in any issues inside the tooth. This includes the pulp, blood vessels, and tissue. A common treatment done by an endodontist is a root canal. They can remove any infected pulp, and seal the area to help save your tooth. If you have a cracked, broken, or injured tooth, an endodontist is the specialist to visit.

General Dentists

It is important to also know when to see a general dentist and the differences between a general dentist and a specialist. General dentists focus on your teeth and oral health. This includes prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of various issues. Your general dentist takes care of your cleanings and exams, and can treat cavities. In addition, general dentists can provide veneers, crowns, and other various cosmetic treatments. If patients need specialized treatment the general dentist will typically refer that patient to the proper specialist.

What are My Next Steps in Finding a Specialist?

Talking to your general dentist is important. If you notice you have an issue with your gums, or have had a root canal and are in pain, it may be time to see a specialist. Your general dentist can typically give you a referral to a great specialist in your area that can treat the issue.

If you have been referred to our office we look forward to meeting you. Our patients are our priority and we go above and beyond to provide the highest level of care to all of our patients.

To schedule an appointment with one of our specialists contact our office, and our staff will be happy to assist you.

What Can I Do About Receding Gums?

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Receding Gums

What Can I Do About Receding Gums?

If not notice you have inflammation around your gums, or they are starting to recede it may be time to consult with a Periodontist. Gum recession should be treated to avoid further issues, or even tooth loss. Receding gums can be caused by periodontal disease or gum disease. Typically healthy gums are pink, but with gum recession the tissue is wearing away leaving more of your teeth exposed. Attending regular exams in our office, and practicing good oral hygiene habits can ensure you stay on top of receding gums, so they do not continue to get worse over time.

What Are Symptoms of Receding Gums?

You may notice any of the following if you have receding gums.

  • Swollen or red gums
  • Bad breath
  • Loose teeth
  • Bad taste in your mouth
  • Pain or tenderness around gums or mouth

What Causes Gum Recession?

Gum recession can be caused by multiple things. Themost common cause of gum recession isperiodontal disease or gum disease. Other causes can be old age, poor oral hygiene, or medicalconditions. Another factor could be the toothbrush you are using. Check to make sure you are using asoft bristle tooth brush,and make sure you are gently brushing at least twice a day. Abrasive brushescan actually damage your gums as you brush if you are not careful.

Other Causes of Gum Recession

  • Injury or trauma to the mouth
  • Teeth alignment issues
  • Smoking or tobacco use
  • Dentures that do not fit properly and rub on the gums
  • Teeth Grinding

What Are My Treatment Options for Receding Gums?

Our staff are trained to check each patient’s gum tissue. Gum recession happens gradually, and it is important to visit out office twice a year to stay on top of any potential issues. Our team can help you keep your gums in good condition and prevent them from getting worse.

Depending on how severe the gums are will determine the course of treatment recommended. We look at the tooth brush you are using and your oral hygiene habits. Using a daily rinse that helps to fight plaque or a dental pick can help to reach those hard areas.

If pockets have formed around the affected gums, patients can have a deep cleaning done called scaling and root planing. This treatment removes and cleans the plaque on the tooth and root surfaces. Scaling and root planing also helps to heal gum tissue and shrink periodontal pockets where bacteria hides. This treatment helps to prevent further infection, and keeps your gums looking and feeling healthy. Gums will recede less and this treatment helps to restore damaged gums.

How Can I Schedule an Appointment?

Taking charge of your oral health is the key to keeping your gums and teeth looking and feeling healthy. If you notice your gums are receding, and would like to find out more about gum recession treatment contact our office today.

Our office has flexible hours and we do our best to accommodate our patients. If you would like to make an appointment, contact our office and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you!

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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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