Regular visits should be a part of you and your family's schedules. With regular visits, you ensure that your teeth are maintained at the highest level of protection. We can provide you with professional cleanings, oral hygiene instruction, and so much more.
How much is good health worth? It's priceless!
Oral Hygiene and Care
We want to make sure that you not only have a beautiful smile, but a healthy one as well. Helping you care for your teeth is our primary goal. We can give you the best smile you can imagine but once you leave our office your oral health will be up to you. Aesthetic dentistry should be a choice, not a consequence. Here are some key things to remember before you visit us, after the visit and anytime you think about your teeth.
Caring for your teeth and gums
In the realm of Oral Hygiene there are four main areas to focus on:
Effective and Proper Brushing
It has been said time and time again, that the most effective means of oral health is brushing at least twice a day, but better yet is brushing after every meal. The actual purpose of brushing isn't only to make your teeth white, but to minimize bacteria, which leads to plaque. Plaque bacteria create acids when they interact with foods leading to cavities.
Daily Correct Flossing
Flossing should be done once a day. Done more frequently can cause damage and push the gums away from the tooth. The purpose of flossing is to get in between teeth and locations a toothbrush can't clean.Daily flossing is the best way to clean between the teeth and under the gum line removing plaque so it does not harden into tartar. Flossing not only helps clean these spaces, it disrupts plaque colonies from building up, preventing damage to gums, teeth and bone.
You and Dental X-Rays
Dental X-rays may reveal:
Are the dental x-ray safe?
Since we use technologically advanced digital x-rays, the amount of radiation exposure from a full mouth series of x-rays is equal to the amount a person receives in a single day from natural sourced and is less exposure than conventional x-rays.
Dental x-rays produce a low level of radiation that is considered safe by regulatory standard for safe practices. Dr. McPherson-Lewis takes all necessary precautions to limit the patient's exposure to radiation when taking x-rays. These precautions include using lead apron shield to protect the body and using modern, fast film the cuts done the exposure time for each x-ray.
How often should dental x-rays be taken?
The need for dental x-rays depends on each patient's individual dental health needs. Dr. McPherson-Lewis will recommend necessary x-rays based on the review of your medical and dental history, dental exam, signs and symptoms, age consideration and risk for disease. A full mouth series of dental x-rays is recommended for new patients. A full series is usually good for three to five years. Bitewing x-rays (x-rays of top and bottom teeth biting together) are taken at check-up visits and are recommended once or twice a year to detect new dental problems.
Sensitive Teeth
Sensitive teeth have many causes but the source of the discomfort is typically the underlying dentin being exposed. The exposure is a result of receding gums due to brushing too hard, cracks in a tooth or teeth, age, plaque and even some whitening products with peroxide or baking soda. Sensitivity can be reduced by:
Periodontal (Gum) Disease
What is Gum Disease?
Periodontal disease otherwise known as gum disease is an infection of the area surrounding the teeth. The infection comes from bacteria that exist within the mouth. The levels, condition of the teeth and gums and oral health practices all contribute to the prevention or cause of gum disease. There are two stages of gum disease: gingivitis and periodontitis.
Due to the relationship of periodontal disease and other systemic diseases, such as heart disease, diabetes, pre-term birth, and others: your dental team must use the latest in diagnostic technology. Testing not only for your oral health, but your health in general.
What is Gingivitis?
Gingivitis is an infection that occurs just in the gums, gingivitis is considered a milder form of gum disease than periodontitis. Gingivitis causes red swollen gums that bleed easily when teeth are cleaned or brushed. Most time gingivitis doesn't cause pain because the infection is in the gums and does not affect the sensitive areas of the teeth: most people don't believe treatment is necessary because there is no pain.
What is Periodontitis?
When general gum disease becomes more prominent, it is considered periodontitis. This change in degree is marked by the gums receding from the base of the teeth leaving the roots and fragile enamel exposed to bacteria. The teeth affected by periodontitis seem longer for this reason and further development of periodontitis can cause teeth to become loose or fall out. Severe cases may have issue with pus coming from gums, unabated bad breath, and a change in the way your teeth feel when the mouth is closed and / or extreme pain.
