Admin - Total Implants and Periodontics

April 15, 2021 by Admin

Do you notice when you smile you see gum tissue more than your teeth? This is known as a gummy smile, and many patients are bothered by how their smile looks. There are treatment options to correct a gummy smile, and we are here to help you find a treatment that works best.

What Can Cause a Gummy Smile?

Your Bite

Your bite can be genetic and your top jaw may not align properly with your bottom jaw. If your bite causes the upper jaw to protrude this can cause a gummy look.

Hyperactive Upper Lip

If your lip raises up too high gum tissue may be exposed, and this results in a gummy smile.

Excess Gum Tissue

The most common cause of a gummy smile is having too much gum tissue. In many cases gum tissue can over grow when permanent teeth erupt in the mouth.

What Are My Treatment Options?

Crown Lengthening

Crown Lengthening helps to reshape the gum tissue around the tooth and correct a gummy smile. This procedure exposes more of the patient’s natural tooth and make the teeth look longer.

Gum Contouring

Gum contouring can help change the shape of your gum, and this can be done if you have excess gum tissue. This procedure also helps if the gum line is uneven. Gum contouring removes the excess gum tissue and exposes more of your teeth. This helps to give patients a beautiful even looking smile.

Scaling and Root Planing

If a gummy smile is caused by inflamed gums a deep cleaning treatment may be recommended. Scaling and root planing reach down deep into the gum pockets to remove bacteria. This can help the gummy appearance subside.

Lip Lowering

This procedure involves removing a section of gum tissue to reveal a shorter looking lip. This keeps the upper lip from rising too high and exposing your gum tissue.

Orthodontics

If you have an issue with your bite orthodontics may help correct your gummy smile. Orthodontic treatment can help adjust your bite to avoid gum tissue showing when you smile.

Looking To Take the Next Step to a Beautiful Smile?

If you are looking to correct your smile we encourage you take the first step and schedule a consultation in our office. This will give our team the opportunity to evaluate your concerns, and discuss possible treatment options that work for you. We want you to be proud of your smile, and we are here to help you get the smile you have always wanted.

If you are interested in scheduling a cosmetic consultation, contact our office and we will be happy to assist you.

April 1, 2021 by Admin

Knowing when to call the dentist is important, and if you have a dental emergency you should get in touch with your dentist right away. Our practice offers same or next day appointments to address any emergency situations for our patients. We want our patients to feel comfortable calling us in an emergency situation.

There are signs or symptoms that may tell you there is a dental emergency. Typically, if you are experiencing any pain or discomfort that is a big indicator something may be wrong. If an emergency is not addressed, additional more complicated problems may arise. The quicker you contact us, the faster we can get you in to be seen and help you recover.

Dental emergencies include any problems that require immediate attention. Examples of dental emergencies include saving a tooth, infections, or alleviating pain. Infections are serious, can be life-threatening, and should be addressed right away. One of the most common dental emergencies patients face is a tooth ache. This can be caused by a cavity, and should be addressed as soon as possible.

Common Dental Emergencies

Bleeding or irritated gums
Tooth Injury, broken, or cracked tooth
Abscess or infection
Prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold
Tooth pain that is persistent and does not go away
Lip or mouth sores that do not go away
Jaw pain, popping, or clicking
Your tooth changes color, or white spots have formed on the tooth’s surface
Loose teeth

If you ever experience any of the above symptoms we encourage you to call our office. Anytime you have pain, or have experienced an injury or trauma is a good reason to call. Our highly experienced team can evaluate the issue, and help get you on the road to recovery. We are ready and trained to handle any dental emergency, and want our patients to know they are in good hands.

Need To Schedule an Appointment?

If you are facing a dental emergency please contact our office, and we will ensure you are seen as soon as possible. Our patients are our priority, and we have flexible hours each day to accommodate all of our patients.

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

June 2, 2021March 24, 2021 by Admin

Patients that choose to move forward with the dental implant process wonder how painful the procedure will be. Dental implants look and feel natural in the mouth, and are a great restorative solution for those that have missing, cracked, or broken teeth. Our customized treatment plans work for each patient’s needs, and we work closely with our patients every step of the way.

Overall, the implant process is not painful. Many patients say that the dental implant process is less painful than having a tooth pulled. To keep patients comfortable we use local anesthesia and numb the gums around the implant area. Our team also checks to make sure each patient has enough bone present in their jaw to support their new implants. If necessary, bone grafting can be done to give patients the bone required in their jaw. This is an extra step in the process and does require additional healing.

How Is the Implant Healing Process?

The healing process for dental implants takes between 4-6 months. Antibiotics may be recommended to patients, as well as pain relievers to help with the healing process.

After Your Implant Procedure You May Have the Following

Minor bleeding that should subside after a day or two.
Minor swelling or bruising around the face and implant area.
Some pain or sensitivity around the implant area.

If patients notice any pain, swelling, or bleeding that does not subside, or gets progressively worse we encourage you to contact our office immediately. You will need to be seen in our office as soon as possible. During the healing process soft foods are recommended, and patients should stay away from foods or drinks that may stain your teeth.

Dental implants can last up to 25 years or a lifetime if they are cared for properly. The pain associated with the dental implant process can be kept at a minimum by following the at home care instructions. Implants are a great choice for patients seeking a beautiful smile that is permanent and will last for years.

Interested in Finding Out More?

To find out more, scheduling your implant consultation is the first step towards a beautiful smile. Our team is available to answer any questions, and our detailed consultation process allows our team to take a close look at your mouth and teeth. We will build a customized treatment plan and get you on the road to a beautiful smile.

To schedule your implant consultation contact our office, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you!

