Dental Implants Must-Knows

dental implants must knows
  • Dental Implants Must-Knows
Dr. Uyen Hoang - dentist in Bethlehem GA

By Dr. Uyen Hoang

What to Know About Dental Implants

Many individuals are irritated by missing, disfigured, or badly damaged teeth. Gaps in your grin can have an influence not just on how you appear and feel, but also on your general dental health. Dr. Hoang, the best dentist in Bethlehem GA, explains that while there are various alternatives for replacing lost or damaged teeth, one that has grown in popularity is the dental implant. A dental implant Bethlehem GA, as opposed to dentures, is a permanent tooth replacement treatment. While the technique is more difficult than with ordinary dentures, it provides various advantages to dental patients. However, there are a ton of dental implants must-knows for those considering treatment. 

What exactly are dental implants?

A dental implant, as the name implies, is a device that is affixed to your jaw, beneath the gum line. Our Bethlehem GA dentist explains that this device fuses to your jaw, a dental expert can attach a metal post that functions as a “root” for an artificial tooth or a bridge of artificial teeth. Dental implants have become a popular alternative to traditional dentures. Contact our Loganville dentist office to learn more. 

Why should you choose implants over traditional dentures?

People prefer implants over traditional dentures for aesthetic and practical reasons. Many people enjoy the appearance of implants and appreciate not having to bother about inserting, removing, or cleaning their dentures.

Another reason many patients choose implants, Dr. Eastham, Grand Junction CO dentist explains, is that they want to be able to eat a variety of foods. Some foods, particularly those that are firm or sticky, might be difficult to consume with traditional dentures. Implants function similarly to natural teeth, making eating more comfortable and pleasant.

There is also the benefit of being able to care for your implant or implants. Unlike dentures, which may require specific cleaning and maintenance, implants may be cleaned with ordinary brushing and flossing. This not only saves you time, but it is also a more enjoyable approach to care for your teeth.

Other benefits of implants include not having to worry about dentures slipping when speaking, as well as the protection implants give for your jawbone. If you have gaps in your teeth, surrounding teeth may try to fill them. This is avoided with the use of an implant.

What Kinds of Dental Implant Materials Are There?

Titanium is commonly used for dental implants. This is the industry standard for implants and has been used successfully for decades. As follows, titatinum is also used to make the abutment (or post) that keeps the replacement tooth in place. Some dentists, however, utilize ceramic abutments as an alternative.

The replacement tooth (also known as a crown) can be manufactured of a variety of materials. Front-of-the-mouth crowns are frequently constructed of ceramic or porcelain because they are the most natural-looking and may be colored to match the rest of your teeth. Metal crowns may be recommended by a dentist in some circumstances for rear molars that are difficult to view. Metals are often more durable than ceramics or porcelain and may be a suitable alternative for folks who are concerned about harming their implants.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Dental Implant?

Obtaining a dental implant or implants is a multi-step procedure that might take months. You will be scheduled for implant placement once you and your dental expert have determined that you are a good candidate for the surgery. This may also necessitate the extraction of the damaged tooth to be replaced.

Your jaw and surrounding tissues will require time to recover once the implant is placed. This might take anywhere between 6 and 12 weeks. At this point, your dentist will examine the spot to ensure adequate healing and connect your replacement tooth.

What Should I Know About Dental Implant Recovery?

Dental implants are routinely placed under local anesthesia. You may need to take an over-the-counter pain reliever after the treatment to alleviate any discomfort. Your dentist will provide you guidelines for at-home aftercare, including when you should seek medical attention if you have bleeding, uncontrollable pain, or indications of infection.

What Kind of Aftercare Is Necessary?

After you have your implants, you will need to care for them in the same way that you would your natural teeth. This involves brushing and flossing twice a day and seeing the dentist on a regular basis for a cleaning and evaluation. Recent research has revealed that smoking can create difficulties with dental implants, so if you smoke, you should quit before getting your implants.

Contact our Restorative Dentistry Today

Ready to discuss your tooth replacement options? Contact Gentle Dental today. We can see if dental implants are the right option for you. 

