Category: Gum Disease

Gum Disease and Heart Health

The Connection Between Gum Disease and Heart Health

Did you know that the health of your gums can have a significant impact on your heart health? It’s true – research has shown that individuals with gum disease are more likely to develop cardiovascular disease than those with healthy gums. As a dental practice committed to our patients’ overall health and well-being, we at College Hill Dental Group think it’s important to discuss the connection between gum disease and heart health.

Understanding the Connection

Research suggests that gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, increases inflammation throughout the body, including the arteries and blood vessels. This inflammation can lead to the buildup of plaque, narrow the arteries, and increase the risk of heart attack and stroke. Additionally, the harmful bacteria that cause gum disease can travel through the bloodstream and infect the heart and other organs.

Signs and Symptoms

Gum disease typically begins with mild gingivitis, characterized by red, swollen, and bleeding gums. If left untreated, it can progress to more severe periodontitis, causing receding gums, loose teeth, and even tooth loss. It’s crucial to recognize the signs of gum disease, such as bad breath, gum recession, and tooth sensitivity, and visit your dentist at College Hill Dental Group regularly for early detection and treatment.

Prevention and Treatment

The good news is that gum disease is preventable and treatable. Maintaining good oral hygiene habits, including brushing twice daily, flossing daily, avoiding tobacco products, and visiting our dentist every six months, can help prevent gum disease. However, if you already have gum disease, your dentist at College Hill Dental Group may recommend scaling and root planing, a deep cleaning procedure that removes tartar and bacteria from below the gum line.

Maintaining Overall Wellness

It is essential to take preventative measures, such as regular exercise, a healthy diet, stress management techniques, and avoiding smoking and excess alcohol consumption, to reduce your risk of developing cardiovascular disease.

Our Commitment to You

At College Hill Dental Group, we understand the critical link between gum disease and heart health and are committed to providing our patients with comprehensive dental care that prioritizes both oral and overall wellness. Our team of experienced dental professionals uses the latest technology and techniques to prevent, treat, and manage gum disease and promote optimal heart health. We encourage you to schedule your next dental check-up with us and discuss any concerns or questions you may have about your oral and general health.

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Gum disease is more than just a dental issue – it can have serious implications for your heart health and overall well-being. By understanding the connection between gum disease and cardiovascular disease and taking preventative measures to maintain optimal oral and general health, you can reduce your risk of developing serious health conditions. At College Hill Dental Group, we are committed to your health and look forward to partnering with you on your journey to optimal health and wellness.

The Effects of Aging on Gum Health

Aging is a natural process that we all go through, and it comes with various changes in our bodies and health. One area that tends to get overlooked when it comes to aging is oral health, specifically gum health. Gum health is an essential aspect of our overall oral health, and as we age, our gums become more vulnerable to infections and diseases.

Gum Recession

One of the most noticeable effects of aging on gum health is gum recession. As we age, our gums tend to recede, exposing the root of the teeth. Gum recession can lead to tooth sensitivity and increase the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. It is essential to maintain a good oral hygiene routine and visit your dentist at College Hill Dental regularly to detect any signs of gum recession early.

Gum Disease

Gum disease is a prevalent condition that can affect people of all ages, but it becomes more prevalent as we age. Gum disease is caused by bacteria that accumulate in the mouth, leading to inflammation and damage to the gums.

Medications

As we age, we tend to take more medications to manage various health conditions, and some of these medications can impact our gum health. Some medications cause dry mouth, which reduces saliva production and increases the risk of gum disease. A dry mouth can also lead to bad breath and difficulty chewing and swallowing food.

Nutritional Deficiencies

Nutritional deficiencies can also impact gum health. As we age, our bodies require more nutrients to function well, and when we don’t get enough of these nutrients, our gum health can suffer. A diet rich in fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats can help keep your gums healthy and reduce the risk of gum disease.

Regular Dental Visits

Regular dental visits are critical to maintaining good gum health as you age. Your dentist at College Hill Dental can detect any signs of gum disease early and provide appropriate treatment before the condition progresses. We can also provide guidance on how to maintain good oral hygiene at home, which is essential in preventing gum disease.

