Smiles of Memorial News

When Is Tooth Extraction Required?

January 9, 2023

No one likes to think about having a tooth extraction, but sometimes it is necessary. Tooth extractions are not recommended unless necessary, and a qualified dentist should only perform them. This blog will explore the situations in which a dentist may advise for tooth extraction and what to expect during the procedure.

Reasons for Extractions

There are many reasons why your dentist may recommend a tooth extraction treatment. These reasons include damage from trauma, decay beyond repair, infection, crowding from wisdom teeth, braces, or other orthodontic appliances, and pre-surgical preparation for other procedures.

To determine whether tooth extraction is the right solution, it’s important to consult a dentist and discuss your individual case in detail. The dentist will evaluate your oral health and review any symptoms you may be experiencing as well as any concerns you have about tooth removal. They may also perform X-rays or other diagnostic tests to help determine causing your tooth issues and recommend the best course of action in the future.

The Procedure

Before any procedure begins, your dentist will take an X-ray of the affected area to determine the best course of action. Once the X-ray is complete, the extraction process can begin. Your dentist will first administer local anesthesia so that you do not feel any pain during the procedure. Depending on the extraction’s complexity, your dentist may use forceps or another instrument to remove the tooth. After all pieces have been removed, and any remaining debris has been cleared away, gauze will be placed over the area to stop bleeding and promote clotting. It is important to follow your dentist’s instructions regarding aftercare in order to ensure that you heal properly after having a tooth extracted.

Recovery From Extraction

After having a tooth extracted, it is normal to experience some swelling and soreness around the area where your tooth was removed, as well as some minor bleeding; however, if these symptoms persist longer than expected or become more severe, it is essential to contact your doctor right away as this could be an indication of infection or other complications related to healing from an extraction procedure. Additionally, if you experience any dizziness or nausea after extraction, it is important that you seek medical attention immediately.

Conclusion:

Tooth extractions are never taken lightly by dentists; they are only recommended when necessary as part of treatment or prevention plans for dental health issues such as infection or overcrowding caused by wisdom teeth growth. If you have concerns about whether you need a tooth extraction, then speak with your dentist – they’ll be able to assess your situation and advise on whether an extraction would be beneficial for you in terms of improving overall oral health.

FAQs:

Q. What is a tooth extraction?

Answer: A tooth extraction is a simple dental procedure in which a tooth or multiple teeth are removed from the mouth. This may be done for various reasons, such as to remove a damaged or decayed tooth, to prepare the mouth for orthodontic treatment, to make room for other teeth to realign, or to correct an overcrowding issue. During the procedure, an oral surgeon will first numb the area around the affected tooth with local anesthesia and then use specialized instruments to gently loosen and remove it from its socket in the jaw.

Q. What are the risks associated with tooth extractions?

Answer: While generally safe when performed by an experienced professional, there can be potential risks associated with tooth extractions. These include pain and discomfort during and after surgery, infection of the wound site, dry socket (which is a condition caused by exposed bone in the jaw due to inadequate healing), nerve damage resulting in numbness or tingling sensations in your gums and/or lips, and excessive bleeding. Therefore it’s important that you follow all pre-operative instructions carefully and use any medications prescribed by your dentist after surgery.

Q. How long does it take for a tooth extraction to heal?

Answer: The actual healing process following a tooth extraction usually takes anywhere from one week up to several weeks, depending on various factors, including age, the health condition of the patient, and the complexity of the surgery. It is normal for some minor bleeding and swelling post-operatively; however, if these symptoms persist or worsen over time, you must consult your oral surgeon as soon as possible. Patients should generally abstain from strenuous physical activity for at least 72 hours after their procedure; however, your oral surgeon may advise you differently based on individual circumstances. Additionally, smoking should be avoided during recovery time since this can greatly impair healing times.

5 Treatment Options for Bleeding Gums

January 3, 2023

It is important to seek treatment immediately at the first sign of bleeding gums. Several treatment options are available, from more conservative methods like changes in diet and oral hygiene habits to more advanced treatments like surgical procedures or antibiotic therapies.

5 Ways to Stop Bleeding Gums

Some of the most common treatment options for bleeding gums include:

Way 1. Diet and Lifestyle Modifications

Changing your diet and incorporating regular exercise into your routine can help promote healthy blood flow throughout your body, including your gums. This can help prevent gum disease and reduce inflammation in the gums.