Best Dental Tips For Thanksgiving

best dental tips for thanksgiving
  • Best Dental Tips For Thanksgiving
Dr. Uyen Hoang - dentist in Bethlehem GA

By Dr. Uyen Hoang

Best Dental Tips For Thanksgiving 2021

With all of the pumpkin pie, candied yams, stuffing, and cranberry sauce to eat on Thanksgiving, it’s crucial to maximize your dental health. Many of the sugary meals and candies we consume during the holidays are high in decay-causing sugar, which erodes our tooth enamel.

While you don’t have to avoid all of the sugary Thanksgiving delights, it’s a good idea to practice proper dental hygiene before and after all of the festivities. As follows, brushing, flossing, and seeing your Bethlehem GA dentist for an examination and cleaning will prevent tooth decay and leave you with a happy, healthy smile.  These guidelines to safeguard your dental health this Thanksgiving!

Thanksgiving is the time of year when we pause to reflect on everything that we are grateful for. We are extremely grateful for our good health. Thanksgiving is also a great opportunity to indulge in a variety of delectable goodies! Below, our Bethlehem GA dentist shares a few Thanksgiving dental guidelines to help you keep healthy while enjoying indulging in your favorite treats this holiday season.

Drink Plenty of Water

Not only is water excellent for you in general, but drinking water before meals helps you eat less and avoid overeating. Thus, our Loganville dental clinic asks you to stay hydrated to promote healthy saliva flow. This helps to wash away food from the teeth and reduces plaque buildup.

Please Do Not Use Your Teeth To Open Anything!

Please, please, please do not use your teeth to open anything! Our dentist in Bethlehem GA understand that the holidays may be stressful at times, especially with in-laws looking over your shoulder, but don’t rush! To open goods, use a bottle opener or a nut cracker.

Keep Brushing and Flossing

You’ll most likely be eating more meals on Thanksgiving, including a lot of sweet foods. Thanksgiving is a long day, so you’re certain to have some plaque buildup. Our friends at High Desert Dental, Grand Junction CO dentist, advise that you make sure you floss and clean your teeth thoroughly before going to bed!

Schedule a Post-Holiday Teeth Cleaning

Because the holidays are a hectic time, make an appointment now for after the holidays so you can enter 2022 with great dental health! Contact our team today to schedule a teeth cleaning in Bethlehem GA. 

Post Wisdom Tooth Instructions

Post Wisdom teeth instructions
  • Post Wisdom Tooth Instructions
Dr. Uyen Hoang - dentist in Bethlehem GA

By Dr. Uyen Hoang

Post Wisdom Teeth Instructions: Aftercare

If you’ve been told you need your wisdom teeth removed, you probably have a ton of questions. As follows, a surgical operation is required to remove impacted teeth. However, post-operative care is critical. If these guidelines are properly followed, unnecessary discomfort and problems, such as infection, can be avoided. Today on the blog, Dr. Hoang, the best dentist in Bethlehem GA, shares post wisdom teeth instructions.

Wisdom Tooth Removal Instructions Immediately After Surgery

First, our Loganville dental office explains that the gauze pad should be left over the operative region for around 30 minutes after surgery. Then, the gauze pad should be removed and disposed after this time. So, if bleeding occurs, a gauze is normally required on and off for around 24 hours after surgery. It is very typical to have some leakage over the first 24 hours.
Typically, pressure is all that is required to halt intraoral bleeding. Our Bethlehem GA dentist will explain correct gauze placement to you.
Following surgery, avoid vigorous mouth washing and/or touching the wound region. This may cause bleeding to begin by dislodging the blood clot that has formed. To achieve a smooth post-operative course, the pain medication must be used exactly as indicated.

Handling Bleeding Right After Wisdom Tooth Extraction

 Following surgery, some bleeding is to be expected. For the first 24-48 hours following surgery, little bleeding, leaking, or redness in the saliva is usual.