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Maintaining good gum health as you age is essential to your overall oral health and well-being. Gum recession, gum disease, medications, nutritional deficiencies, and regular dental visits are all critical factors that can impact your gum health. By paying attention to your gum health and taking the necessary steps, such as maintaining a good oral hygiene routine, eating a healthy diet, and visiting your dentist regularly, you can keep your gums healthy and reduce the risk of gum disease. At College Hill Dental, we are committed to helping our patients maintain good oral health throughout their lives. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and learn more about how we can help you maintain healthy gums as you age.

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Treating Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease, also known as disease, is the leading cause of adult tooth loss. It can range from minor gum inflammation to a more serious disease that causes extensive damage to the soft tissue and bone that support the teeth. In this article, Dr. Moghadam, a dentist in Easton, PA, discusses how to go about treating periodontal disease.

What is Periodontal Disease?

Periodontitis means “inflammation around the tooth.” It is the most advanced stage of periodontal disease. This disease affects millions of Americans, so you’re not alone. Periodontitis causes your gums to pull away from the teeth, forming infected pockets. As a result, patients will experience bone loss, tooth loss, or dead teeth. While bacterial infection is at the root of all forms of periodontal disease, there are a number of other factors that can lead to periodontal disease. To name a few, risk factors include smoking, diabetes, certain medications, and genetic susceptibility.

Signs of Periodontal Disease

There are several signs of periodontal disease. You’ll be able to tell if you are developing this dental problem in the earlier stages of gum disease. However, you’ll know that you’re in the last stage if you have the following signs:

Swollen gums, bright red or purplish gums
Gums that bleed easily
Pain while chewing
New spaces developing between your teeth
Bad breath and bad taste in your mouth
Loose teeth

Consult your emergency dentist if you suspect you have periodontitis. It is important that you seek treatment immediately.

Dental Implants

If you have periodontal disease, your dentist will likely recommend dental implants to restore your smile. Dental implants may help restore your smile and oral health if you have missing or extremely loose teeth as a result of periodontal disease.

According to the American Dental Association, the development and use of dental implants are some of the most significant advances in dentistry. They not only are customized in size, color, and fit to best replicate your natural teeth, but they also work wonders beneath the gum line.

Our friend, Dr. Kristina Neda, who offers dental implants in Georgetown, KY, says that dental implants do not increase the risk of gum disease, tooth decay, or root canal problems. Furthermore, because implants are made of titanium and other biocompatible materials, they have a high success rate. Those interested in dental implants should see Dr. Moghadam for a consultation. Good candidates must have a good jaw bone foundation. Another option would be dentures. Book an appointment to see which option is best for your smile.

Contact Dentist in Easton, PA

When it comes to your smile, our team wants only the best for you. If you’re facing periodontal disease, it’s important to start periodontal therapy right away. At College Hill Dental Group, we are a judgment-free office. So, give us a call today to schedule your appointment with our dentists!

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Must-Knows About Gum Disease

Gum disease is a very common dental problem in the United States. This infection affects the tooth and its gums. You may also know gum disease as gingivitis or periodontitis. In this article, Dr. Dave, a dentist in Easton, PA, discusses some must-knows about gum disease.

Gingivitis vs. Periodontitis

So, is there a difference between gingivitis and periodontitis? For starters, gingivitis develops prior to periodontitis. It normally refers to gum inflammation, whereas periodontitis is gum disease with tissue, bone, or both death.

Gingivitis occurs when bacterial plaque accumulates on the tooth’s surface, causing the gums to turn red and inflamed. One of the first signs of gingivitis is bleeding after brushing. The gums are inflamed and irritated, but the teeth are not yet loose. There is no permanent damage to the bone or underlying tissue at this stage of gum disease. Gingivitis is likely to progress to periodontitis if left untreated, says Dr. Dave Moghadam.

Periodontitis occurs when the gums and bone pull away from the teeth, resulting in large pockets. Debris accumulates in the spaces between the gums and the teeth, infecting the area.

When plaque extends below the gum line into the pockets, the immune system kills bacteria. Because of the toxins released by the bacteria, the bone and connective tissue that hold the tooth begin to deteriorate. Teeth become brittle and can fall out.

