Celebrate National Gum Care Month

gum care month - Easton PA

Ways You Can Improve Your Gums for National Gum Care Month 

Did you know September is National Gum Care Month? This month brings us all the joy because we love helping our patients achieve optimal oral health. This dental holiday is all about increasing awareness of oral health. If you’ve been putting your oral health on the back burner, now is the time to start making positive changes! In this blog, your dentist in Easton, PA, shares a few ways you can celebrate Gum Care Month. 

Floss Daily

One of the biggest steps skipped in an oral health regimen is flossing. Most dentists agree that daily flossing practice is the single most critical thing you can do to promote the health of your gums.

Why? While brushing your teeth is important for your overall oral health, standard brushing cannot usually reach tiny food particles in between your teeth. As a result, harmful bacteria are still present. Inflammation and even tooth infection can arise. If you want to keep your gums healthy and avoid dental problems, floss daily! 

Brush Your Teeth Twice a Day

Keeping this in mind, don’t overlook the necessity of cleaning your teeth and gums at least twice a day. While flossing is more necessary for gum health, brushing cleans the entire mouth of disease-causing germs. This is one of the best ways to maintain good oral health.

Take Care of Your Gums

It’s okay if your gums aren’t on your typical daily checklist when you’re checking in the mirror on your way out the door. However, it is critical to evaluate your gums on a regular basis and to be aware of any changes that occur. Our friend Dr. Leeson, a dentist in St. Pete, FL, says gum disease can sneak up on you since there are so many different stages. In fact, most people don’t realize they have gum disease until they visit their dentist. Preventative dentistry is key to avoiding gum disease.

Here are some gum disease symptoms to keep an eye on:

  • Gums that are red, puffy, swollen, or sore
  • Bleeding as a result of brushing or flossing
  • Gums that are receding 
  • Gaps or pockets at the gum line 
  • Bad breath

Visit Your Dentist in Easton, PA

Make sure the above tasks are a part of your daily routine. It’ll not only protect you from gum disease but other dental problems. Dr. Dave Moghadam, your local dentist, says that your teeth are made to last a lifetime, but only if you take good care of them. Additionally, that’s why it’s important to visit your dentist in Easton, PA, for regular dental exams and cleanings. At College Hill Dental Group, we offer a dental savings plan for patients who do not have insurance. This makes visiting our office more affordable. During your visit, your hygienist will take dental x-rays, examine your teeth and gums, get rid of plaque, and professionally brush and floss your teeth. If you do have gum disease, Dr. Moghadam will recommend periodontal therapy. Contact College Hill Dental Group for all your dental needs! 

Reasons to Get Same-Day Crowns

Reasons To Get Same-Day Crowns - Easton PA

3 Reasons To Get Same-Day Crowns

College Hill Dental Group is here to assist you with your dental needs. Dental crowns are often used to restore your smile. Our dentist in Easton, PA, specializes in same-day CEREC crowns at our dental practice. A crown can be developed and set in only two hours, saving you time and making it easier to get the treatment you require. Traditional crowns, on the other hand, take at least two appointments to complete. In this article, we explore some of the reasons to get same-day crowns in Easton, PA. 

One & Done

Fitting many dentist appointments into your busy schedule can be difficult, especially if you need to take time away from work to come into the office.

Traditional crowns require two visits. Your tooth has to be prepared at your initial appointment, and molds will be taken to make your crown. Then you’ll have to wait for several days while these molds are sent to a third-party lab where your crown will be created. This means you’ll have to coordinate two appointments, which may be scheduled weeks apart.

As previously mentioned, same-day dental crowns, on the other hand, can be completed in only one appointment. This saves you a significant amount of time and trouble, says Dr. Dave Moghadam. 

No Messy Compression

Digital same-day crowns build a thorough 3D image of your mouth without the use of dental imprints by employing sophisticated cameras and other instruments.

Patients are frequently irritated during dental impressions. To take a mold of the teeth, two trays must be filled with dental putty and placed in the mouth. Some patients with strong gag reflexes are exceedingly uncomfortable during the imprint process since these trays are thick and taste bad. Our friends at Digital Doc, the creator of the X80 Intraoral Camera, add that dental practices that are not moving toward modern dental practices will be left for more innovative practice. You can eliminate dental impressions and yet get the crown you need if you choose a same-day crown.

