To ensure healthy teeth and gum’s, dentists recommend that you have dental exams every six months. During those dental exams you will have your teeth professionally cleaned, and any dental problems, such as cavities, will be treated. In addition to your semi-annual dental exams, you should be brushing your teeth at leas twice a day, and flossing after every meal. Flossing after meals remove the food and bacteria that can build up between your teeth and below the gum line.
Dentists in Oyster Bay NY will tell you that it is easier to fill a cavity while it is small, than to wait until the damage is more extensive. You may not realize it, but a small cavity may only take a few minutes to fill, while a larger cavity may require a root canal, or even extraction to take care of the damage. Should you require a root canal, your dentist will drill a hole into the cavity to remove the plaque and tooth decay. The nerve will be removed, and the tooth will be packed with a gutta-percha to prevent further damage to the tooth. In some cases your dentist will need to place a dental crown over the remaining portion of the tooth.
Tooth decay that is left untreated can lead to gum disease, which can lead to premature tooth loss. If you notice that your gums bleed during brushing and flossing, or your gums are swollen and red, you will need to see your dentist as soon as possible. Those are all early signs of gingivitis. Without proper treatment, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, which is one of the most serious forms of gum diseases. If you develop periodontitis, the Locust Valley Dental Group will be able to provide you with the proper treatment, which will include deep cleanings, and medicated mouth washes to stop the progression of the disease. Deep cleanings include the scraping the root to remove tartar buildup and decay, and planing to smooth the surface of the root.
With good oral hygiene practices, and routine dental exams, you can enjoy a lifetime of healthy gums and teeth. It is important that you tell your dentist about any dental problems that you might be experiencing, including pain, swelling or bleeding. Browse website for more information