Symptoms

The teeth become longer as the gums recede. Gaps between the teeth are also possible.
gums that are inflamed or swollen, as well as recurring swelling in the gums bright red, often purple gums
pain when the gums are touched receding gums that cause the teeth to appear longer extra spaces appearing between the teeth
pus in the space between the teeth and the gums
Bleeding while brushing or flossing teeth, a metallic taste in the mouth, halitosis (bad breath), loose teeth
Since the teeth do not match as well as they used to, the individual can complain that their “bite” feels different.

Causes of Gum Disease

Gum disease is a direct result of poor oral hygiene. The built-up dental plaque deteriorates the enamel on your teeth. Once it hardens, it turns into tartar, also known as calculus. Our friend, Dr. Ryan Helgerson, a dentist in Grand Junction, CO, agrees that tartar is more difficult to remove than plaque and can only be removed by your dentist. Plaque can damage teeth and surrounding tissue gradually and slowly. If gingivitis is not treated, pockets between the teeth and gums may form. Bacteria accumulate in these pockets, causing serious dental problems

Bacterial toxins, in conjunction with the immune system’s response to infection, begin damaging the bone and connective tissue that keep teeth in place. The teeth will eventually become loose and can fall out. A fully interactive 3D model of periodontal disease is shown below. To learn more about periodontal disease, use your mouse pad or touchscreen to explore the model.

Risk Factors of Gum Disease

Gum disease is more likely to occur in people experiencing the following:

Smokers. Daily smokers are more likely to develop gum disease. Smoking also reduces the effectiveness of therapy. Smokers account for 90% of cases that do not respond to treatment.
Hormones. Hormonal changes arise during puberty, pregnancy, and menopause. These modifications increase the likelihood of contracting gum disease.
Diabetics. People with diabetes have a higher prevalence of gum disease than people of the same age.
Aids. Gum disease is more common in AIDS patients.
Cancer. and certain cancer therapies may increase the likelihood of gum disease.
Medication. Antihypertensive drugs or vasodilating agents (which relax and dilate blood vessels), immunotherapy drugs, and medicines that suppress saliva may also raise the risk of gum disease.
Genetics. Certain individuals are predisposed to gum disease due to inherited characteristics.

Diagnosing Gum Disease

Now that we’ve discussed the must-knows about gum disease, you have a better understanding of the severity of the problem. If you’re experiencing any of the above signs, contact your emergency dentist in Easton, PA. Gum disease and periodontitis can be detrimental to your oral health. Dr. Dave will be happy to examine your smile. Call College Hill Dental Group today to schedule a full-mouth evaluation.

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Signs You Need a Tooth Extraction

Many people visit their dentist in Easton, PA, for a tooth extraction. Why? Well, there are several reasons why your tooth isn’t worth saving. Tooth extractions are typically the last resort at College Hill Dental Group. Below, Dr. Moghadam explores signs you need a tooth extraction.

Tooth Pain

Tooth pain doesn’t necessarily mean tooth extraction. However, tooth extraction may be necessary if you have tried everything to eliminate the tooth pain and it hasn’t worked.

For example:

Tooth pain post filling, root canal, or crown.
Stubborn tooth Infection
Chronic tooth pain

Crowding

Tooth crowding can cause dental chaos. When crowding occurs, it can be detrimental to the look and feel of your smile. Many patients who face crowding will undergo a tooth extraction. In some cases, the patient’s baby teeth never fall out, so they must get a tooth extraction. If you choose not to fix your overcrowded teeth, you could develop the following problems:

Tooth decay
Gum disease
Pain or discomfort
Difficulty chewing
Misaligned Teeth

Gum Disease

Inadequate oral health care will lead to gum disease or periodontal disease. This affects both your gums and teeth. Additionally, gum disease affects about 50% of adults in the United States. Bacteria will eat away from the bones that hold your teeth, and eventually, your teeth can begin to decay, making everyday tasks difficult. Bacterial infection can also spread from tooth to tooth. If gum disease is left untreated, you’ll end up with a tooth infection or a “dead tooth.”

Your dentist can suggest removal of your teeth if:

The tooth has been abscessed and contaminated
The tooth is loose and is not protected
The infection spreads to bones, other teeth, or soft tissues.

Routine cases of gum disease usually do not require dental extraction says our friend Dr. Kacos, an endodontist in Shreveport, LA. It is only when the infection or tooth decay becomes very severe that tooth removal may be necessary to avoid the spread of the infection and to protect other teeth.