Importantly, significant bleeding occurs very seldom after wisdom teeth surgery. However, if you are bleeding, the first thing you should do is attempt to relax. Dr. O’Grady, Denver CO dentist, explains that if the bleeding persists, bite on a wet black tea bag for 30 minutes. Tannic acid in black tea aids in the formation of a clot by constricting bleeding vessels. To reduce future bleeding, sit upright, avoid being aroused, and prevent agitation, as these actions raise your blood pressure and, as a result, increase bleeding.

Then, if the bleeding does not stop, please contact our Bethlehem GA Dental office for further advice.

Sutures After Surgery 

Sutures are used in the surgical region to aid with healing and to reduce post-operative bleeding.  Then, simply remove the suture from your mouth and throw it away. After surgery, the sutures  Unless otherwise specified, they dissolve on their own.

A Few Days After 

The day after you get your wisdom teeth removed, you’ll want to stay off of your feet. After a few days, you can resume normal activity as soon as you feel comfortable.
Additionally, it’s okay to cold packs to the sides of your face where the procedure was done to reduce swelling after your home for a bit. 
Most importantly, our dentist 30620 urges patients to not smoke or use any other tobacco products, like vaping.

Swelling After Wisdom Tooth Extraction

Swelling is typically expected in every wisdom tooth extraction. However, it is not uinordinary to have swelling around the lips, cheeks, eyes, and sides of the face. For example, this is a typical reaction of the body following surgery and ultimate healing. Furthermore, swelling will not be seen until the day after surgery and will not reach its peak until 2-3 days later.

However, the swelling can be reduced by using cold packs right afterwards. Thus, we recommend two ice baggies or frozen peas should be put to the sides of the face where the procedure was conducted. While you are awake, the ice packs should be turned on and off at 20-minute intervals. Ice has no positive impact after 36 hours. 

Contact Gentle Dental Group For Wisdom Tooth Removal Near Me

In conclusion, we’re here to answer any questions you may have with post wisdom tooth instructions. Thus, contact our gentle family dentistry today to learn more. 

Dental Tips for Halloween

Dental tips for Halloween
  • Dental Tips for Halloween

Dental Tips for Halloween

There’s no disputing that Halloween  is loved by many. There’s a surplus of candy, fun costumes, and more. However, this might be a dental nightmare for the entire family.

Though candy is delicious, it can contribute to tooth decay. Luckily, there are a few simple methods to turn Halloween into an opportunity to teach your children about the significance of excellent oral hygiene. Below, our Bethlehem GA dentist shares some tricks to utilize when your kids get their hands on Halloween sweets, according to a family dentist:

1. Before Trick-or-Treating, Eat A Balanced Meal

To start, our Loganville dental office recommends eating a balanced meal for both children and adults. When people are hungry, they tend to make less healthful eating choices, regardless of age. Preparing a healthy, balanced meal for your child before a Halloween party or trick-or-treating will help them avoid overindulging.

2. Allow the children to choose what they want to keep.

Next, our pediatric dentist Bethlehem GA recommends getting rid of some of the candy.When you deny your kids the experience of trick-or-treating and collecting candy, it becomes even more attractive. Thus, they’re more likely to sneak into the kitchen for candy. Deprivation is not the best strategy to maintain a balanced diet, especially when discussing the dangers of eating too much sweets can help children quit bingeing.

In fact, Halloween is a fantastic time to discuss how reducing sugar and starchy foods can help prevent cavities. Additionally, this reduces the need for restorative dentistry such as fillings, and improve general health! Thus, our family dentistry in Bethlehem GA explains that when your children return from trick-or-treating or a Halloween celebration, look over their candy with them. Then, discuss which snacks they prefer and how much they should keep. Our friends over at Kissing Camels Family Dentistry, Colorado Springs dentist, gave an excellent tip. They detailed that some parents give their kids a few dollars to buy toys or books in exchange for the candy. 

3. Set aside time each day for treats.

Additionally, setting a time to have a treat each day is another pediatric dentistry tip that can help your child establish a good attitude toward sugary snacks and moderation in general. Looking forward to a specific time when they can eat a treat will help them think less about eating sweets throughout the day. Even building a reward system for excellent behavior, assisting with chores, and getting good grades in school might all lead to a tasty gift!