Say Goodbye to Temporary Crowns

Since traditional crowns require several appointments, they require a temporary crown as well. Your temporary crown will only be placed until your permanent crown is made. This can take up to two to three weeks, although delays are not uncommon. Temporary crowns are usually unstable and painful because they are composed of a lower-quality acrylic resin and are held in place using temporary dental cement. Brushing your teeth, chewing, and speaking with a temporary crown may be inconvenient.

There is no need for temporary crowns because same-day CEREC crowns are produced and implanted in only one consultation. You could say this is a significant reason to get same-day crowns. 

Contact College Hill Dental Group

College Hill Dental Group in Easton, PA, is happy to provide you with speedy, compassionate care. If you’re experiencing a broken crown, or need a new one post-root canal therapy, give us a call! We look forward to meeting you soon.

Signs of a Dead Tooth

signs of a dead tooth - dentist in Easton PA

Signs of a Dead Tooth

As you probably know, creating good oral health habits is very important. With the proper love and care, our teeth can last a lifetime. There are many layers that make up the tooth: the pulp, enamel, and dentin. The pulp of the tooth needs a constant blood supply to remain healthy and alive. A dead tooth occurs when the nerves in the tooth pulp are weakened by an injury or decay. If left untreated, the dead tooth will cause problems with the jaw and other teeth. In this article, our dentists in Easton, PA, discuss some of the signs of a dead tooth and how this dental problem can be avoided.

Potential Causes of a Dead Tooth

A dead tooth is the last thing Dr. Moghadam wants for his patients. There are only a few causes that could lead to a dead tooth:

  • Physical damage to the tooth. A serious injury can cut off the tooth’s blood supply, causing the tooth to die. If you’ve damaged your tooth, contact an emergency dentist immediately.
  • Poor dental hygiene can result in cavities. Untreated cavities can cause inflammation in the tooth pulp, cutting off the tooth’s blood supply and causing it to die. The inflammation usually leads to an abscessed tooth. If you believe you’re experiencing any dental problems, it’s critical that you contact a dental professional. 

Symptoms of a Dead Tooth

Many dental problems go without notice at first. However, if you’re experiencing tooth pain or tooth discoloration, you should see a dentist immediately. The following are some signs of a dead tooth:

  • Tooth pain – If your tooth is gone, you can feel pain in and around it. Pain may be mild or severe as a result of an infection or dying nerves.
  • Tooth discoloration – A dead or dying tooth will not obtain blood supply, causing the tooth’s color to change to yellow, light brown, gray, or black. If the dead tooth is not removed, the discoloration can worsen.
  • Swelling above the gum line
  • Bad breath or bad taste

How Is a Dead Tooth Identified?

It is recommended that you see your dentist as soon as possible if you have a tooth injury or experience some sort of discomfort or discoloration in your tooth so that recovery can begin. During dental checkups and dental X-rays, a dentist can discover a dead tooth.

Options for Treating a Dead Tooth

A dead tooth is a serious dental problem that should be handled by only the best dentists. If you need restorative dentistry, please contact College Hill Dental Group for a consultation.

  • Root Canal Therapy – If your tooth is salvageable, Dr. Moghdam will likely recommend root canal therapy. Root canals clear out any infection on the root of the tooth. To avoid further infection, the dentist will seal the root and place a same-day crown.
  • Tooth Extraction – If your tooth cannot be repaired or is badly damaged, your dentist in Easton, PA, will advise you to have it extracted. Our friend Dr. Josh Eastham, a dentist in Grand Junction, CO, says to only get a tooth extraction if your tooth is truly in bad condition. To restore your smile, you may need a dental implant or partial/full denture. 

Suggestions for Avoiding a Dead Tooth

The good news is a dead tooth can be avoided. As mentioned above, our teeth can last a lifetime if we take good care of them. Here are a few things you can do to avoid a dead tooth:

  • Brushing and flossing twice a day are examples of good oral hygiene.
  • If you engage in contact sports, wear a mouth guard to protect your teeth.
  • Reduce the consumption of sugary foods and drinks to reduce the risk of cavities and decay.
  • Drink plenty of water, particularly after meals, to wash away food particles.
  • Schedule daily dental checkups and cleanings at our dental office in Easton, PA.