Way 2. Occlusal Adjustments

An uneven or incorrect bite alignment that causes excess pressure on certain areas of your teeth can also contribute to bleeding gums. An occlusal adjustment, or bite treatment, can help to reduce this pressure and prevent further damage to your oral health.

Way 3. Oral Hygiene Treatments

Brushing and flossing regularly is essential for keeping your teeth and gums healthy and free from plaque buildup that may lead to gum disease. To get the most out of your oral hygiene routine, consider using products like mouthwashes or fluoride treatments that can provide added benefits for reducing inflammation in the gums and preventing infection.

Way 4. Surgical Procedures

In severe cases where treatment methods like dietary changes and oral hygiene cannot effectively address bleeding gums, surgical procedures may be recommended as a last resort. Procedures like laser gum surgery or tissue grafting can help to repair damaged tissue and improve the overall health of your gums.

Way 5. Antibiotic Therapies

In some cases, treatment for bleeding gums may also involve antibiotics. This is most commonly recommended for gum disease individuals at a higher risk of developing other infections or complications due to their compromised immune system. Talk to a dentist near your location about whether antibiotic therapy may be right for you.

Final Words

While many treatment options are available for bleeding gums, it is important to work with your dentist or doctor to find the best option that fits your individual needs and preferences. Whether making small changes in your diet and lifestyle habits, undergoing oral hygiene treatments like scaling and root planing, or opting for more advanced treatment options like surgical procedures or antibiotic therapies, there are many ways to manage bleeding gums and improve your overall oral health. So if you notice any signs of bleeding gums, seek treatment immediately and work with your healthcare provider to find the best treatment option for you.

FAQs:

Q. What are the causes of bleeding gums?

A: A variety of issues can cause bleeding gums.
1. Plaque and calculus buildup,
2. Medical conditions such as diabetes or scurvy,
3. Vitamin C deficiency, hard brushing with worn-out bristles or incorrect brushing habits,
4. Ill-fitting dentures and mouth ulcers may contribute to this problem,
5. Even hormonal changes due to pregnancy or menstruation!

Q. Is it normal for gums to bleed while flossing?

A: No, healthy gums don’t need to bleed. Plaque build-up causes the gum tissue around your teeth to become inflamed and irritated, so if you floss regularly, you can help reduce this irritating plaque before it becomes an issue!

Q. How can bleeding gums be cured?

A: To ensure healthy gums and strong teeth, avoid plaque build-up. Incorporate good oral hygiene habits into your lifestyle, don’t smoke if possible, take time for self-care to reduce stress levels, and get enough essential vitamins such as C and K.

Q. How are bleeding gums related to high blood pressure?

A: Patients using medications to regulate their BP should be aware that they could increase the risk of bleeding gums while brushing or eating chewy foods. Medications like aspirin and Coumadin are especially likely to cause this side effect, so extra oral care is recommended for those taking these drugs.

How To Care For Dental Sealants Through Christmas & New Year?

December 22, 2022

The holidays are a time of joy and celebration, but taking care of your dental sealants this season can be tricky. Between Christmas parties and New Year’s celebrations (in addition to all the yummy treats that come with them), it can sometimes be difficult to remember the helpful habits you’ve learned to keep your teeth healthy and strong! But do not worry – with a few steps and tips, you can easily protect the condition of your dental sealants throughout the festive period. In this blog post, we’ll go into some practical advice on how best to preserve and maintain both short-term and long-term oral health during one of the year’s busiest times.

10 Tips To Take Care Of Your Dental Sealants Through The Festive Season

The best dentist in Houston has provided the most effective tips to take care of your dental sealants this festive season.

Tip 1. Brush Your Teeth Twice a Day

Make sure to brush twice a day for two minutes. It is advisable to use fluoride toothpaste. Brushing regularly helps keep bacteria away from the sealant and keeps it safe from any damage or deterioration.

Tip 2. Flossing should be Included in Your Daily Regime

Flossing should also be part of your regular routine. At least once a day is considered ideal. Flossing your teeth helps remove plaque before it can build up underneath the sealant and cause it to break down over time.

Tip 3. Certain Food Items should be Avoided

Avoid eating sticky foods, such as gummy candies and caramels, which can pull at the sealant and cause it to come off prematurely.

Tip 4. You Should Limit the Intake of a Few Beverages

Limit sugary drinks like soda or juice that can increase plaque buildup on teeth around the sealant area. Drink plenty of water throughout the day instead.