4. Establish an Oral Hygiene Routine

Brushing and flossing twice a day is essential for good dental health at any age—and we understand that the latter is a sensitive topic for many. Encourage your kids to brush their teeth around half an hour after they’ve had their treat, as well as in the morning and before night. Using a fluoride toothpaste and rinse developed for children can make brushing their teeth more fun and engaging for them, while also giving you peace of mind that their teeth are being safeguarded from decay.

Additionally, we recommend assisting youngsters under the age of eight with brushing and flossing; good oral health requires thorough brushing and flossing. Children over the age of eight should be supervised until they reach the age of adolescence. Brushing and flossing should be a well-established habit by then.

5. Dentist Tips for Making Brushing Fun

Halloween is also an excellent opportunity to purchase a new toothbrush for your child. Make it a fun affair by allowing your youngster to choose a toothbrush and toothpaste. Another excellent dental recommendation for families? Children are more likely to enjoy brushing and flossing their teeth when they like their toothbrush and toothpaste, so letting them choose their favorite superhero or Disney princess for their toothbrush is well worth the extra cost! Check your child’s toothbrush for damaged bristles on a regular basis; it should be replaced every three to four months for the optimum outcomes for their adorable grins.

Contact Gentle Dental Today for Pediatric Dentistry

If your child needs to book their second annual cleaning, after Halloween is a perfect time! Contact Gentle Dental today to get your child on our schedule. We look forward to seeing you soon!

How Dental Crowns Work

How Dental Crowns Work
  • How Dental Crowns Work

How Dental Crowns in Bethlehem GA Work

A dental crown is an increasingly popular cosmetic and restorative dentistry option. They resemble a tooth-shaped hollow “cap” that is placed over a prepared natural tooth. Crowns cover the visible part of the tooth that is at and above the gum line when cemented in place. Today on the blog, our Bethelehm GA Dentist, Dr. Hoang, explains how dental crowns work.

What is the purpose of a dental crown?

Additionally, Dr. Hoang, the best dentist in Bethlehem GA, shares that a crown’s primary role is to restore a tooth’s strength, functionality, form, and size, as well as to improve its appearance.

We connected with our friends at High Desert Dental, Grand Junction Co dentist, to discuss the situations that may require someone to get a crown. The following situations may necessitate the use of a crown:

  • First, a crown may be needed to keep a tooth that has become weakened (for example, due to decay) or broken from breaking by holding it together.
  • Another reason would be a crown needs to replace a tooth filling that is old, damaged, or deteriorating.
  • Additionally, a crown can be used to put a fractured tooth back together again.
  • Also, teeth that have been worn down need to be lengthened (for example from grinding) may need a crown.
  • Next, a crown is used If there isn’t much natural tooth structure left, to cover and support a tooth with a big filling.
  • Additionally, crowns can be used for cosmetic reasons. For example, crowns can be used to fill gaps between them or reshape or rotate them.
  • If you have to get a dental implant, you may need a crown to hold it in.
  • Additionally, any tooth that has had root canal therapy should be given a crown to restore its strength. As follows, a crown will not only improve the tooth’s appearance, but it will also safeguard it from additional wear and deterioration.

Of course, it is always a good idea to discuss tooth replacement options with your dentist in Bethlehem GA, such as an implant and crown.

What is the purpose of a temporary crown?

Whether or not you require a temporary crown is determined on the type of permanent crown you will receive.

A temporary crown is required if you have any other form of crown manufactured in a dental laboratory. Because the tooth must first be prepared (ground down) and fashioned to fit the crown, as well as imprints collected and sent to the dental laboratory. Then, while your permanent restoration is being created, you will have to wait for it to be cemented. During the waiting period, a temporary dental crown protects the tooth and gums, allows for continuing chewing function, and offers an attractive appearance.

Temporary crowns can be manufactured in the Bethlehem GA dentist office or in a dental laboratory ahead of time. Stainless steel or acrylic resin are the most common materials used (which is a metal free alternative that is matched to the natural teeth color). Most patients nowadays prefer resin since it is more cosmetically pleasant. Temporary stainless steel crowns are a wonderful choice for back teeth that are hidden.

