What Braces Are the Fastest?

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Categories: Orthodontics

Braces are the most common orthodontic treatment used to straighten teeth and address alignment issues. There are a number of treatment options that can help you achieve a more uniform smile. For many people considering braces, they are concerned about how long the treatment lasts. You may even wonder, what braces are the fastest?

What Braces Are the Fastest?

Patients often wonder which form of braces are the fastest. It’s important to understand that a variety of factors determine how fast your treatment will be. The following factors determine how long your treatment timeline will be.

Dental Issues:

For common dental issues, the treatment timeline can last one year or less. However, more complex dental issues can take up to two years to fully address. The dental issues you have can also determine which type of dental treatment is right for you. Talk with your dentist in Arcadia about the status of your dental issues, including your projected treatment timeline.

Adherence to Treatment Plan:

This is likely the most important factor when it comes to staying on your projected treatment timeline. Your dentist will provide you with instructions for how to care for your oral health during treatment, including food choices, oral hygiene practices, and regular appointments to check in on your progress. Following your dentist’s instructions is integral to the success of your treatment in addition to ensuring you stay on track with your timeline.

Treatment Type:

This relates to the dental issues you have as that will determine the type of treatment you will receive. If you have more common dental issues, clear braces in Arcadia may be right for you. Addressing common dental issues is often faster than treating more complex issues. Complex dental issues are often treated with traditional metal braces which can take longer.

Types of Braces

The two most common types of braces include clear aligners and traditional metal braces.

Clear Aligners:

Clear aligners are a common and highly effective dental treatment option. The treatment involves a series of aligners that shift your teeth into place. They are created specifically for you and your unique dental needs. Most patients change their aligners every two weeks and treatment can take one year or less. The benefits of clear aligners often outweigh traditional braces for those with common dental issues.

Traditional Metal Braces:

For more advanced dental issues, including misalignment, traditional metal braces are the most common treatment. Unlike clear aligners, traditional braces include brackets and wires that are tightened to gradually straighten your teeth and address alignment issues. Depending on your dental issues, treatment with traditional braces can take between one to two years.

Maintaining Your Treatment Timeline

Improving your smile depends on your ability to adhere to your treatment plan. The following can help you stay on your planned treatment timeline.

Daily Oral Care Routine:

Maintaining a consistent daily oral care routine can ensure that your oral health is in good shape during treatment. This includes brushing at least twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush for two minutes. You should also floss at least once a day.

Dental Appointments:

You should follow your dentist’s recommendations about checkups to ensure you are making progress with your brace’s treatment. In addition, it’s important to get a dental cleaning and checkup at least every 6 months.

Clean and Maintain Your Aligners:

Cleaning your aligners and aligner case daily is integral to the success of your treatment. Clean your aligners and tray when you brush and floss your teeth. It’s also important to avoid eating or drinking (anything outside of water) with your aligners in.

Dental Consultation

If you are considering braces treatment, contact the team at Premier Dental Aesthetics. They are skilled in a variety of dental treatments, including clear aligners. They have helped countless patients improve the look of their smile and increase their self-confidence. Contact their team today for a consultation so you can improve your dental aesthetic!

Top Root Canal Myths

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Categories: Root canals

Patients who have never undergone a root canal procedure may be traumatized just by the mention of a “root canal.” Media often portray root canals as a torture experience reminiscent of medieval times. Although endodontics is often portrayed as a painful and dangerous procedure, dentists want to remind you that this is not the case. Most of these terrible stories are just myths that have become more exaggerated over the years.

Top Root Canal Myths

Root canals can save your teeth from having to be completely removed. Let’s talk about root canals and what’s involved when you visit your dentist in Arcadia for this type of procedure. Below, you’ll find the 5 top root canal myths we hear about and what the truth really is.

Root Canals Cause Pain

Many horror stories have been told about root canals that are painful and dangerous. Modern technology makes this procedure painless. The entire procedure is painless because it is completely numbed. You can choose to have local or complete anesthesia in some instances. The area can experience swelling or soreness while healing but this will quickly disappear.

Extractions Are Better Than Root Canals

Another myth is that an extract is more effective than a root canal. General extractions are less expensive but you will end up spending more in the long term because you will need to fill any space left behind. Root canals can save your tooth and prevent you from having to deal with a broken or missing tooth. Root canals can prevent bad infections from spreading further inside your mouth. This could lead to more broken teeth down the road.