If you are searching for the best remedy for a dead tooth, please contact College Hill Dental Group. Dr. Moghadam or Dr. Walbridge will recommend the best treatment plan for your unique smile. We offer an amazing Smile Protection Plan. Give us a call today!

Must-Knows About Gum Disease

must-knows about gum disease - Easton PA dentist

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.

Tooth Abscess Stages

tooth abscess stages - easton PA

Tooth Abscess Stages

A tooth abscess is a dental problem many patients deal with at one point in their life. An abscess is a mass of pus that grows within a tooth or the structures surrounding it. Tooth abscesses form as a result of a bacterial infection within the tooth, gums, or jaw bone. Infections of this kind may occur as a result of tooth decay, gum disease, or a mouth injury. A tooth abscess can worsen or spread to other parts of the body if left untreated. Understanding what causes a tooth abscess and the tooth abscess stages will help an individual avoid this dental problem. Below, Dr. Moghadam, an emergency dentist in Easton, PA, discusses the different factors of a tooth abscess.

What’s a Tooth Abscess?

A tooth abscess is a mass of pus that forms within a tooth or the structures surrounding it. They occur as a result of a bacterial infection in one of the following areas of the mouth: 

  • The pulp of the tooth, the innermost portion of the tooth, the gums, and the jaw bone.
  • Tooth decay from untreated cavities is the most common cause of tooth abscesses. They can, however, develop as a result of gum disease or an open wound in the mouth.

Tooth decay stages

An abscess is a form of tooth decay in its later stages. The various stages are as follows:

  1. Enamel decay is caused by damage to the tooth’s outermost layer. Some people have no symptoms, whereas others may have increased sensitivity to heat and cold. White spots on the teeth may be caused by enamel deterioration.
  2. Dentin decay: Degeneration of the layer under the enamel of the tooth. Some individuals may experience pain or sensitivity. In certain situations, a clear hole or cavity in the tooth can exist.
  3. Pulp decay occurs as bacteria penetrate deep into the tooth’s innermost layer. Bacteria in the pulp of the tooth may attack the nerve of the tooth, causing excruciating pain. When a nerve is damaged, a person will experience extreme pain at first, followed by no pain at all.
  4. Abscess Form: An abscess develops in the later stages of tooth decay after the bacteria has reached the tooth pulp or has penetrated further into the gums or jawbone. Pressure near the tooth can be felt, as well as swelling and redness of the gums. Our friend, Dr. Josh Eastham, a dentist in Grand Junction, CO, says a serious abscess can also result in a fever.
  5. Tooth loss: A badly decayed tooth can break or fall out.

Symptoms of a Tooth Abscess

An abscess can cause the following symptoms:

  • Tooth pain that can spread to the jaw, ear, or face swelling of the mouth, face, or swollen lymph nodes around the face or neck generally feeling ill a broken tooth
  • Bacteria from a tooth abscess will spread to the bloodstream if not treated. This may lead to the development of a severe and potentially fatal infection known as sepsis.

The following are some of the signs of sepsis/infection:

  • Chills or fever
  • Rapid heartbeat rapid breathing shortness of breath
  • Dizziness, faintness, fatigue, or disorientation
  • Slurred speech
  • Diarrhea 
  • Vomiting and nausea
  • Extreme muscle ache

Causes of Tooth Abscess

Tooth abscesses form when bacteria in the mouth penetrate deep within a tooth or its surrounding structures and grow uncontrollably.

The following are some of the most common causes of a tooth abscess.

Cavities

Many patients experience cavities at some point. When plaque builds, the bacteria in the mouth start to develop plaque. Luckily, plaque can be removed with adequate flossing, brushing, and professional cleanings. However, over time it causes tooth decay. Eventually, an abscess can form if left untreated.

Periodontal Disease

Periodontitis, or gum disease, is an infection and inflammation of the gums. Periodontal disease will develop due to plaque, tartar, and cavities. Those who experience gum disease can expect their gums to recede, become swollen and sensitive. As a result, bacteria form within the pockets, causing an abscess.