The temporary crown is attached to the prepared tooth using a temporary cement glue. This is a particular substance that forms a weak bond, allowing the temporary crown to be readily removed once your permanent crown comes.

What is the process of getting a dental crown?

Dental crown processes will differ based on your specific situation, but we’ll give you a broad idea of what to expect.

Dr. Hoang will undertake an initial evaluation of your tooth and general mouth. This may involve x-rays, before beginning any crown preparation work. If the tooth has considerable decay or there is a risk of infection, a root canal treatment may be required first. Alternatively, there may be insufficient natural tooth structure to properly hold the crown in place. Thus, necessitating the use of a core or a post-and-core operation first (you can read more about this procedure above). If either of these treatments is necessary, you will be provided a treatment plan and scheduled appropriately. However, if everything is found to be in good working order, the appointment will go on as planned. Whether your crown is produced at your dentist’s office or in a dental laboratory, the method is different:

Contact Gentle Dental Group for Crowns in Bethlehem GA Today

Ready to see if crowns are for you? Contact Gentle Dental Group today. Our team would love to schedule a consultation with you to see if you’re the right fit for dental crowns. 

Post Root Canal Instructions

post root canal instructions bethlehem ga
  • Post Root Canal Instructions

Post Root Canal Instructions Bethlehem GA

When it comes to root canals, it’s essential to know the post root canal instructions. As follows, proper aftercare is critical for both pain management and infection prevention. If you’ve just had or are about to have one of the most common dental operations, it’s time to learn about appropriate root canal aftercare. Today on the blog,  our dentist 30620, Dr. Uyen Hoang, shares post root canal instructions. 

Why Do I Need a Root Canal?

Despite common belief, a root canal is a relatively straightforward surgery. In addition, it is used to treat teeth with pulp deterioration. As follows, a tooth can frequently be salvaged by removing the decay.

Dr. Hoang, the best dentist in Bethlehem GA, explains that the outer layer, known as enamel, is one of the most difficult substances in your body. Thus, the pulp is a complex network of neurons, blood vessels, and connective tissue found inside it. Importantly, the pulp is what maintains your teeth healthy. However, when it is damaged, you may suffer tooth discomfort.

When the pulp of a tooth is injured, it becomes infected fast. Anyone who has been through this understands how painful it is, and you may even be going through it right now.

What to Expect During a Root Canal

A root canal is a procedure that removes the pulp from the tooth before it is cemented. Because local anesthetic will be utilized, the operation will be quite painless.

Our Bethlehem GA dentistry explains that you’re more likely to become worked up and anxious than to be in severe pain throughout the operation. You’ll be done with our Loganville dental office in approximately an hour and a half.

Procedures for Aftercare of Root Canals

Your mouth is a sensitive area that is easily infected. The majority of germs that enter your body come through your mouth while you eat and drink. As follows, a root canal causes very little discomfort. This isn’t a surgery that will leave you in bed for a few days, like having your wisdom teeth out.

Instead, your dentist will most likely provide you a prescription such as ibuprofen. Even if you don’t feel like you’re in agony, take them as directed. Because the operation may produce some inflammation, it is important to manage not only the discomfort but also the swelling that will ensue.

Aftercare is split into three stages: immediately following the procedure, in the following days, and in the future. We worked with our friends at College Hill Dental Group, family dentist Easton PA, to put together the perfect post root canal guide. 

Immediately Following

The mouth will still be numb for at least a few hours following your operation. It’s critical that you don’t consume anything that requires chewing or drink anything hot during this period. If you can fill your prescription or do so before the surgery, now is a good time to start taking your pain medicine.

The Following Days

You’ll want to make sure you’re doing the following things throughout the next several days:

  • First, continue to take your medicine as directed.
  • Always consume softer meals.
  • Importantly, ensure that you chew on the side of your mouth that did not undergo the treatment.
  • As follows, brush your teeth with caution.

The discomfort should go away in a few days. In more extreme situations, however, you may need to come at least once more for the contaminated pulp to be completely removed.