Tip 5. Include Fruits and Vegetables in Your Daily Diet

Chew crunchy fruits and vegetables such as apples or carrots in your daily diet. These food items will help clean off plaque near the dental sealant area without prematurely damaging or wearing them down.

Tip 6. Avoid Hard Objects

Try to avoid chewing hard objects like ice cubes or popcorn kernels which could chip away at the bond between tooth enamel and dental sealant material leading to premature failure of the restoration process.

Tip 7. Rinse with Mouthwash

Rinsing with mouthwash helps kill bacteria that can lead to tooth decay and cavities. So, make sure you rinse with an antibacterial mouthwash at least once a day during the holidays (and all year round). This will help keep your dental sealant in tip-top condition.

Tip 8. Drink Plenty of Water

Drinking plenty of water is essential for keeping your gums hydrated and healthy throughout Christmas & New Year. Plus, it will help wash away any leftover food particles from between teeth that could otherwise cause plaque buildup leading to cavities or other issues with your dental health down the line!

Tip 9. Use Fluoride Toothpaste

Fluoride is an essential mineral that helps strengthen enamel and protect against cavities. Make sure you use fluoride-containing toothpaste when brushing your teeth over the holidays (and all year round).

Tip 10. Visit Your Dentist Regularly

It’s always a good idea to see your dentist regularly for dental checkups and cleanings, even if you have dental sealants in place. This will help ensure that they remain in good condition throughout the year (and especially during the holiday season).

Final Words

Taking care of your oral health should be a top priority all year round, especially during special occasions such as Christmas & New Year, when there are often more sugary treats around than usual! Following these 10 simple tips will go a long way toward ensuring that your dental sealants remain intact throughout this festive period — happy holidays everyone!

Most Common Dental Problems Experienced by Elderly

November 23, 2022

The chances of suffering from dental problems increase with age. Seniors are more likely to experience specific dental problems and related issues than younger people. We have provided the common dental problems faced by the elderly in this blog.

4 Most Common Dental Issues For Seniors

Go through detailed information related to the four most common dental problems faced by seniors.

1. Tooth Decay

Tooth decay can be defined as the erosion of the enamel caused due to the bacteria present in the plaque. It can affect people of all ages but is more common in young individuals. But, tooth decay also happens in the case of the elderly as it is considered to be a significant reason behind people going for tooth extraction over the age of sixty-five.

If your dentist notices any signs of tooth decay, they will give you tips on how to maintain better oral hygiene and might suggest getting a filling to retain the tooth’s structure.

2. Gum Disease

Gum disease or periodontal problems can also happen due to the bacteria present in the plaque if it reaches the gums and leads to inflammation of the gum tissue. Sometimes teeth can become loose and fall out if periodontitis is allowed to develop.

According to the recent National Survey of Adult Oral Health, more than half (53.4%) of adults aged 65 and over have gum disease, putting seniors at a high risk of suffering from this condition. Elderly people are also more likely to develop gum disease, which can ultimately be the reason for tooth loss.

A proper oral hygiene routine can help treat gum disease in its early stages (gingivitis). But, you must consult your dentist about gum disease treatment if your gums are sore, itchy, or bleeding when you floss and brush.

3. Dry Mouth

Dry mouth is very common in the case of seniors. Your saliva is the first defense against tooth decay or cavities. So, you are more likely to develop cavities and decay when your saliva production is insufficient. A dry mouth can be caused due to intake of certain medications. Cancer treatments that utilize radiation on the neck and head area can also contribute to the chances of having a dry mouth.

This issue can be resolved by drinking an adequate amount of water on a daily basis. It stimulates your salivary glands to produce more saliva and helps prevent your mouth from drying.

4. Darkened Teeth

Years of ingesting foods and drinks that stain teeth cause a natural darkening of the teeth. Additionally, as we age, the enamel on our teeth ages, and the thinning enamel exposes the yellow dentin beneath. A tooth or teeth that have discolored occasionally may be a sign of a more serious underlying problem and need to be examined by your dentist.

Final Words

We hope you now clearly understand the common dental problems faced by the elderly. Just know that any sort of dental problem can be reversed and treated with the help of proper treatment. So, get in touch with a reliable dentist near you and easily ensure your overall dental health’s well-being.