Injuries 

A tooth abscess can also be caused by an injury to the tooth or its underlying structures. These injuries may be caused by surgery or damage to the mouth.

Treating Tooth Abscess

  • Dr. Moghadam will administer antibiotics to destroy the bacteria and prevent them from spreading while treating a tooth abscess.
  • Filling cavities, treating gum disease with scaling and root planing, which cleans below the gumline
  • Replacing missing or damaged teeth with crowns or implants

Preventing Tooth Abscess

To help avoid dental abscesses, the following steps should be taken:

  • Brush your teeth thoroughly and get rid of as much plaque as possible. Pay close attention to the area just under the gum line, where plaque can hide.
  • To help prevent tooth decay, use fluoride toothpaste.
  • Floss your teeth on a regular basis to remove plaque between your teeth.
  • Make routine preventative dentistry appointments to ensure proper cleaning. A dentist may also extract hardened plaque or tartar that brushing alone cannot remove.
  • Treat diabetes, as well as any other underlying medical condition that can weaken the immune system and increase the risk of infection.
  • Visit your dentist for treatment for cavities as soon as possible before bacteria can enter deeper structures of the tooth.
  • A tooth abscess is a pocket of pus that occurs as a result of a bacterial infection within the tooth, gum, or jaw.

Tooth abscesses may form as a result of tooth decay, gum disease, or oral trauma. The infection can spread throughout the body, so it’s important to visit your dentist immediately if you’re experiencing a tooth abscess. Contact College Hill Dental Group for quality dental services in Easton, PA.

Invisalign FAQ

Invisalign FAQ - Easton PA

Invisalign FAQs

A bright and beautiful smile is a must in today’s digital world where practically everything is captured on camera. Invisalign is a popular orthodontic treatment that is used to straighten teeth over time. Below, Dr. Dave Moghadam, answers Invisalign FAQs. 

What’s the Invisalign?

Invisalign is a great alternative to braces. It allows patients to go through treatment without bulky, metal brackets and wires. So, how does it work? When you visit our dental office in Easton, PA, we will use a 3D imaging technology to create a custom treatment plan. Here, we will show you how your teeth will be positioned once treatment is over. Then, you’ll be given your first series of aligners, which will slowly move your teeth over time. Every so often you’ll need to switch out your trays for the next set. 

What Are The Invisalign Liners Made Of?

Simple aligners are made of lightweight plastic called SmartTrack®, specifically designed for Invisalign treatments. Aligners are FDA-approved and do not contain BPA, BPS, latex or gluten.

What problems can Invisalign deal with?

Patients often ask us which dental problems Invisalign clear aligners can fix. Most dental concerns can be fixed with Invisalign. However, Invisalign isn’t for everyone. Talk to your dentist in Easton, PA, about whether or not your unique smile can 

Invisalign can fix: 

  • Crowded teeth
  • Overbite
  • Underbite
  • Crossbite
  • Tooth Gap

Who’s the Invisalign for?

As mentioned before, Invisalign isn’t for everyone. The perfect candidate for Invisalign is usually adults or teenagers. Children who have lost all of their baby teeth can use Invisalign. However, our friend Dr. Hoang, a dentist in Bethlehem, GA, points out that children aren’t as responsible, so taking on Invisalign may be too big of a responsibility for them since they will need to take them out in between meals.

What Are the Advantages of Invisalign?

There are so many advantages to Invisalgin, says Dr. Dave. Not only is Invisalign transparent and discreet, but they’re also removable! It eliminates the inconvenience of brushing, flossing, and eating with traditional braces. Most patients choose Invisalign aligners because hardly anyone notices they’re going through an orthodontic treatment.

What’s the Right Way toTake Care of  My Aligners?

Many dentists in Easton, PA, will recommend using an Invisalign Cleaning Device to eliminate germs. You should also gently brush and rinse your clear aligners with toothpaste and warm water. Dr. Dave doesn’t recommend rinsing with hot water in case your custom aligners warp. 

Is Invisalign Going to Straighten My Teeth If I’ve Had Braces in The Past?

Yes! This is actually pretty common. If you don’t take good care of your teeth after braces, there’s a chance that they shift out of place. Invisalign can fix a lot of simple and complex problems. Contact College Hill Dental Group today for an Invisalign consultation!