Impacted Wisdom Teeth

One of the most common signs you need a tooth extraction is impacted wisdom teeth. Wisdom teeth become impacted when there’s not enough room in your mouth for the tooth to develop properly. Impacted wisdom teeth can be dangerous because they not only cause pain but also can cause your permanent teeth to shift.

Broken or Chipped Tooth

Accidents and injuries happen all the time. If your teeth are affected, then contact an emergency dentist in Easton, PA. Our dentists will do everything we can to save your tooth. In the event that your permanent tooth must come out, we will work with you to determine the best restorative dentistry option, whether that be dental implants or dentures.

Contact a Dental Office in Easton, PA

Everyone’s smile is unique, which means you’ll need to visit your dentist in Easton, PA, to determine the best course of action. College Hill Dental Group is happily accepting new patients. We also leave room for emergency dental appointments. Contact us today to learn how we can better serve you.

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Stages of Gum Disease

February is also Gum Disease Awareness Month! To celebrate, our Easton PA dentists are exploring the different stages of gum disease. If you believe you’re at any of these stages of gum disease, please contact our dental office immediately.

Gum Disease

There are three stages of gum disease. They range from moderate to extreme depending on the severity of the tooth infection. These three stages are considered to be gingivitis, periodontitis, and advanced periodontitis. Read the following to learn more about gum disease and how it affects your oral health.

Gingivitis

You’ve probably heard of gingivitis, the first stage of gum disease. Most people experience gingivitis at one point in their lives. This stage of gum disease is a mild tooth infection. In contrast to the more serious stages of gum disease, gingivitis is the least damaging since it does not affect the bone. Dr. Moghadam says that immediate professional care can, in fact, reverse the infection, bringing you to a fast recovery.

Many people don’t know they have gingivitis because the symptoms are subtle. The symptoms of gingivitis include sensitive, swollen, red, and bleeding gums. Other implications that you might have for gingivitis include the occasional bad breath, plaque buildup, and apparent gaps between gums and teeth. Dr. Ben Kacos, an endodontist in Shreveport, LA, points out that these holes are created as a result of disruption to the periodontal fibers known to connect the gums to the teeth.

Moderate Periodontitis

Moderate periodontitis is the second stage of gum disease. This stage happens when gingivitis progresses due to a lack of treatment. Similar to gingivitis, your gums and teeth will be tender, red, sore, and bleeding. Dentists in Easton, PA, agree that bad breath is usually permanent at this stage.

For periodontitis, the condition is more advanced, which means the bone loss is now likely. This happens as a result of the development of periodontal pockets, which remove the teeth and establish a hub for infection. The infected gums cause the teeth to become brittle and loosen. However, there is still time to reverse the harm caused by moderate periodontitis. If you are at this stage of gum disease, please visit College Hill Dental Group for periodontal treatment in Easton, PA.

Advanced Periodontitis

Advanced periodontitis is the last and third-degree of gum disease. It is perhaps the most serious stage, causing tooth decay and tooth loss. Once you’ve reached this stage of gum disease, there is no going back. Unfortunately, advanced periodontitis is permanent. Signs of advanced periodontitis include swelling around the root of the tooth, a defective bite, and pus from the gums.

The magnitude of this stage means that periodontal pockets have now increased in size, deepening and providing more space for bacteria to flourish. As a result, this infection causes considerable damage to the bone and causes loss of teeth and decay. Your dentists may need to extract your teeth and restore them with dental implants or dentures.

Visit College Hill Dental Group

If you’re at any stage of gum disease, please contact College Hill Dental Group immediately. Our team of experienced professionals will do everything possible to save your teeth and restore your smile to its original glory. We offer different dental savings plans to make our services affordable. If you have any questions at all, please give us a call. We look forward to seeing you soon!

Gum Disease

Gingivitis

Moderate Periodontitis

Advanced Periodontitis

So, the magnitude of this stage means that periodontal pockets have now increased in size, deepening and providing more space for bacteria to flourish. As a result, this infection causes considerable damage to the bone and causes loss of teeth and decay. Furthermore, your dentists may need to extract your teeth and restore them with dental implants or dentures.

Visit College Hill Dental Group

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Celebrating Children’s Oral Health Month

National Children’s Oral Health Month is all February long! As a parent, you know how important it is to establish good habits at a young age. Our oral health routine is the same way. This month, Dr. Moghadam and Dr. Walbridge are sharing some ways you and your family can improve your kid’s oral health.