The Near Future

Even if you are pain-free, don’t put off future checkups. In most situations, the filling utilized in a root canal is just temporary, and you’ll eventually require a crown. This is because the tooth was damaged during the operation. It’s very likely that a tooth, particularly if it’s badly diseased by the time you get there, may require more than one cleaning and will have been destroyed throughout the treatment.

Don’t ignore any kind of follow-up. Most of the time, simply getting back will be enough.

Contact Gentle Dental Group Today For Root Canal Therapy

We’re here for you! At Gentle Dental Group, we pride ourselves on offering gentle, compassionate dental services to our patients. If you are in pain, please contact our team immediately. We’d love to help you relieve your pain.

Deep Cleaning vs. Regular Cleaning

Deep Cleaning vs. Regular Cleaning
  • Deep Cleaning vs. Regular Cleaning

Deep Cleaning vs. Regular Cleaning

Teeth cleaning should be done on a regular basis for the sake of cleanliness and oral health. As follows, it keeps the teeth looking nice while also ensuring healthy and strong teeth. When teeth are not cleaned, they grow weaker and more vulnerable to infections. Additionally, our dentist 30620 explains this can also result in tooth loss. To minimize tooth loss, it is critical to treat cavities and keep periodontal disease at bay. While normal cleaning focuses on the gum line to scale and polish the outer surface of the teeth, deep cleaning entails eliminating bacteria colonies and tartar from the roots.

What is Deep Teeth Cleaning?

Dr. Uyen Hoang, the best dentist in Bethlehem GA, explains that sometimes teeth need a deep cleaning. As follows, this is a dental procedure that involves cleaning the teeth from the gum line down to the roots. Thus, it is usually suggested for individuals who have tartar buildup on the exterior and roots of their teeth, leading to bacterial infections of the gums. In addition, deep scaling is done beneath the gum line with a dental scaler to remove tartar (through manual scraping) from the teeth. It entails the use of an ultrasonic instrument to remove plaque from the surface of the teeth.

Additionally, our dentist office in Bethlehem GA notes that root planing is the process of repeatedly pressing the roots to eliminate rough areas that cause gum infections by trapping and retaining germs. Importantly, this procedure is essential for keeping gums clean and healthy and facilitating gum reattachment to teeth. If your gums are red and swollen, you may have an infection and require deep dental cleaning.

Regular Dental Cleaning vs. Deep Cleaning

The primary distinction between normal dentist teeth cleaning and deep dental cleaning is that the former is less thorough. Regular cleaning is performed to preserve the cleanliness of the teeth in order to avoid cavities and gum disease. The tartar is removed with a scaler since it has not yet infiltrated the gums. When tartar buildup gets excessive, it can only be eliminated by deep dental teeth cleaning.

A thorough cleaning of the teeth goes beyond the surface of the tooth to remove calculus and debris that has accumulated in the roots of the teeth. Unlike normal cleaning, the sessions are extremely rigorous and occasionally need more than one visit (which takes just a couple of hours.) The cleaning required is thorough, and the dentist must monitor the teeth and gums before declaring the procedure a success. Some patients with sensitive teeth or periodontal disease must be treated with caution, necessitating several sessions.

Root planning is only performed during thorough dental cleanings and not during routine cleanings. As a result, it is a key differentiator between the two kinds. To deter microorganisms, your Bethlehem GA dentist uses a special tool to clean deep into the pockets to guarantee that tartar and plaque are fully eliminated.

Signs You Need a Thorough Cleaning

Here are some of the causes and circumstances that necessitate a thorough dental cleaning.

  • If you have signs of gum disease or infection, such as redness and swelling of the gum line, bleeding when brushing, persistent bad breath, loosening of the teeth from the gums, and pus in the gum region.
  • Additionally, if you go to a hygienist and he or she advises thorough teeth cleaning.
  • If you have already suffered from gum disorders such as gingivitis and periodontitis.
  • Sometimes, when patients have neglected to see a dentist, they are required to get a deep cleaning to remove buildup. 
  • Lastly, OG Dental, Denver CO dentist, explains that if your gum pockets expand above 5 millimeters in-depth, you may be in danger of periodontal disease. Thus, this necessitates a deep dental cleaning.