March 24, 2021 by Admin

Oral piercings are popular among young adults and adolescents. Piercings are the cool thing to have, and they give people a way to express themselves. Piercings can interfere with your speech or your ability to chew and swallow. Many people also wonder if their choice to have a piercing can lead to infection.

Can My Oral Piercing Cause an Infection?

Oral piercings are considered trauma because they involve breaking the surface of the skin or tissue in the mouth. This does involve a risk for infection because the piercing gives bacteria an area to gather. Our mouths have larger amounts of bacteria, and piercings that are on the lips have a greater risk for infection. This is because they are towards the skin surface.

Even though oral piercings pose a risk for infection, oral tissue has the ability to heal quickly. This decreases the chance for bacteria to cause an infection. In addition, piercings can increase the risk for contracting a viral infection depending on where the piercing is located. Choosing a clean and reputable facility for your piercing is important. Sterilization and good hygiene is necessary with any type of piercing.

How Can I Avoid an Infection if I Have an Oral Piercing?

The first thing to consider is your oral hygiene. In order to keep your teeth, mouth, and the piercing area clean at all times you must have proper hygiene. This also helps to keep your risk of infection lower. Keeping the area clean after meals is important. Brushing and flossing as well as using an antiseptic mouthwash can help avoid bacteria from collecting around the piercing area.

Watching for signs of infection can help you get in front of an issue. Symptoms of an infection include fever, chills, and redness or swelling around the piercing area. We encourage you to contact our office immediately if you think you may have an infection, or notice unusual swelling in your mouth or tongue.

How Do You Treat an Infection From an Oral Piercing?

An infection from an oral piercing can be treated by a dental professional. It is important to seek medical attention immediately if you suspect you may have an oral infection. Catching the infection early is important, and the infection can be easily managed. Typically antibiotics will be needed, and in some cases depending on the severity of the infection the piercing may have to be removed. This will help the infection heal quicker.

Concerned You May Have an Infection?

If you are concerned you may have an infection due to an oral piercing we encourage you to contact our office. Our staff is available to answer any questions or concerns you may have. Leaving an infection untreated can lead to more serious health issues. Treating an infection as soon as possible can help stop the infection in its tracks, and prevent the infection from getting worse.

Contact our friendly staff to schedule an appointment in our office. We are happy to assist you, and we accommodate all of our patients to ensure they can be seen right away. Let us help get you on the road to recovery.

February 21, 2021 by Admin

If you have missing, damaged, or broken teeth and are looking for the perfect restoration solution, dental implants may be the right choice for you. Dental Implants are a permanent solution and are durable and long lasting. Implants function like natural teeth, and allow patients to speak and eat normally. Implants are comfortable and do not slip or click like other restorative options.

Your bright white natural smile will be noticeable and will look natural. Implants act like an artificial tooth root and are made of titanium. Implants are placed into the jawbone and act like a screw. This provides the base for one or many crowns. Custom crowns are made to match the color and shape of your natural teeth giving patients a natural white smile.

As part of the implant consultation process we will check to make sure all patients have enough bone present in the jaw to support the new implants. If needed, bone grafting can be done to add the support that is needed. This helps to create that strong base that is required for the implants.

Once the implants are placed, an abutment or connector is set on top of the implant to hold the crown in place. Temporary crowns may be used until the permanent crowns are ready to be installed.

Benefits of Dental Implants

Provide patients with a natural looking smile and functions like natural teeth.
Provide long term value financially.
Implants are permanent and do not slip or click like other solutions.
Implants preserve the natural bone in the mouth, and this helps to stimulate new bone growth.
Dental implants are built to last upwards of 25 years, but can last a lifetime if they are cared for properly.

Interested in Finding Out More?

If you are interested in finding out if dental implants are right for you, we encourage you to set up your initial implant consultation in our office. This will give our team the opportunity to take a detailed look at your teeth and mouth, and discuss treatment options. We also will develop a customized treatment plan, and answer any questions or concerns you may have with the dental implant process.

Dental implants can be life changing, and can allow patients to live a normal healthy life eating and drinking as they would with natural teeth. Taking that first step is worth it to achieve that beautiful smile you have always wanted.

To schedule your implant consultation please call our office and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you.

February 18, 2021February 15, 2021 by Admin

Crowns are similar to a cap that is placed over a tooth, and are used to save and restore a damaged tooth. Crowns look natural and allow patients to use their tooth again. The color of a crown can also be matched to your natural teeth, and crowns help to make damaged teeth strong again.

When Would a Crown be Necessary?

To repair a cracked or damaged tooth
After root canal treatment
To help restore a misshapen or stained tooth
To repair an existing crown that does not fit properly

Crowns can last anywhere between 5 to 15 years depending on wear and tear. Over time if the crown faces a higher level of wear and tear, this can lead to the need for crown replacement. If you use good oral hygiene and you are careful with your crown they can last up to 25-30 years.

Tips To Help Your Crown Last Longer

Avoid biting down on hard objects or foods to prevent wear and tear of the crown.
Attend regular cleanings in our office so we can ensure all looks good and your crown remains healthy.
Avoid grinding or clenching your teeth. If you suffer from bruxism we may recommend a mouth guard.
Make sure you are brushing and flossing daily, and you pay attention to the crown area while brushing.

If you experience any pain in or around your crown, or notice any cracks or chips please contact our office immediately. We will get you in to be seen as soon as possible.

Looking To Find Out More About Crowns?

If you are interested in finding out more about crowns and how they may benefit you, schedule a consultation in our office. We provide a detailed consultation process for all of our patients, and can recommend treatment options that work for you. Your oral health is our priority, and we go above and beyond to provide the highest level of care for all of our patients.

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

What Can Cause a Gummy Smile?