Contributing Factors to Gingivitis and Periodontitis:
Signs and Symptoms of Periodontal Disease:
Treatments
Dr. McPherson-Lewis and her Hygienists offer several avenues for addressing gingivitis and periodontitis that can reverse some of the damage, but early detection and proper oral hygiene is always best. Treatment can help but it should be understood that sometimes a life style change is necessary. We treat periodontitis with root planing and scaling, which removes plaque build-up from around the teeth above and below the gum line. Even surgery may be necessary in extreme cases.
Periodontal disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults and as stated, is caused by bacteria in plaque. Periodontal disease can be treated successfully if it is diagnosed early. So if you have bleeding gums, pain or have been told you are "long in the teeth" it may be time to have an exam to determine where your oral health is currently. Regular cleaning habits and dental visits are preventative measures anyone can take to help prevent this disease.
How much is good health worth? It's priceless!
- Visit a Professional Dentist at least twice a year.
- Get professional cleanings according to your dentist/hygienist recommendations.
- Anytime you have pain, excessive oral sensitivity, bleeding or swollen gums see your dentist immediately.
Oral Hygiene and Care
We want to make sure that you not only have a beautiful smile, but a healthy one as well. Helping you care for your teeth is our primary goal. We can give you the best smile you can imagine but once you leave our office your oral health will be up to you. Aesthetic dentistry should be a choice, not a consequence. Here are some key things to remember before you visit us, after the visit and anytime you think about your teeth.
Caring for your teeth and gums
In the realm of Oral Hygiene there are four main areas to focus on:
- Effective and Proper Brushing
- Daily Correct Flossing
- You and Dental X-rays
- Sensitive Teeth
Effective and Proper Brushing
It has been said time and time again, that the most effective means of oral health is brushing at least twice a day, but better yet is brushing after every meal. The actual purpose of brushing isn't only to make your teeth white, but to minimize bacteria, which leads to plaque. Plaque bacteria create acids when they interact with foods leading to cavities.
- Use a pea-sized amount of toothpaste. Preferably one with fluoride.
- Press firmly, maintaining a circular motion along the gum line.
- Allow the bristles to reach in between teeth.
- Brush the backs of your teeth and tongue as well.
- Make sure to brush at least two to three minutes.
- Replace your toothbrush every 3 to 4 months.
- Electric toothbrushes are also recommended. They are easy to use and can remove plaque efficiently. Simply place the bristles of the electric brush on your gums and teeth and allow the brush to do its job, several teeth at a time.
Daily Correct Flossing
Flossing should be done once a day. Done more frequently can cause damage and push the gums away from the tooth. The purpose of flossing is to get in between teeth and locations a toothbrush can't clean.Daily flossing is the best way to clean between the teeth and under the gum line removing plaque so it does not harden into tartar. Flossing not only helps clean these spaces, it disrupts plaque colonies from building up, preventing damage to gums, teeth and bone.
- Take 12-16 inches (30-40cm) of dental floss and wrap it around your middle fingers, leaving about 2 inches (5cm) of floss between hands.
- Using your thumbs and forefingers to guide the floss, gently insert the floss between teeth using a sawing motion.
- Curve the floss into a "C" shape around each tooth and under the gum line. Gently move the floss up and down, cleaning the side of each tooth.
You and Dental X-Rays
Dental X-rays may reveal:
- Abscessed or cysts
- Bone loss
- Cancerous and non-cancerous tumors
- Decay between the teeth
- Developmental abnormalities
- Poor tooth and root positions
- Problems inside a tooth or below the gum line.
Are the dental x-ray safe?
Since we use technologically advanced digital x-rays, the amount of radiation exposure from a full mouth series of x-rays is equal to the amount a person receives in a single day from natural sourced and is less exposure than conventional x-rays.
Dental x-rays produce a low level of radiation that is considered safe by regulatory standard for safe practices. Dr. McPherson-Lewis takes all necessary precautions to limit the patient's exposure to radiation when taking x-rays. These precautions include using lead apron shield to protect the body and using modern, fast film the cuts done the exposure time for each x-ray.