At Smiles of Memorial Of Houston – Viet Tran DMD, we offer the best quality general and family dentistry services in Houston, TX. So, get in touch with us today if you are looking for premium dental care at an affordable price range.

What Happens If The Root Canal Treatment Was Left Incomplete?

October 31, 2022

Root canal treatment involves cleaning out a tooth’s pulp that has become inflamed or infected. It can save teeth and restore their functionality. Usually, the area is sealed once the root canal is completed to stop bacteria from re-entering. This helps to prevent any sort of infection and leaves your tooth intact. Dental crowns are used to protect the teeth underneath and enable you to use the tooth again.

Complications may arise if a patient has undergone a prior root canal, but the dentist did not finish the abovementioned steps. Pain around the treatment area is considered to be one of the primary signs that the root canal has not been completed correctly. It is advisable to consult a dentist as early as possible in such a situation. This blog will discuss what happens if a root canal is partially done.

What Can Happen If The Root Canal Treatment Is Not Completed?

The infected region is cleaned during a root canal treatment. If the treatment is not completed, the bacteria can enter the area and cause severe infection. The infection spreads to the other regions of the mouth or jawbone if the issue is not addressed on time. It can also lead to the development of abscesses which requires emergency care.

If you have swollen tissue or are experiencing pain near the tooth where the root canal was done, consult a dentist immediately. Patients can also feel tenderness or pain near the neck or jaw.

Potential Dangers If The Root Canal Treatment Is Left Unfinished

We have provided the potential dangers that can occur if the root canal treatment is not completed. Go through the pointers below to gather detailed information.

Infection – There may be risks associated with not finishing a root canal treatment based on how severe and harmful the bacteria are. Even minor conditions can become complicated if it is not addressed on time.
Swelling and pain – Pain and swelling in the gums are the common symptoms of an incomplete root canal treatment. The first and most obvious symptom of an inadequate root canal procedure is likely to be discomfort and gumline swelling. While tooth infections frequently occur in a tooth’s root and nerve tissue, the bacteria can penetrate into the gum line and cause severe swelling and redness.
Tooth loss – The teeth can become loose and ultimately fall out when the bone erodes. Even though the initial infection might only lead to the loss of a single tooth, it may result in further losses if it is not fully treated.

Root canal treatment is the most effective way to treat an infected tooth. An infection caused by incomplete root canal treatment can also be life-threatening. While people think that root canal treatment is excruciating, it can be a life-saving procedure if performed under the supervision of a trained and experienced dental professional.

Are You Looking For Root Canal Treatment?

Earlier, the only solution for teeth with infected and damaged roots used to be extraction. The advancements in the field of dentistry have made it possible for this problem to be solved with the help of root canal treatment. So, if you are suffering from issues related to having infected teeth, choosing root canal treatment can be a perfect pick.

We at Smiles Of Memorial offer the best quality root canal in houston, TX. Our dentist focuses on understanding the requirements of the patients and makes sure to handcraft the treatment plans accordingly. Give us a call today to schedule an appointment if you need root canal treatment.

What Is Considered as a Dental Emergency?

September 21, 2022

Dental emergencies can be stressful and dangerous for your oral health. Ignoring such problems for a long time can make you suffer long-term damage. They might also require complicated and expensive treatments. Dental issues like chipped or cracked teeth, toothaches, tooth loss, or discomfort from a crown may be considered severe conditions that necessitate a quick response. In this blog, we will discuss essential details related to dental emergencies. Go through the sections below to gain a better understanding of the topic.

What Is A Dental Emergency?

People often fail to understand that not every dental problem should be considered a dental emergency. Asking yourself a few simple questions can help determine if you are facing a dental emergency. They are:

Are you suffering from immense pain? This is a very prominent sign of a dental emergency.
Have you lost one or multiple teeth? Acting immediately can help to save the tooth.
Do you have loose teeth? You need to know that a loose tooth, even without pain, is a serious problem. It is not healthy for adults to have loose teeth.
Is there an infection? Since an abscess or significant oral infection can be fatal, treatment should not be delayed at any cost.
Are you bleeding from the mouth? Traces of bleeding is a sign of a dental emergency.

Any dental issue requiring urgent care to stop bleeding, lessen excruciating pain, or save a tooth is generally seen as an emergency. This also holds true for serious infections that pose a risk to life.

