Periodontics/Gum Therapy
What is it?
Periodontal disease is the single most common cause of tooth loss in adults. This inflammatory disease attacks the gums, bone and other supporting structure of the teeth. Gum disease is caused by plaque, a colorless film of bacteria that forms on the teeth. This bacteria, when mixed with sugars and starches, can cause gums to be become red, tender and swollen. If not removed daily, plaque hardens to form tartar around the teeth. The tissue attached to the gums is destroyed and pulls away from the teeth forming pockets for more plaque to fill. This can lead to the destruction of bone structure.
Other Causes
- Physical and chemical irritants
- Abnormal oral conditions or habits
- Unbalanced diet
- Pregnancy
- Certain medications
- Certain diseases
Signs
- Gums that bleed
- Red, swollen, tender gums
- Gums that have receded
- Pus between your teeth when you press your gums
- Pain when chewing
- Tartar buildup
- Teeth that seem loose or change position
- Changes in your bite
- Changes in the way your partial dentures fit
- Bad breath or chronic bad taste in your mouth
- Teeth that are overly sensitive to hot and cold
Oral Surgery
Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth are a third set of molars that can develop into problems for many people.
Extraction is generally recommended when the following conditions occur:
- wisdom teeth only partially erupt, leaving an opening for bacteria to enter around the tooth causing an infection.
- Impacted wisdom teeth may continue growing without enough room, damaging adjacent teeth.
- A fluid-filled sac or tumor forms, destroying surrounding structures such as bone or tooth roots.
People between 16 and 19 should have their wisdom teeth evaluated. If they need to be removed, it should be considered before the age of 20, when, generally, fewer complications occur.
Orthodontics
What is it?
Orthodontics is the branch of dentistry that specializes in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of dental and facial irregularities (malocclusions). The practice of orthodontics requires professional skill in the design, application and the use of corrective appliances (braces or Invisalign) to bring teeth, lips and jaws into proper alignment and achieve facial balance.
Why is it important?
Everyone wants a beautiful smile and everyone should have one. A pleasing appearance is a vital asset to one's self-confidence and self-esteem. The orthodontics goal is to achieve that smile. Crooked and crowded teeth are hard to clean and maintain which may result in tooth decay, gum disease, and tooth loss. They can also lead to misalignment of jaw joints causing headaches and pain. Early treatment is best to help alleviate these problems and help to bring harmony to your teeth, lips and face.