Baby’s First Tooth + Dental Visit

New parents often ask us, “When should my child start seeing the dentist?” Well, it’s never too soon to start working on your oral health! Many family dentists in Easton, PA, agree that parents should bring their child to the dentist before their first tooth or the first birthday arrives. During their exam, parents will be able to ask any questions and introduce their little one to our team. When the infant continues to die, the doctor will be able to track their growth and take protective steps to fix any issues with the baby’s teeth.

Protect the Baby Teeth!

Although it doesn’t seem like it, baby teeth are very important to preserving space for adult teeth. You can expect your child’s baby teeth to stick around for 8-10 years. Teeth are important because they help us speak, chew, and laugh. Baby teeth can also show the overall consistency of the child’s wellbeing. Untreated tooth decay can lead tooth infections, causing more problems later on.

Although everyday brushing is a vital part of any child’s oral hygiene regimen, bacteria that cause tooth decay can also remain between teeth where the toothbrush cannot reach. So, you’ll need to help your kids floss daily.

Baby bottle tooth decay is a dental problem that puts your baby’s oral health at risk. This happens as your child drinks the sugary liquid, and the bacteria in the mouth absorb the sugar and create the acid. This acid attacks the enamel on their teeth can cause tooth decay after continued exposure. Our friends at Kissing Camels Family Dentistry, a family dentist in Colorado Springs, CO, points out that liquids that lead to baby bottle tooth decay include milk, formula, fruit juice, soda, and every other sweetened drink. If your child wants to sleep with a bottle, we recommend consulting with your dentist.

Tooth Decay in Kids

You may be surprised to learn that the ADA says that more than 40% of children have tooth decay before they enter kindergarten. Luckily, tooth decay is preventable. If you have any questions about your child’s oral health, contact Dr. Moghadam at College Hill Dental Group.

Tips to Keep The Child’s Oral Wellbeing

Our doctors are proud to serve patients in those critical years of early childhood. As family dentists, we have experience helping patients of ages. We recommend the following oral health tips to start your little ones on their path to a healthier smile.

Schedule a checkup with your Easton PA dentist. If your child has seen a dentist for more than six months, make an appointment as soon as possible.
Check your baby’s gums every day until the teeth continue to carefully wipe a wet washcloth over the gums to remove harmful bacteria after each meal.
Start brushing as soon as your little one gets their first tooth.
Brush twice a day for a minimum of two minutes. Children 2-6 years of age should use a pea-sized volume of fluoride toothpaste. Often supervise children less than six years of age when cleaning since they are more likely to ingest toothpaste.
Start flossing as they get more teeth in.
Follow a nutritious diet. Avoid sugary drinks and snacks!
Don’t forget to hydrate!
Replace your child’s toothbrush every three months or when the bristles begin to fray.

National Children’s Oral Health Month should be celebrated every day! If you or your little one is in need of dental services in Easton, PA, contact us today! We work with patients of ages and are happy to meet your little one. We hope to see you very soon.

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How to Treat Swollen Gums

There can be any number of reasons for experiencing swelling in your gums. There may be other accompanying symptoms, including bleeding from the gums. You may not feel pain from the swelling in your gums, but it might lead you to feel enough discomfort that you reach out to your emergency dentist in Easton, PA.

At our Easton, PA dental practice, we offer treatments to help address your swollen gums. It is important, however, to first identify the cause of your swollen gums.

Calcified Plaque and Tartar

The majority of swelling in the gums can be attributed to plaque on the teeth and gums. This white filmy material that accumulates on the surface of teeth and along the gum lines is responsible for the formation of cavities. It is also responsible for infections in the gums. The plaque that accumulates along the gum lines begins to form in pockets along the gums. Once the plaque is in these pockets, it cannot be effectively removed with brushing and flossing alone. This can result in an immune response by the body, which can result in inflammation in the gums.

The plaque will calcify into tartar, which can be removed only during the professional cleaning offered by your dental hygienist at College Hill Dental Group.

Allergic Irritation

It is possible to experience an allergic reaction to some of the ingredients that can be found in the foods you enjoy. Toothpaste and medications you take may also contain ingredients that result in swelling in your gums. Another concern is that those allergic to certain metals may struggle with dental restorations made from metals.