Dental Emergencies That Need Immediate Attention

Emergency dental care is required every time a tooth is harmed or dislodged from the gums. We have provided the four common dental emergencies when you should always seek immediate medical assistance.

1. Knocked-Out Tooth

A tooth that has been knocked out can be painful and must be treated immediately. It is always advisable not to touch the tooth’s root. Put the tooth in a glass of milk or water, apply a cold compress on your mouth, and head to a dentist offering emergency dental care as soon as you can.

2. Chipped Or Cracked Tooth

Although a crack or chip might appear to be not very serious, there can be hidden damage deeper in the tooth. Additionally, there can be damage to the adjacent teeth. Make an appointment with a dentist on the same day to determine what dental procedures are required to repair the tooth.

3. Abscessed Tooth

An abscessed tooth is caused when a pus pocket forms at the root of a tooth. It can be a life-threatening situation due to the potential for the infection to spread to other body parts. This is a serious infection that requires an immediate visit to a dental office offering premium emergency care.

4. Orthodontic Emergencies

You can usually wait until the next available appointment to visit your orthodontist if a bracket is damaged or loose. However, you should visit your dentist immediately if the condition worsens and pieces of the orthodontic equipment start to cause open wounds, extensive bleeding, or serious irritation.

What Are Tips To Avoid Dental Emergencies?

Adopting a few measures can help avoid the chances of suffering from dental emergencies.

1. You Should Practice An Oral Hygiene Routine

Brushing and flossing regularly for the overall well-being of your teeth and gums is essential. Bacteria tend to accumulate quickly in food debris which can be the reason for gum disease or tooth decay. Infections can harm the gums and teeth and may necessitate a trip to the dental office offering emergency dental care.

2. Use A Mouthguard

Everyone can benefit from mouthguards, especially if you participate in sports. Mouth guards protect your teeth by absorbing hard impacts to the mouth. Mouthguards are recommended when engaging in contact sports and leisure activities where the likelihood of falling and taking a hard blow is higher.

3. Watch What You Eat

Most likely, you were taught as a child that candy, crackers, and starchy, sugary foods are terrible for your teeth. Drinks, including coffee, fruit juice, soda, and alcohol, should all be avoided or consumed in moderation. Sticky foods often get stuck between teeth and are challenging to remove. If you bite down on tough, crunchy foods too forcefully, it might harm your teeth and result in a dental emergency. Be careful to avoid any food that demands too much force for chewing.

4. Go For Routine Dental Checkups

You should visit your dentist at least twice yearly for professional cleaning sessions and dental exams. The dentist is trained to remove stubborn plaque deposits that cannot be cleaned by routine brushing. You risk suffering from cavities and gum disease if you don’t visit the dentist regularly. The dentist will perform preventive care during your appointment and carefully evaluate your oral cavity for any indications of dental problems.

We hope you now know what a dental emergency is and when to consult a dentist. Always remember that panicking during such a situation can make things worse. Try to calm your mind and visit a dentist near you as soon as possible.

6 FAQs Related To Dental Crowns

August 29, 2022

Dental crowns are an excellent way to resolve problems related to discolored, cracked, or weakened teeth. This treatment option has been used for quite some time and yields excellent outcomes. In this blog, the best dentist in Houston has come up with answers to common questions related to dental crowns.

1. Do You Really Need Dental Crowns?

As mentioned before, dental crowns can be used to effectively fix broken, discolored, or worn-out teeth. They can also be used to attach dental bridges and are recommended to protect teeth after root canal treatment. So, if you are facing such situations, look for a dental office offering dental crown treatment immediately. Talking to a dentist will help you determine if dental crowns are a perfect choice.

2. Will Your Dental Crowns Look Natural?

Dental crowns will look natural since they are created to match the color of your teeth. If you need multiple teeth crowned, your dentist will discuss how it is possible to achieve a natural-looking smile.

3. Is The Process Of Placing Dental Painful?

The procedure is typically painless, although every patient is different. Some people have no discomfort at all, while others have some sensitivity to cold or hot. Do not hesitate to inform your dentist if you face any such problems. Your dentist will make sure to resolve the issues as early as possible.

4. How Many Appointments Does The Process Take?

Two visits to the dental office are usually necessary for dental crowns. The first appointment involves preparing your tooth, taking the molds, and making a permanent crown. Also, a temporary crown will be placed during the initial appointment. Your permanent crown will be appropriately fitted and installed during the second visit.