Preliminary Discussion for Deep Cleaning Teeth Procedure

The dentist will engage the patient in a discussion to find out and document any changes to one’s dental history and if they are on any medication. Depending on the specialist’s assessment, he may prescribe additional procedures such as an X-ray for a more thorough inspection.

Scaling

If the dentist finds that the gum pockets are within the usual range of depth, he or she will physically scrape plaque and tartar off the tooth surface using an ultrasonic instrument.

Polishing

The dentist will polish the teeth using gritty toothpaste (of the patient’s choosing), followed by the use of an air polisher to smoothen the surface even more.

Flossing

Flossing can be done using string floss, dental picks, and small brushes that can reach between the teeth.

Fluoride Treatment

After that, the teeth will be washed with a mix of liquid fluoride and fluoride varnish to treat the teeth and remineralize the enamel.

Does a Deep Dental Cleaning Hurt?

While some patients, particularly those with deep sockets, may suffer pain, the discomfort is usually tolerable. Scaling and root planning may cause discomfort in the gums and teeth. Dentists employ a local anesthetic (such as a topical gel anesthetic) to numb your gum region as he performs the operation to avoid the discomfort and sting of the needle.

Contact Gentle Dental Group Today

Think you may need a deep cleaning? Contact Gentle Dental Group today. Our gentle dentistry would love to help you transform your dental health.

Celebrate Gum Care Month

Celebrate gum care month
  • Celebrate Gum Care Month

Celebrate Gum Care Month

Today we are happy to Celebrate National Gum Care Month! Our team at Gentle Dental Group wants to do our bit to teach our patients more about gum disease. Dr. Hoang, the best dentist in Bethlehem GA, says it’s extremely important for everyone to know how to battle gum disease and improve their dental health!

Why Celebrate Gum Care Month

The goal of National Gum Care Month is to draw attention to the very real problem of gum disease. Additionally, it is to promote awareness of methods to help you take better care of your gums. 

In turn, taking care of your gums helps avoid the discomfort of gingivitis and probable tooth loss. Your gums protect your teeth by covering the sensitive roots. However, if they are not properly cared for, they can potentially cause injury. Thus, this would put your teeth and health in danger of more serious issues.

Below, our Bethlehem GA dentist shares effective techniques to improve the health of your gums:

Floss Correctly

You may have heard that flossing is beneficial to your oral hygiene, but you may be wondering how to do it effectively. Flossing eliminates plaque and food particles from areas where a toothbrush cannot readily reach – beneath the gum line and between your teeth. Daily flossing is strongly advised since plaque buildup can lead to tooth damage and gum disease. 

Bacteria are drawn to these small particles as they degrade. Inflammation and even infection can arise when bacteria infect a single small area on or inside the gum line. While most individuals brush their teeth twice a day, flossing is a less popular activity.

Brush Your Teeth Twice A Day (Or Even Better, After Each Meal!) 

Ideally, it would be amazing for patients to brush their teeth after every meal. However, that is not normal for most people who work, have kids, and are on the go. So, it’s essential to make sure you are brushing your teeth for at least two minutes each morning and night. Our Loganville dental clinic suggests using a soft bristle brush at a 45-degree angle. 

Prioritize Gum Health

Several studies have connected dental health, especially gum health, to whole-body health.  Patients with gingivitis or severe periodontal disease are at a higher risk of developing heart disease, Alzheimer’s disease, or diabetes. Even if you don’t notice any symptoms, poor dental hygiene and plaque buildup put you at risk for gum disease.

The primary causes of gum disease include poor dental hygiene, which allows bacteria in plaque and calculus to stay on the teeth and infect the gums.

See Our Dentist Office in Bethlehem GA Twice a Year

Routine dental cleanings performed by a professional are essential for your gum health. Our professionals will remove tartar that has firmly adhered to the tooth surfaces above and below the gum line. This process also eliminates a sticky plaque, which helps to keep a developing colony of live germs at bay.