Root Canals Cause People to Get Sick

Modern root canals are safer than traditional ones. Root canals can be safely and are not at risk of any diseases. It is best to save natural teeth if possible. Root canals are more likely to prevent you from becoming sick than make you become sick.

All Root Canals are a Dental Emergency

You should always be able call an emergency dentist to get root canal treatment performed quickly. Some people might experience milder symptoms while others may experience more serious problems. If you have severe pain, bleeding or damage to your pulp, it is important that you seek emergency dentistry treatment right away. You should not assume that your tooth infection is serious. Call your endodontist immediately if you are unsure. Although not all root canals need to be performed immediately, it is better to be safe than sorry.

Root Canal Surgery Has a Long Road to Recovery

Patients may be more afraid of the recovery than they are of the actual procedure. Although you might feel some sensitivity for a few days after the procedure, it’s not too severe. An endodontist removed the affected tooth. If you are experiencing severe pain, your dentist or doctor may prescribe pain relief medication. If you feel something is not right, it should only last a few days.

We offer Root Canal Treatments. Contact Us Today!

Our endodontic specialists can help you learn more about the best treatments for tooth infections. After scheduling a consultation with your dentist, you can find out more about the safe and easy way to get a root canal in Arcadia. Root canal treatment can seem scary to many, but our friendly professionals will help you overcome your fears and make it as painless as possible. From beginning to end, the root canal experience should be fast and without any trauma. To learn more, contact our friendly dental experts and schedule a personal consultation for the betterment of your dental health.

Can You Whiten Teeth with Braces?

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Categories: Orthodontics

As frustrating as it may be, in-office whitening is not recommended for people who currently have traditional braces with fixed brackets. The brackets are bonded to your teeth, making it impossible for your dentist in Arcadia to uniformly apply their whitening solution. Attempting to do a whitening treatment with fixed braces would likely result in visibly marked teeth when your braces are finally removed.

Can You Whiten Teeth with Braces?

Being able to see where your brackets were is far from ideal. So it’s best to schedule your in-office whitening for a time after your braces are removed. If you’re lucky, you may be able to schedule your teeth whitening in Arcadia for the very same day. In other good news, some types of braces will allow you to have your teeth whitened whenever you like.

Other Kinds of Braces

When you think of braces, you’re probably thinking of a mouth full of metal. While traditional braces are still commonly used, they’re far from being the only option available to you. Today, two other types of braces are commonly used. Both of these options will allow you to have a professional whitening treatment whenever you wish.

Lingual Braces

Lingual braces are very similar to traditional braces with one major difference. With lingual braces, the brackets are fixed to the back of your teeth.

This option offers the speed and control of traditional braces without the outward appearance of them. The only real downside is increased cost and increased discomfort. However, if you’re willing to push through the initial irritation, lingual braces can be a great option.

Thanks to the fact that lingual braces are fixed to the back of your teeth, there’s absolutely no reason that you can’t have a full in-office whitening treatment.

Invisalign

You may be more familiar with Invisalign and other similar products. These braces are a category all their own. They consist of a series of removable trays that fit over your teeth. Each set of trays shifts your teeth slightly with the goal of eventually giving you the perfect smile.

The only downside of Invisalign is that you can take them out. And you might do that more than you should. For the trays to work properly, you have to wear your Invisalign for 22-23 hours out of every day. Taking a break here and there to rest your jaw could ultimately set you back weeks or even months.

On the upside, they are fully removable. You can enjoy all of your favorite foods without worrying about them getting caught or breaking a bracket. It also means that you can have in-office teeth whitening whenever you like. Just make sure you put your trays back once your dentist gives the all clear.

Choosing Professional Teeth Whitening

There are countless products on the market that claim to help you whiten your teeth at home. Unfortunately, none of them are capable of matching up to the instant, quality results you can expect with your local cosmetic dentist.

There are two reasons for this discrepancy.

Your dentist has the expertise to safely use products that are 10x stronger than those sold in stores.
Your dentist can apply their teeth whitening solution with purpose to make sure you get even, beautiful results every time.

Essentially, it is very possible you could end up spending more on drug store products that barely work. And you still might not have decent results. Do you want to learn more about in-office teeth whitening? What about the benefits of enlisting the help of a professional? Then talk to your dentist in Arcadia today.

