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All About Implants

My teeth were starting to deteriorate, and I was running out of options to repair them. The dentist gave me a choice. I could wait until the bone loss was so bad that I would have to have my teeth removed and get dentures, or I could have them removed now and get dental implants. I opted for the implants. If you’re thinking of getting dental implants, you probably have a lot of questions. I love mine, but they took some getting used to. In this blog, I’m sharing my experience and all the information that I picked up throughout my implant experience. You can find out what the procedure entails, how to prepare for your implants, and how to care for them once they’re in.

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Three Tips For Dealing With Gum Disease

by Alfredo Moore

Gum disease has three stages – gingivitis, periodontal disease, and advanced periodontitis. Bleeding gums, loose teeth, a receding gumline, or visible sores on the gums or around the teeth are an indication of the disease. The early stages, gingivitis and periodontal disease, are easier to treat successfully but you have to be dedicated to proper care. The following tips can help.

Tip #1: Keep Up With Professional Cleanings

Your dentist, periodontist, or hygienist will make a cleaning schedule recommendation based upon the stage of your gum disease and your health profile. Frequency varies because everyone builds up plaque at different rates, depending on genetics, diet, and general dental hygiene. The regular recommendation is to come in twice a year if you have healthy teeth and gums, and every three months if you have periodontal disease. Keep in mind though, that your dentist may recommend a different schedule because how often you get cleanings is actually highly dependent on your oral health and how quickly plaque builds up in your mouth. The goal is to have all plaque removed before it hardens into tartar. Tartar is highly porous, so it becomes a breeding ground for the bacteria that cause gum disease.

Tip #2: Create a Home Routine

Brushing twice daily and flossing once daily may not be enough if you have gum disease. Instead, plan to brush after every meal to minimize tartar and plaque. Use a soft bristle brush and don't scrub too hard – hard bristles and over-exuberant scrubbing can contribute to receding gums. Floss at least once a day, preferably in the evening so food doesn't sit beneath the teeth overnight. Finally, consider investing in a small rubber-tipped dental pick. You can use this tool to trace along the bottom of the teeth, right at the gum line, to remove any beginning layers of plaque that escape toothbrush or floss, before they can develop into hard tartar.

Tip #3: Use a Medicated Mouthwash

A prescription strength antimicrobial mouthwash can cut down on the bacteria in your mouth, which in turn can help prevent a gum infection from occurring. This gives your gums the chance to heal and prevents your gum disease from spreading or becoming more severe. Your dentist can prescribe this mouthwash for you. If you are unable to see a dentist right away, your regular physician may also be able to prescribe a medicated mouthwash. At the very least, use an over-the-counter, anti-bacterial mouthwash after brushing your teeth.

If you have or suspect that you have gum disease in any stage, contact a dentist or hygienist in your area for a prompt cleaning and assessment of your gum health.

For teeth cleaning, contact an office such as Carolina Forest Family Dentistry

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