5. Can A Crowned Tooth Get Dental Cavities?

Even though the dental crown cannot develop a cavity, the tooth beneath can suffer from such problems! You should therefore take the same care of your crowned teeth as you do with your natural teeth. Try to maintain a proper dental hygiene routine which should include brushing at least twice a day, flossing, using a mouthwash, etc.

6. How Long Do Dental Crowns last?

Dental crowns can really last for a long time if you take proper care of them. The crown may become weak or even fall out if the natural tooth beneath it begins to decay. It’s crucial to go for regular dental consultations so that your dentist can ensure that the crowns last for a long span and that the supporting teeth are in good condition.

We hope you are now aware of essential details about dental crowns. Book an appointment with Smiles of Memorial Of Houston if you are looking for the best dental crown treatment in Houston, TX. Give us a call today to schedule your visit.

How Cosmetic Dentistry Can Change The Way You Smile?

July 15, 2022

Cosmetic dentistry is an emerging field of dentistry that helps create beautiful smiles in you. Not everyone has a great smile. Cosmetic dentistry focuses on improving a smile’s aesthetic appearance rather than preventing, diagnosing, and treating oral diseases, which is what general dentistry does. A cosmetic dentist in Houston can perform various dental procedures depending on the patient’s needs and requirements. A cosmetic dentist not only repairs your teeth but also straightens, lightens, and reshapes your teeth. Some of the most common cosmetic dentistry procedures include dental crowns, bridges, veneers, implants, tooth-colored fillings, and teeth whitening.

Various Cosmetic Dentistry Treatment Methods

Out of the many treatment options available, dental veneers are considered to be ideal for those who have unsightly teeth or chipped teeth. It also helps in closing the unnecessary or excess gaps between the teeth. Dental veneers are thin sheets of porcelain that perfectly fit the visible part of the teeth. A small amount of enamel needs to be removed to prepare the veneer. The teeth impressions will be taken by the dentist and sent to the laboratory. Till the final permanent veneers arrive, the patient will have to wear temporary veneers.

Tooth-colored fillings are also a popular cosmetic dentistry method. The dentist can easily find the perfect match for the shade of the particular tooth. Thus with white-colored fillings, the person can easily hide unpleasant marks on their teeth. Similarly, dental crowns are a cosmetic dentistry method used for fixing a broken tooth. It is a cap placed over the crown of the teeth. Not only does it enhance the appearance of teeth, but it increases their strength as well. You will be provided with a temporary crown until you receive a permanent crown prepared by the dentist. Even though dental crowns are made of different materials, porcelain crowns are the most popular.

Dental bridges are a widely preferred cosmetic dentistry option if you are not fond of dentures as a replacement for your missing teeth. In this treatment method, a dental crown is placed on the teeth on either side of the gap, and a false tooth is then attached in the middle. Teeth whitening is also yet another popular cosmetic dentistry method. Teeth can become stained due to poor oral hygiene, smoking, and consuming acidic beverages such as tea, coffee, soda, etc. Even though teeth whitening kits are available in the market, it is ideal to go for professional in-office teeth whitening treatment from an experienced dental professional. A cosmetic dentist will carefully perform the procedure in a controlled environment to ensure the soft tissues are not damaged. Patients can experience better results after the completion of teeth whitening treatment.

If you are looking for a beautiful smile that you have always wanted, get in touch with your nearest cosmetic dentist in Houston for affordable, top-notch dental services.

Reason My Gums Are Receding

June 10, 2022

Healthy teeth contribute to a healthy-looking smile, you are probably more concerned about the condition of your teeth than the condition of your gums. But if you’ve noticed that your gums are pulling away from your teeth, you may be curious about the cause of this phenomenon and whether or not it poses any risks to your health. You can prevent the recession of your gums by visiting Smiles Of Memorial in Houston, TX for more information.

The base and roots of your teeth are held in place and protected by your gums. They provide a barrier around your teeth that is adequate to keep germs from entering the space between your teeth. However, when the gums begin to recede or have already pulled back, a greater portion of the tooth or teeth in question is visible.

The good news is that the gum recession may be reversed in certain cases. Let’s talk about what leads to this disease and how you may keep your gums from falling away from your teeth:

Why Are My Gums Receding, and How can I Stop Them?

Periodontal disease is when the gums tear away from your teeth, revealing the unsightly roots below the surface. Aggressive brushing, smoking, and even heredity may contribute to this condition. Antibiotics, antibacterial oral rinses, and surgery are among the options available.