How to Survive Your First Week of Braces

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Categories: Orthodontics

Braces can transform your smile and improve your oral health. Despite their amazing benefits, getting used to your braces can take some time. Preparing for your first week of having braces is necessary to smoothly transition into living with braces. You may feel some initial soreness so it’s important to make yourself comfortable as your mouth adjusts. Below you will find helpful tips on how to survive your first week of braces.

How to Survive Your First Week of Braces

The benefits of braces can be transformative for your oral health and your appearance. Consider the following tips so you are prepared for your first week of having braces.

Plan What You Can:

Planning ahead can be a game-changer during your first week with braces. Many people have highly similar experiences during their first week of braces. Because of this, it’s pretty easy to plan in advance to be sure you have all of the necessary supplies beforehand. Talk with your dentist in Arcadia about what supplies they suggest. Floss threaders, orthodontic wax, a new toothbrush can all be really helpful. Have some over-the-counter pain relief to help as your teeth and gums adjust. Talking with your friends or family who have had braces before can be a huge asset in terms of getting through your first week.

Be Creative with Meals:

Eating during your first week with braces can be slightly challenging, but it’s not impossible! The first day or two, stick to foods that you don’t have to chew. Smoothies, yogurt, oatmeal, pudding, and soup are all really easy on your mouth as you begin transitioning. After the first few days you can eat foods with a little more substance, including pasta, soft veggies, and seedless bread. Near the end of the week, you can likely incorporate completely solid food into your diet. Be mindful of how you feel and take your time as you incorporate more foods into your diet.

Oral Hygiene Routine:

Even if you feel some soreness, it’s important to stay consistent with your daily oral care routine. This includes brushing at least twice a day, preferably after every meal. Thoroughly brushing your teeth for at least two minutes with a soft-bristled toothbrush is necessary to get all of the harmful debris out of your braces and in between your teeth. Flossing is just as important, if not more, when you have braces. Floss at least once a day, and if you only floss once, floss at night. Your orthodontist in Arcadia can provide you with a oral hygiene routine that takes into account your unique needs.

Salt Water Rinse:

Some people experience irritation when they first get braces. A saltwater rinse can help relieve pain, soreness, and help sores heal faster. If you experience significant irritation, use a saltwater rinse five to six times a day for 30 seconds. The recipe is simple as you’ll just need to add one-half of a teaspoon to one cup of warm water.

Orthodontic Wax:

The brackets used for braces can cause sores in your mouth. These can be painful, so it’s important to prevent them from happening in the first place. The best method for preventing bracket sores is using orthodontic wax. While the areas on your mouth will eventually toughen up, using wax in the beginning can help ease the pain during the transition period.

Stay Distracted:

Most people transition into braces treatment without any issue. You may experience some soreness and dietary changes, but this is temporary. Plan what you’ll do the first week in advance. Download your favorite podcasts or read that book you have been putting off for months. Most importantly, keep yourself distracted and busy so you can get through the first week seamlessly.

How Gum Disease Causes Tooth Loss

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Categories: Gum disease

Gum disease is a serious dental condition that can lead to other harmful dental issues if not taken care of. Also referred to as “periodontitis,” gum disease is an infection in the gums that damages soft tissue in your gums. If left untreated it can damage the bone in your jaw that supports your teeth. Below you will find how gum disease causes tooth loss and what you can do to avoid the condition.

How Gum Disease Causes Tooth Loss

Untreated gum disease can lead to serious issues, such as tooth loss. Gum disease begins with bacterial growth in your mouth. This can be caused by poor oral hygiene, an unhealthy diet, and poor lifestyle habits like smoking. Gum inflammation, also referred to as “gingivitis,” can be treated by a dentist. However, if it goes untreated it can lead to gum disease. This is because the inner layer of your gums (and the bone) pulls away from your teeth. This forms pockets where debris can collect and become infected. When this happens, the bone and connective gum tissue break down, and your teeth are no longer effectively anchored in place. This can cause your teeth to become loose and lead to complete tooth loss.