If you do not have a sensitivity to metals or have not had recent restoration work done, a simple elimination diet can help to identify the cause of the inflammation.

Trapped Food Debris

Even with good oral hygiene habits that include brushing and flossing after every meal, it is possible for certain types of foods to get stuck between teeth or under the gums. Popcorn is one of the foods responsible for causing concerns with the gum line, even in situations where the gums are otherwise completely healthy. In just a day or two, you’ll experience discomfort and swelling in the gums. This will often continue until the popcorn piece is removed by your family dentist in Easton, PA. It is also possible that the kernel can be pushed out by the swelling naturally.

Younger patients may struggle to effectively brush and floss, which can lead to food debris being trapped between their teeth and gums. Visit with your kids’ dentist in Easton, PA, to get a professional cleaning and a brushing and flossing demonstration.

Burning your mouth on foods like pizza, nachos, or coffee can create a temporary area of trauma in the mouth. These usually only last 10-14 days and are directly related to the heat of the food on your gum tissue.

Periodontal Disease

Gum disease is very common. Whether you have the earliest stages known as gingivitis or a more advanced stage, treating your gum disease as soon as is possible is important. Gum disease can quickly advance and lead to inflammation and widespread infection. This could lead you to need extensive dental care, says Dr. Moghadam.

Treatments for Swollen Gums

Other concerns that could be responsible for your swollen gums could include concerns with dentures or other dental restorations. Misaligned teeth can also lead to discomfort and swelling, as can an abscess. Knowing the reason for the swelling is imperative if the right treatment plan is to be offered.

The good news is that swollen gums can be treated quite effectively. A visit with our 18042 dentists is the best first step. At home, treatments should include brushing and flossing, along with the use of a good alcohol-free mouthwash.

Our friend Dr. Hoang, a Bethlehem, GA dentist, says changes to your diet can also prove beneficial. Avoid popcorn and other foods that can potentially irritate your gums.

So, if you’re in need of an emergency dentist in Easton, PA, you can count on Dr. Dave Moghadam to get you out of pain. Contact College Hill Dental Group to schedule an appointment.

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National Brush Day

Happy National Brush Day from Your Easton, PA Dentists

National Brush Day is observed each year on the 1st day of November, the day right after Halloween. Our patients will learn this is one of our favorite holidays to recognize. This spooky day is known for traditionally being the day where the most candy is consumed by children and adults alike. National Brush Day started in 2012 to bring awareness to both children and parents about just how poor dental health can take a serious toll on their overall health.

At our Easton, PA dental practice, we love to see our patients with a healthy smile. National Brush Day serves as a great opportunity to schedule the annual checkup and professional dental cleaning for every member of the family. So, we’ve gathered these brushing tips to help keep every member of the family smiling beautifully.

Just Two Minutes, Twice a Day

Teeth should be brushed in the morning and in the evening before bed. It is important to brush teeth for a full two minutes. Any less is generally not effective enough to remove the plaque and food debris on and between the teeth. At College Hill Dental Group, we recommend using a timer to track the two minutes. Additionally, try playing fun songs about tooth brushing to encourage children to stick with those two minutes.

Your Brushing Technique is Important

So, are you using the right technique to brush your teeth? Believe it or not, many of us are not.

Hold the soft-bristled toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to your gums.
Using gentle and short strokes, move the brush back and forth.
Brush all surfaces of the teeth, including the inner, outer, and chewing surfaces.
Tilt the toothbrush vertically and use up and down strokes to clean the inside areas of teeth.
Also, be sure to brush your tongue as it can accumulate bacteria that contribute to bad breath.

Don’t forget that your home oral hygiene routine is just one part of your dental wellness. You will need to floss, use mouthwash, ensure your diet is balanced, stay hydrated, and of course, visit with your dentist every six months.

Selecting a New Toothbrush

What better day of the year to remind you that it is important to get a new toothbrush every few months. As your Easton, PA family dentist, we recommend that you select a soft-bristled toothbrush for every member of the family. Furthemore, children’s toothbrushes should be ultra-soft bristled and should be the right size for their mouths.