How often should dental x-rays be taken?
The need for dental x-rays depends on each patient's individual dental health needs. Dr. McPherson-Lewis will recommend necessary x-rays based on the review of your medical and dental history, dental exam, signs and symptoms, age consideration and risk for disease. A full mouth series of dental x-rays is recommended for new patients. A full series is usually good for three to five years. Bitewing x-rays (x-rays of top and bottom teeth biting together) are taken at check-up visits and are recommended once or twice a year to detect new dental problems.
Sensitive Teeth
Sensitive teeth have many causes but the source of the discomfort is typically the underlying dentin being exposed. The exposure is a result of receding gums due to brushing too hard, cracks in a tooth or teeth, age, plaque and even some whitening products with peroxide or baking soda. Sensitivity can be reduced by:
- Using soft bristle toothbrushes or being gentle with your teeth.
- Specially formulated desensitizing toothpaste.
- Reduce the frequency of eating acidic foods.
- Regular visits to the dentist, brushing correctly and regularly, and flossing all help to reduce sensitivity.
Periodontal (Gum) Disease
What is Gum Disease?
Periodontal disease otherwise known as gum disease is an infection of the area surrounding the teeth. The infection comes from bacteria that exist within the mouth. The levels, condition of the teeth and gums and oral health practices all contribute to the prevention or cause of gum disease. There are two stages of gum disease: gingivitis and periodontitis.
Due to the relationship of periodontal disease and other systemic diseases, such as heart disease, diabetes, pre-term birth, and others: your dental team must use the latest in diagnostic technology. Testing not only for your oral health, but your health in general.
What is Gingivitis?
Gingivitis is an infection that occurs just in the gums, gingivitis is considered a milder form of gum disease than periodontitis. Gingivitis causes red swollen gums that bleed easily when teeth are cleaned or brushed. Most time gingivitis doesn't cause pain because the infection is in the gums and does not affect the sensitive areas of the teeth: most people don't believe treatment is necessary because there is no pain.
What is Periodontitis?
When general gum disease becomes more prominent, it is considered periodontitis. This change in degree is marked by the gums receding from the base of the teeth leaving the roots and fragile enamel exposed to bacteria. The teeth affected by periodontitis seem longer for this reason and further development of periodontitis can cause teeth to become loose or fall out. Severe cases may have issue with pus coming from gums, unabated bad breath, and a change in the way your teeth feel when the mouth is closed and / or extreme pain.
Contributing Factors to Gingivitis and Periodontitis:
- Bad oral hygiene practices
- Smoking, chewing tobacco and other habits that introduce foreign bacteria.
- Family history
- Habits and health conditions that lower your immune system
- For example- stress levels, poor diet, diabetes, AIDS, leukemia and other types of cancers.
Signs and Symptoms of Periodontal Disease:
- Red and puffy gums- gums should never be red or swollen
- Bleeding gums- gums should never bleed, even when you brush vigorously or use dental floss.
- Persistent bad breath- caused by bacteria in the mouth.
- New spacing between teeth– caused by bone loss
- Loose teeth- also caused by bone loss or weakened periodontal fibers (fibers are what support the tooth to the bone)
- Pus around the teeth and gums- sign that there is an infection present
- Receding gums- loss of gum around a tooth.
- >Tenderness or discomfort- plaque, calculus and bacteria irritate the gums and teeth.
Treatments
Dr. McPherson-Lewis and her Hygienists offer several avenues for addressing gingivitis and periodontitis that can reverse some of the damage, but early detection and proper oral hygiene is always best. Treatment can help but it should be understood that sometimes a life style change is necessary. We treat periodontitis with root planing and scaling, which removes plaque build-up from around the teeth above and below the gum line. Even surgery may be necessary in extreme cases.
Periodontal disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults and as stated, is caused by bacteria in plaque. Periodontal disease can be treated successfully if it is diagnosed early. So if you have bleeding gums, pain or have been told you are "long in the teeth" it may be time to have an exam to determine where your oral health is currently. Regular cleaning habits and dental visits are preventative measures anyone can take to help prevent this disease.