Symptoms of Gum Disease

Gum disease requires early intervention in order to avoid serious dental issues. Sometimes gum disease is accompanied with a number of clear symptoms, but it can also develop without obvious signs. This is why it’s important to stay consistent with your daily oral care routine, in addition to your six-month dental checkups. A dentist in Arcadia can regularly monitor your oral health and catch any symptoms of gingivitis and gum disease early on.

Some of the common symptoms of gum disease include the following: loose or shifting teeth; red and swollen gums; gums that bleed after you brush your teeth; bad breath or a poor taste in your mouth; receding gums; change in the way your teeth feel when you bite down; and the formation of deep pockets between your teeth and gums. If you notice any of these symptoms, schedule a dental visit as soon as you can. A dentist can diagnose the issue and provide gum disease treatment in Arcadia if necessary.

Gum Disease Prevention

Preventing gum disease is the best way to protect your teeth, gums, and jawbone. Gingivitis is the first sign of trouble when it comes to gum disease. The good news is that gingivitis can be reversed. Proper plaque control can ensure that gingivitis doesn’t form on your teeth in the first place. Consider the following tips to ensure your oral health stays in good shape.

Brushing:

It is important to brush your teeth at least twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Use toothpaste with fluoride for optimal oral health. Brushing helps remove the plaque on the surface of your teeth. For the best results, replace your toothbrush every three months (or sooner if you notice any fraying).

Flossing:

Floss at least once a day to remove harmful debris and plaque from all the places your toothbrush can’t reach. Making this a part of your everyday oral health routine can help prevent gum disease and gingivitis.

Mouthwash:

Regularly using an antibacterial mouthwash can help prevent gingivitis, fight bad breath, and reduce the harmful plaque on your tooth’s surface. It can also reduce the bacteria in your mouth which helps prevent gingivitis.

Lifestyle Habits:

Your dental and oral health are linked, so it’s important to focus on healthy lifestyle habits. Avoiding harmful habits such as smoking and a poor diet can help keep your oral health in good shape.

Regular Dental Visits:

Visiting the dentist every six months can help monitor your oral health to ensure gingivitis and gum disease are at bay. If you have a history of oral health issues you may need to visit the dentist more often.

How to Improve Your Kid’s Dental Visit

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Categories: Dental anxiety

The importance of children’s dentistry as it pertains to their dental and overall health is clear. Taking steps to ensure your child’s dental health is in good shape is a great way to get them motivated about keeping up with their oral health for the long term. One of the challenges about getting kids to the dentist is that they may have some apprehension or fears about the dentist. Starting early and keeping your child on track with their oral health is important. Below you will find helpful ways to improve your kid’s dental visit.

How to Improve Your Kid’s Dental Visit

Adding to the list of tasks you have to do as a parent can be daunting. However, getting your child excited about their oral health when they are young can take the burden off of you in the long run. Consider the following tips to help improve your child’s next dental visit.

Start Early:

Roughly 9% of children experience dental anxiety. Getting your child familiar with the dentist at a young age can help reduce their anxiety about the dentist office. Most dentists recommend taking your child to the dentist once their first tooth erupts, or no later than their first birthday. Starting early can help ensure that the dentist can catch any potential dental issues early on, in addition to getting your child used to going to the dentist.

Play Pretend in Advance:

One of the best ways to get your child excited about the dentist is through play. Children learn by watching and modeling your behavior. Find a fun dentist toy set and start talking to your child about the importance of taking care of their oral health. This can help prepare them for the tools, sounds, and atmosphere of a dental office before their first visit.

Find a Family Dentist:

A family dentist is skilled in treating family members of all ages, including children. They understand the unique nature of working with kids. A family dentist can distract your child during the visit and get you out of the office much faster. This can be highly beneficial for your child as they will feel much more comfortable with a family dentist in Arcadia. Having a good dental visit can ensure your child wants to come back the next time without issue.

Discuss the Visit:

You’ll need to make the discussion age-appropriate, but it’s important to talk to your child about their upcoming dental visit. Use positive language about how the visit will go, the sounds they may hear, and what they may see. You can also explain how important oral health is so they understand why they need to keep going to the dentist. Getting your child familiar with the dentist and educating them on the role they have in their health can be really helpful for your child.

Letting Your Child Lead:

Children love autonomy and expressing themselves. You can let your child lead when it comes to the day of the dental appointment. They can open the door, walk-in, talk with the receptionist, and lead the way to the dentist in Arcadia. This can help them feel a sense of control over the appointment and feel empowered versus fearful. Talk with your child before and get them excited about their big day!

