Gum Disease | Exotic Birds Blog

How Do You Know if You Need a Gum Graft?

October 2nd, 2009 by Johnson

The question “How do you know if you need a gum graft?” is often asked by people who meet a dentist in a social setting or at some function or another with some frequency. This is a bit surprising, considering how most people not only don’t want to see a dentist but how they never want to meet up with one in any sort of setting, dental-related or not. Those with gum disease are at particular risk of requiring such a treatment.

For some reason, the thought of having to be treated by a dentist chills people far more than having to be treated by a medical doctor. Perhaps, though, if people would take better care of their teeth the annual visit to the dentist wouldn’t be quite so unsettling to many. Regarding the matter of gum grafts, which seem to be more common with every passing year, there are a few indicators of possible need. Those who use an oral irrigator, such as the hydrofloss, might have a better chance of avoiding gum disease.

For one, a person would benefit from a grafting might have a root exposed, though he or she wouldn’t be able to see it just by looking in the mirror. Generally, it’s painful to brush that exposed root. Also, a dentist might see a lot of plaque buildup on the same root or the root of the tooth may even be decayed. A good graft can cover and even protect that root from further harm.

Another good indicator that a gum graft might be called for is what dentist’s call “tooth hypersensitivity.” Just the phrase is enough to conjure an ache of the tooth, most people would say. Many times, covering that hypersensitive root area with a gum graft can help eliminate such sensations. Lastly, an exposed or decaying root can make a tooth look unattractive. A graft can help correct that.

Gum graft surgery has a high success rate and complete healing of the gum and the area of the palate from which the tissue that goes onto the gum was taken will usually take from 4 to 8 weeks. About 14 days after surgery, the tissue over that donor site will begin to thicken and pain in the area will decrease markedly.

Author: Scott W.

Disclaimer: If you have or think you might have gum disease or any other health problem, please visit your doctor or periodontist for advice, diagnosis and treatment. This article is for information purposes only and does not intend to provide advice, diagnosis or treatment for any health condition.

Read the rest »

The Fears Of Gum Disease

September 25th, 2009 by Johnson

dental irrigators

Awareness of gum disease is at our fingertips. Education is readily available. Sometimes we neglect to realize how it can affect us. Bacteria, that forms in the mouth is a main cause. It can cause damage to the gums.

Once the bacteria settles over time, it begins destroying tissues between gums and teeth, known as periodontal disease. When this happens we know there is a problem, but don’t often think of gum disease as being the cause.

The initial stage of gum disease begins with plaque build up. Plaque is constantly forming on your teeth, and we aren’t always aware of it. If you are wondering how, its bacteria, that forms plaque. This can be controlled with regular dental visits routine cleaning. You can help with daily oral hygiene which includes brushing thoroughly after all meals and snacks. If you don’t floss, this a good practice to incorporate into your daily routine as well. This helps cut down on build up.

Eventually, plaque turns into a solid, firm layer which is identified as tarter. Once tarter sets in, it is extremely difficult to remove it. You’d have to seek a professional for a scraping as it is snuggly attached to the teeth. To avoid this phase of gum disease, good oral hygiene habits help. Going to your dentist, typically twice a year for cleanings, and the brushing and flossing are good prevention measures.

The next phase after tarter, is deterioration of the tissue. When the tissue has been damaged, it causes the teeth to separate. Meaning, they will soon become lose and in the long run, you will begin to lose them.

Education on gum disease, learning about its causes and effects can be alarming. With the advancements in technology and medical enhancements, it can be overcome.

Author: Scott Wells

Disclaimer: This article is for information purposes only. If you have or think you might have a health problem of any kind, visit your doctor or dentist for advice, diagnosis and treatment.

Read the rest »