Deep pockets along with bleeding gums are a sign that there is active disease in the tissues supporting or keeping your teeth in place. If left untreated over time it can lead to infection, pain, tooth movement and loss of surrounding bone and teeth. Gum Disease is also liked with Heart Disease, Diabetes and PreTerm Birth, which means that if the disease is left untreated you may not just experience loss of teeth, your overall health can be affected.

I am missing a tooth, I was told that an implant is an option for me. What are the different types of implants, and which are the best?

An implant is the closest restoration to a natural tooth with the highest long term success rate. It replaces the missing tooth without having to prepare or “drill down” healthy neighboring teeth. It will not get more cavities and it can be maintained easier because you can floss it like other teeth without having to thread under something to get through.

I think I might have a cracked tooth, what should I do?

You should avoid chewing hard foods on that tooth until you can have it examined by a dentist. Depending on the severity of the fracture you may want to avoid chewing on it all together. Avoid extreme temperatures. Have it examined and treated if necessary, as soon as possible so that the crack does not get larger or potentially propagate until it splits the tooth in half.

I finally have my oral health up to date. What do I need to do to prevent decay and gum disease?

Congratulations! Careful brushing that removes plaque at the gumline at least twice a day and daily flossing will help you maintain your oral health in between dental visits. If you are one of those people that no matter how much you brush or floss you still get cavities, don’t get discouraged, there are additional therapies that might be beneficial in maintaining what you have achieved. There are multiple reasons why people continue to have problems with their teeth. Genetics, anatomy or shape of the teeth, acidity in the mouth, diet, excessive forces, chewing on ice can all contribute to recurring problems. Identifying what factors ate affecting you can help. A night guard can slow down wear and tear if you clench or grind your teeth at night. A prescription grade fluoride toothpaste may be appropriate if you have a high risk of getting more cavities. Remineralization therapy with MI Paste may be appropriate if you have many “soft spots” or demineralized whitish patches on the teeth.
Visit your dentist every 6mo for a regular check up and professional cleaning and keep up the good work!

For more information visit Lakeline Ranch Dental Austin