Ideally, Dr. Moghadam says you should replace your toothbrush every three months. Some prefer to wait to replace their brushes after their six-month checkup or professional cleaning. As your 18042 dentists, we do suggest that you replace your new toothbrush before the bristles start to show signs of wear. Our friends at Digital Doc, the #1 digital dental sensor provider, agrees that a damaged toothbrush is not going to be very effective at cleaning your teeth.

It is important to take care of dental concerns when they first become recognizable. The longer your dental problems go without being treated, the more likely you’ll end up visiting an emergency dentist in Easton, PA. So, schedule checkups and professional cleanings for the whole family with College Hill Dental Group today!

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How to Prevent Gum Disease

Periodontal or gum disease refers to an infection of the tissues which hold your teeth in place. In most cases, gum disease results from poor oral hygiene (not brushing or flossing regularly). Over time, built-up plaque hardens into calculus on and around your teeth and gums. When periodontal disease advances, it can result in sore, bleeding gums, and pain while you chew. If the progression of the disease isn’t treated by your dentist in Easton, PA, tooth loss can eventually occur.

Causes of Gum Disease

You probably already know that your mouth is full of bacteria. This bacteria, in combination with other materials, such as food particles and mucus, constantly form a sticky substance called plaque. Plaque is colorless, and when left long enough, it hardens into tartar.

No amount of brushing or flossing can help remover tartar. You’ll need to see a professional in order to remove it. When visiting College Hill Dental Group for a dental cleaning, your dental hygienist will scrape away all the plaque and tartar that is built up.

Dr. Cody Boals, a Colorado Springs dentist, adds that there are several risk factors that can play a part in developing gum disease. These include genetics, smoking, diabetes, hormonal changes in females, medications that cause dry mouth, and some illnesses, such as AIDS and their medications.

Symptoms of Gum Disease

Periodontal (gum) disease triggers a number of symptoms, including the following:

Persistent bad breath
Swollen or red gums
Bleeding or tender gums
Pain when you chew
Sensitive teeth
Loose teeth
Teeth appear longer due to gum recession

Diagnosis of Gum Disease

When you visit College Hill Dental Group, your hygienist or dentist in Easton, PA, will:

Check your gums for any signs of inflammation
Use a probe (a tiny ruler) to measure the gingival pockets (the gaps between your teeth and gums). In a healthy person, the gingival pockets are usually no wider than 3mm, so any pockets that exceed this size will be regarded as indicators of possible gum disease.
Inquire about your medical history. The intention here is to establish whether there are any risk factors or conditions that could pave the way for periodontal disease to develop.
Take x-rays to find out whether any bone loss has occurred.
Recommend periodontal therapy. These are specialists who diagnose and treat periodontal disease. The periodontist often has treatment methods that may not be available at your general dentist’s.

Treatment Options for Gum Disease

When gum disease is caught early, your dentist in Easton, PA, may recommend only a professional cleaning and give you instructions on how to manage the condition at home. However, when the disease progresses, some of the following options may become necessary when you visit College Hill Dental Group:

Root planing and scaling. This is a more invasive form of dental cleaning because it involves cleaning beneath your gum line. Don’t worry about the pain of this procedure; it will be performed under a local anesthetic.
Gum surgery may also be needed to repair the damage that has been caused by gum disease. For example, your Easton, PA dentist may recommend a gingivectomy. This is a surgical procedure during which infected gum tissue is removed. Flap surgery is another option when cleaning below the gum line is necessary.
Regenerative procedures. You may also need to undergo oral surgery at College Hill Dental Group if one of our dentists finds that you have lost a lot of bone or soft tissues to gum disease. Bone grafting or a gum graft may be the specific procedure that you undergo to trigger the regeneration of bone or soft tissues.

How to Prevent Gum Disease

It is always better to prevent gum disease instead of waiting to have it treated by your dentist in Easton. The following preventive measures can help in this regard:

Brush your teeth two times every day using a fluoride toothpaste
Floss daily using flossing string, a water flosser, or any other device recommended by your dentist
Visit College Hill Dental Group regularly to have your teeth cleaned by a professional as well as to undergo dental checkups.
Stop smoking

Gum disease can affect anyone at any time. It is best to combine at-home preventive care with regular professional care provided by your Easton, PA dentist. If you suspect that you have gum disease, contact us immediately, and we will do everything possible to treat the condition before it progresses.

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