While the self-care activities outlined above can help keep your gums healthy and protect you from gingivitis, it is also necessary to have Dr. Hoang inspect your teeth and gums at least twice a year. Great dental health begins with strong dental habits and a lifetime commitment. 

Contact Gentle Dental Group Today

We’re here for you, Bethlehem! Contact our gentle family dentistry today. We’d love to work with you on your gum care and ensure a healthy smile for years to come. 

Signs You Need Wisdom Tooth Removal

Signs You Need Wisdom Tooth Removal
  • Signs You Need Wisdom Tooth Removal

Signs Your Wisdom Teeth Need To Be Removed

So, what is the purpose of wisdom teeth? Many scientists and scholars actually believe that wisdom teeth evolved as a response to consuming raw meats, vegetables, and roots. Either way, many people develop wisdom teeth, also known as your third set of molars. Unfortunately, our dentist 30620 explains that wisdom teeth can clutter the mouth, and many people need to get them removed.

The Signs You Need Your Wisdom Teeth Extracted

Sore mouth? Irritation? Headaches? There are many common signs that you need your wisdom teeth removed. Today on the blog, Dr. Hoang, the best dentist in Bethlehem GA, discusses signs your wisdom teeth need to be removed. 

Irritation and Pain

Wisdom teeth can cause aches and pains as they grow in. As follows, if you are in pain or discomfort, see us for an examination and x-rays. We can tell if the pain is caused by the wisdom teeth or by anything else. Importantly, extraction is not always the best option, as determined by your Bethlehem GA dentist. Thus, the pain may subside with time, and no extraction will be required.

Cavities

The placement of wisdom teeth can have a significant impact on cleaning surfaces where bacteria can lurk. Denver Highlands Dentist, Dr. O’Grady says they see this often in their office. First, he explains that, if the gums get irritated, spaces between the teeth can form. Thus, this allows germs to proliferate. Then, this will stimulate the formation of cavities, which will lead to infection.

Gum Inflammation

When wisdom teeth begin to emerge, they might cause a flap of gum tissue to form close to the tooth.  Then, this gum tissue has the ability to capture microscopic particles of food and microorganisms. Tissue around the teeth might become hard and irritated, making cleaning difficult. 

Eating Difficulties

If you suffer pain when eating, this could be a sign that your wisdom teeth need to be extracted. Food could become lodged between the gums and the tops of the teeth. This could lead to a slew of issues if you can’t get to the back of your mouth and clean thoroughly while brushing. Therefore, the easiest way to deal with this issue is to consult with a dentist to locate the correct things to solve it. However, if the problem cannot be resolved, an extraction may be the only option.

You Have A Cyst

Sometimes, a cyst may develop around your wisdom tooth. Next, a cyst is formed when a sac adjacent to the teeth fills with fluid. Importantly, it can harm bones, roots, and adjacent structures if left untreated. Additionally, if it grows extremely severe, it can develop into a tumor and necessitate additional surgery.

Teeth Are Becoming Crooked From Wisdom Teeth Growing In

If the wisdom teeth come in incorrectly, the other teeth may shift and move over. They may potentially cause damage to the other teeth.  Thus, extraction can keep other teeth from becoming damaged. Additionally, there are several reasons as to why wisdom teeth emerge crooked and sideways. Our jaws are supposed to be too small to accommodate a third molar, which then knocks against the others, forcing it to develop sideways. Finally, you should also consider removing wisdom teeth before starting orthodontic treatment to give misalignments more room to adjust.

Sinus Problems

Additionally, wisdom teeth can cause a number of sinus issues. Importantly, these issues emerge as teeth on the upper jaw grow in. Next,  teeth grow and roots form, they can push and rub against the sinuses, causing pressure to build up. Of course, though this is not a common occurrence, wisdom teeth can occasionally cause sinus pain, pressure, headaches, and congestion.

Contact Gentle Dental Group Today For Wisdom Teeth Extraction Services

If you suspect you may need a wisdom tooth extraction in Bethlehem GA, contact Gentle Dental Group today! Our team would love to assist you and relieve any pain you may be experiencing. Schedule a consultation here!