Celebrate Post-Appointment:

One of the best ways to get through a difficult appointment is having fun plans afterward. Plan a fun day after the appointment by heading to the park, having lunch, or going swimming. Plan something fun that your child really likes to do for after the appointment. This can help ease some anxiety and give them something to look forward to after the appointment.

Can You Get Dental Bonding Whitened?

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Categories: Cosmetic dentistry

The normal teeth whitening process involves penetrating the tooth enamel to break down pigment molecules. Because dental enamel is naturally porous, this process allows the bleaching agent to remove discoloration from the teeth. But does the same process work for those who have had cosmetic dentistry work? For example, can you get dental bonding whitened?

Can You Get Dental Bonding Whitened?

Since the whitening process is so specific, it can be difficult to say whether or not dental bonding can be whitened with the same bleaching agent as your natural teeth. In most cases, you can’t whiten your dental bonding the same way. Here’s what your local cosmetic dentist in Arcadia wants you to know about the benefits and limitations of dental bonding and tooth whitening.

Why Can’t You Whiten Dental Bonding

Dental bonding uses a resin that is not the same as natural enamel. You may notice a rapid increase in the brightness of your unbonded teeth if you use a regular whitening treatment. Your bonded teeth will probably remain the same color as your unbonded ones, which can lead to a mismatched smile.

Before you try any type of whitening, it is a good idea to consult your dentist. A professional whitening procedure may be recommended by your dentist as it can provide more dramatic results than any over-the-counter product. Your dentist can also assess your teeth’s health to determine if you are safe to undergo cosmetic treatments. Your dentist can arrange for you to have your desired shade of teeth restored or veneered. Below, we’ll talk about some of the ways you can whiten dental bonding and how to start doing it today!

Teeth Bonding Whitening Options

A mismatched smile is considered undesirable. You will need to take extra steps to ensure that all your visible teeth are the same shade. There are a few main ways you can whiten your bonded teeth:

  • Removing the bonding is possible. You can ask your cosmetic dentist for the removal of any bonded teeth after you have whitened your natural teeth. They can then re-bond your tooth using a resin that matches your whitened teeth.
  • Consider a veneer. After whitening, your dentist might recommend that the old resin be removed and replaced with a veneer. Veneers can be used to replace bonding and are more permanent than bonding. They are made from porcelain that is impervious to stains. Although the process of placing one takes a few appointments, many patients feel that it is worth the effort and time.
  • Purchase a dental bonding toothpaste. Popular toothpaste brands such as Colgate and Crest offer whitening pastes that are made specifically for those whose teeth have been fixed using dental bonding.

Although bonding material doesn’t respond to whitening materials as teeth do, there are simple solutions. To ensure the composite matches the color of your teeth, replace the bonding material immediately or within two weeks. It is simple to place composite on your teeth. The procedure is painless, non-invasive, and takes only one office visit to complete.

Find Your Perfect Teeth Whitening Solution Today

Whether you are worried about matching discoloration on your dental bonding, or you just want to make sure that all parts of your teeth look the same, our pros at Smiles of Arcadia offer the best in-office whitening treatments for teeth of all types. Find out the best way to replace and restore dental bonding and see what other options you have for taking care of dental bonding near Pasadena. When you contact us today for a personal consultation, we will be able to help you get the treatment you need in a single office visit. Don’t waste any more time – get in touch with us ASAP!

The Dangers of Mercury Dentistry

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Categories: General Dentistry

If you have ever heard of a “silver” filling, then you already know a little bit about the uses of mercury in dentistry. The accurate term for “silver” fillings is dental amalgam fillings. These fillings are some of the strongest and longest lasting options on the market, but there are a few things you probably don’t know about them.

The Dangers of Mercury Dentistry

These fillings only contain a very small percentage of silver. In total, a dental amalgam filling is actually about 50% mercury while the rest of the material is made from a mixture of silver, copper, and tin. This composition is leading a lot of people to question the safety of using dental amalgam fillings.

A Look at Mercury

Mercury is a naturally existing element that can be found in three different forms. The form found in amalgam fillings we know as elemental mercury. It’s a metallic form of the element, and it’s actually a liquid at room temperature.

