Scaling and root planing are two different procedures used to treat and prevent gum disease. They are typically performed one after the other for best results, and may need to be repeated on a regular schedule for a period of time until your gum disease is under control. How often do you need scaling and root planing? It depends on …
How Often Should You Get Your Teeth Cleaned?
Professional teeth cleanings are key to maintaining your oral health. A thorough cleaning by a dentist or periodontist removes plaque from your teeth, reducing your risk of tooth decay and periodontal (gum) disease. How often should you get your teeth cleaned? Here’s what dentists and dental specialists recommend for a teeth cleaning schedule. Teeth Cleaning for the Average Patient Most …
Fixed Dental Implant Bridges vs. Snap on Dentures
Are you in need of replacement teeth? When you need a significant number of teeth replaced, either a few in a row or a complete arch, there are a few options available. Dental implants are the best option, but they are a bit costly if you need multiples. The next best option is dental implant supported bridges and dentures. What’s …
The Advantages (and Disadvantages) of Dental Implants
If you experience tooth loss, your dentist might recommend a dental implant as a permanent solution. There are many benefits of getting dental implants, as well as some other things to consider. Here are some of the advantages and disadvantages of dental implants so that you can make an informed decision about whether or not the procedure is for you. …
Why Do I Have to See a Periodontist and My General Dentist?
Seeing a general dentist on a regular basis is a basic requirement for good oral health. Your general dentist can handle cleaning and caring for your teeth and most other dental procedures you may need, such as cavity fillings. But when you have severe gum disease or the need for dental implants or bone grafting procedures, you may be referred …
Why It is Important to Get Hopeless Teeth Extracted Before They Hurt
How do you know when you have a bad tooth? If you’ve ever had a toothache from a cavity or an infected tooth, you won’t soon forget it. But sometimes a tooth can be bad without causing you any pain. Sometimes you won’t feel it because the nerve is dead inside the tooth. Once a tooth is that far gone, …
Are Dental Implants Covered By Dental Insurance?
Dental implants have a reputation as being an expensive procedure. While the results should last you much longer than other restorative dental procedures, there are higher upfront costs. If you have dental insurance, you may wonder whether your insurance plan will cover dental implants. Unfortunately, the answer isn’t straight forward. It depends on a number of different factors. Some Dental …
Different Types of Gingival Grafting
Gingival Grafting, also called gum grafting, is a procedure used to thicken your gingiva and, in some cases, to cover recession under your teeth. This procedure is used for a variety of reasons including reinforcing your gums and teeth and for patients that have sensitivity due to recession. There are several procedures that fall under the Gingival Grafting umbrella and …
Dental Implant Pain and Recovery: What to Expect
Getting a dental implant can be a big relief for dental health problems, but there will be some discomfort along the way. The surgery requires significant time to heal, and you’ll need a reliable way to manage the pain while you recover. Here is what you can expect during your dental implant recovery. Varies Based on ComplexityThere will be some …
Dental Implant Alternatives: Know Your Options
Repairing and maintaining your teeth is often the best option for your dental health. Unfortunately, that is not always possible. If a dental implant is the chosen method of improving your dental health, then it is important to get the procedure done. However, there are other options besides dental implants that can help you improve your dental health if you …
A Step by Step Guide to Dental Implants
Dental implants can be a relief for anyone that has a damaged, broken, or missing tooth that needs to be replaced. Implants are put in every day, and a skilled dental surgeon can make the process much easier. If you need a dental implant, then knowing more about the process can help you prepare for it. Here is a step …
Why Dentistry Is Like an Iceberg
Oral health is more complex than it may seem. That’s because your tooth structure actually resembles an iceberg. What you see when you smile in the mirror is only the top portion of the structure. General dentists work above the water line—on the visible portion of your teeth above the gums. Periodontists are responsible for the areas below the water …