There are some potential causes for your gums to begin to recede. Some are unavoidable, but many are genuinely preventable.

1. Age

As we become older, it is unavoidable that our gums will start to recede. However, if you brush your gums softly every time you clean your teeth, you may significantly reduce this problem’s severity. Always brush away from the gums, which means brushing downward on the top gums and brushing upward on the lower gums while doing your dental hygiene routine.

Additionally, flossing and washing the mouth regularly are effective ways to exercise the gums. Maintaining a high level of dental cleanliness will aid in the long-term preservation of robust and healthy gums.

2. Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease is the most common and primary cause of gum recession, which may be avoided. Gingivitis, the first stage, is a mild gum infection that manifests itself clinically as pink gums that are noticeably deeper in tone than they normally would be.

Bacteria are the root cause of gingivitis and periodontal disease, both of which attack the gum tissue and surrounding bone responsible for keeping teeth in place. Regular trips to the dentist are necessary to avoid this problem since a dentist is trained to recognize the warning symptoms of periodontal disease as soon as they appear. Redness, swelling, bleeding, and poor smell are some of the symptoms of this condition.

3. Poor Brushing Technique

As a result of poor brushing habits, such as over-cleaning your teeth or using a toothbrush with rough bristles, gum recession may occur. This is due to the fact that gums recede as a result of physical wear and strain. Ensure you wash your teeth carefully and use a toothbrush with soft or medium-sized bristles. Proper brushing technique includes bass technique, modified bass technique, etc.

4. Poor Oral Habits

Gum recession may be caused by some habits, including clenching and grinding your teeth, biting down forcefully, and even smoking. Talk to your dentist about acquiring a mouth guard if you tend to clench and grind your teeth while you sleep or participate in high-impact activities that lead you to do so (like basketball) since this may cause significant damage to your teeth. In addition, your gums will express their gratitude to you if you give up smoking.

5. Genes

Suppose an immediate family member has ever been diagnosed with periodontal disease. There is a greater possibility that you may also get the condition at some point in your life. Have a conversation with your dentist about the best ways to forestall the beginning and spread of the condition.

Visit the best Houston dentist near you for the best gum-related treatment.

5 Signs You Are In Need Of A Dental Filling

May 9, 2022

A dental filling is a common procedure used to restore damaged teeth using a filling. If your teeth have been damaged due to tooth decay, a dental filling procedure could help reverse the problem if the damage is minor. Several signs indicate your teeth need filling. This blog will discuss five signs that indicate that you need a dental filling.

1. Pain

Pain can be the first sign that could indicate whether it’s time for you to have your tooth filled. If you are experiencing severe pain while eating or drinking hot or cold drinks could be a sign that your tooth has decayed. One of the most common reasons for teeth sensitivity is the cavity. So if you are experiencing such symptoms, you will have to consult your nearest dentist, who will most likely recommend a dental filling treatment that is long-lasting and will help a lot.

2. Bleeding

While brushing or flossing your teeth, have you noticed that your teeth or gums are bleeding? If yes, it should be time for you to get a dental filling. However, gum bleeding could also be a sign of periodontal disease. The teeth or gum usually bleeds since you suffer from tooth decay or gingivitis. Your Houston dentist will check whether the problem can be cured with a dental filling.

3. Bad Breath

Bad breath problems are also commonly known as halitosis. Having bad breath also tells you that something is not right inside your mouth. It should not be left untreated. It is because it could be a sign of an underlying disease. Cavities could also cause bad breath problems. Cavities damage your teeth and could result in small holes within the teeth. More food particles will be trapped inside the hole as it gets larger. Thus it could eventually lead to bad breath.

4. Discolored Teeth

As cavities lead to smaller holes and bad breath, the possibility of teeth getting brittle and being chipped off is higher. It would be best if you always kept an eye on changes in the color of your teeth or any dark spots that you may notice. It could mean that a cavity has been formed in your teeth. A dental filling may be required to resolve the problem.

5. Increased Sensitivity to Sugary Foods

Sugary foods can cause increased sensitivity in the teeth in which cavities have been formed. Therefore, if you feel mild pain every time you eat sugary foods, it should be desirable to consult a dentist as you might have cavities in your teeth. The dentist in Houston may recommend a dental filling to get rid of cavities.