Unfortunately, mercury can also prove highly toxic if you find yourself exposed to it over time. Recent research shows that dental amalgam fillings may expose patients to low levels of mercury vapor over the years. While the FDA has not seen fit to pull amalgam fillings off the market yet, they do recommend that high-risk patients should choose mercury-free options.

  • High-risk patients include:
  • Children under six
  • Pregnant women
  • Nursing mothers
  • People with neurological impairment
  • People with kidney dysfunction
  • Anyone sensitive to metals including mercury, silver, tin, and copper

Current Research and Existing Fillings

Most Americans have a measurable amount of mercury in their blood and urine. But scientists have yet to establish a truly safe level of exposure. In cases of over-exposure, there could exist neurological damage. Additionally health complications affecting the kidneys and upper respiratory tract can appear. Until we better understand what level of elemental mercury exposure is safe, it may be in your best interest to choose a mercury-free dentist in Arcadia.

As of now, the FDA does not recommend having undamaged dental amalgam fillings replaced. Doing so could damage the remaining structure of your teeth. And it may actually expose you to a temporary increase in elemental mercury vapor. Instead, the FDA suggests keeping undamaged dental amalgam fillings in place. From then, choose mercury-free options for any future fillings if concerned.

Mercury Free Options

Fortunately, there are plenty of filling options that don’t contain any mercury. If it turns out you need a filling at any point in the future, your dentist in Arcadia will be more than happy to talk you through all of their mercury-free choices.

Three of the most popular are:

  • Composite fillings: Composite fillings come from an acrylic resin. They can look just like your natural tooth. They are not as strong as dental amalgam. But you can still expect them to last between 5 and 7 years with regular care.
  • Gold fillings: Gold fillings are pricey and definitely stand out. However, they are also the most durable option. With appropriate care you can expect a gold filling to last as long as twenty years.
  • Ceramic fillings: Ceramic fillings are often the most expensive filling option available. They prove a bit more durable than composite fillings and can color-match to your teeth. You will have to make sure you only receive a ceramic filling. It proves common to bond them with silver amalgam for even greater strength.

The Current Situation

As of now, the safety of dental amalgam fillings is still being evaluated. It may be years before we understand whether they are entirely safe or not. In the meantime, cautious patients should choose mercury-free options to avoid potential health risks down the road.

Failed Root Canal Symptoms

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Categories: Root canals

A root canal involves the removal of the center portion of your teeth, often referred to as the “pulp.” The pulp is made up of connective tissue, blood vessels, and nerves. The dental procedure is necessary when that portion of your tooth becomes infected, injured, or inflamed. The procedure is highly effective, but it can fail in some cases. Below you will find the most common failed root canal symptoms.

Failed Root Canal Symptoms

Root canals have over a 95% success rate. However, there are some cases where a root canal can fail. If you see any of the following signs of a failed root canal, contact a dental professional immediately.

  • Pain: Some pain is normal after a root canal so it’s important to talk with your dentist in Arcadia about how you are feeling. You should experience mild pain for just a few days. If your pain is persistent and lasts beyond the first few days after your procedure, it may be a cause for concern. Pain after the first few days is often caused by inflammation.
  • Inflammation is often a sign of an infection so it’s important to get it examined right away.
    Swelling: Some swelling is also normal after your root canal procedure. In fact, some patients experience swelling for one to three days post-procedure. Usually over-the-counter medication can help reduce your symptoms. However, swelling beyond the third day is a sign of an infection. This is serious and should be addressed with your dentist immediately.
  • Discharge: Pus or discharge should not occur, even right after your procedure. If you notice pus or discharge (especially if it’s mixed with blood) after your root canal, it is a cause for concern. Pus and abnormal discharge are often associated with an infection. You need treatment right away if your root canal has failed and there are any lingering signs of infection.

Treatment for a Failed Root Canal

Getting a root canal in Arcadia after a failed root canal is necessary for your dental and overall health. The treatment is essentially the same as the original root canal as the focus is to remove the infected, inflamed, or injured pulp from your tooth. The purpose of a root canal is to remove the bacteria from the inside of your tooth. This is done through drilling a small hole into your tooth and then removing the material inside.

The area is disinfected to ensure there is nothing left behind. When the pulp is removed your tooth is then sealed to ensure nothing can get in or out. If your first root canal failed, a dentist will reopen your tooth to get back in to clean everything out. While nobody wants to have back to back root canals, it is necessary for your health. If you are concerned that you may need a root canal, contact the team at Premier Dental Esthetics.

Benefits of a Root Canal

The risks associated with an untreated root canal can be serious. This is why a root canal is a highly beneficial treatment as it preserves your natural tooth and improves your oral health. There are a number of benefits to a root canal including the prevention of tooth loss, infecting neighboring teeth, and it prevents jaw bone degeneration. The procedure is also cost-effective and can help save you on future dental bills. Failing to get a root canal can result in a number of dental issues later on. A root canal can preserve your natural tooth, but if left untreated, you may need tooth extraction and a tooth replacement. If you are concerned you may need a root canal, contact a dental professional immediately.

Dangers of Gum Disease

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Categories: Gum disease

As one of the leading causes of infection and death among adults across the entire world, the dangers of gum disease cannot go understated. Through a series of stages, gum disease advances through the mouth until it spreads the infection to your whole body. It can be prevented and treated at its earlier stages, but it becomes harder to treat the more advanced it gets.

Dangers of Gum Disease

Below, our dentist in Arcadia will speak on the biggest dangers of gum disease while helping you learn the different stages of this condition. You’ll become more familiar with what to expect and how to spot the signs and symptoms of gum disease early so you can get the best treatment.

Risks of Gum Disease

Gum disease can put you at risk for decay, infection, disease, and even death. You might be more at risk for periodontitis and other forms of gum disease if you pose any of these risks already:

  • Bad health habits
  • Smoking and drinking heavily
  • Pregnancy or hormonal changes
  • Prior diagnosis of gingivitis
  • Nutrition deficiency
  • Poor diet and obesity
  • Genetic predisposition

If you are at risk of gum disease or you have been previously diagnosed, it is important to reach out to your dentist to get the best treatment ASAP. The longer you wait, the worse your disease will get. This can lead to more advanced dental health issues down the line that can cost you your wallet – and possibly even your life.

Stages of Gum Disease

The best way to practice prevention is to visit your dentist regularly and teach yourself how to recognize the different stages of gum disease. You can find them as follows:

Stage 1: The Early Signs

Gum disease can sometimes be hard to spot in its early stages, as there may not be any symptoms. It will not be until the next stage that you start to notice swollen gums or painful teeth.

You might notice some slight bleeding when you eat hard food such as candy or apples. If the bleeding becomes more severe, keep an eye out and contact your dentist immediately.

Stage 2: Gingivitis

This is the most serious and easily reversible part of gum disease. Gingivitis is the first stage of gum disease. This is when you start to notice symptoms like swelling, irritation, or sensitivity. You will notice symptoms that cause you pain when this stage is complete. You can begin treatment with prescribed products that will reverse the effects of gingivitis by visiting your dentist.

Stage 3: Periodontitis

Gingivitis can progress to periodontitis if not treated quickly and effectively. Inflammed, tender gums can develop early in gum disease. These gums will likely be very painful. Your gums may also be prone to bleeding when you brush your teeth.

Your gums might have become pale and your teeth may feel loose. You should immediately call your dentist if you notice this. This will ensure that your teeth end up saved.

Stage 4: Moderate Gum Disease

Moderate periodontitis appears as visible receding gums and jawbone disintegration. Your gums recede and expose your roots, causing them to fall out. It is also easier for decay and infection to spread throughout the mouth. Your gum disease can become more severe the longer you let it spread. If your gum disease proves advanced, you should immediately contact a doctor.

Stage 5: Advanced Gum Disease

Advanced periodontitis is a condition that can only be treated if the gum disease is not treated. You will almost certainly lose one or more of your teeth in this period, and your gums could never heal without surgery.

You may be able if your gum disease is detected early enough to receive antibiotic treatment. There is not much you can do if the disease is advanced. It may be necessary to remove your teeth and look for more advanced restorative dentistry options.

Recognize and Treat Gum Disease ASAP!

Experiencing any of the above signs and symptoms of gum disease? Or worried about ending up too late for treatment? Reach out to our Smiles of Arcadia specialists ASAP. We offer advanced gum disease treatment in Arcadia that you can follow along with a personalized treatment plan depending on the nature of your gums.