What You Need to Know About Tooth Decay | 27615 Periodontist

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27615 periodontist

Painful, infected teeth are not a pleasant experience, but they are common symptoms of tooth decay. However, the good news is that tooth decay is preventable. Your best defense against decay is a proper daily oral hygiene routine, as well as regular visits to our office. It can be helpful to know more about tooth decay and what causes it so that you are better equipped with the knowledge to prevent it.

Sugar is Not the Sole Cause 

Sugar is a leading cause of tooth decay. Sugar build-up and deposits on your teeth lead to the erosion of the tooth. While it is important to be mindful of the sugary products you are consuming, sugar is not the only culprit in causing tooth decay. Acids can also damage your teeth. Foods that are high in acidic content can speed up the process of decay. Our periodontist in Raleigh suggests you avoid drinks and candies with high sugar or acid content.

If you do find yourself consuming such things, make sure to keep up with your daily oral hygiene routine. The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research recommends avoiding snacks between meals, limiting sugary drinks and fruit juices, and not eating or drinking before bedtime after brushing.

Decay Isn’t Always Noticeable 

Decay doesn’t always have noticeable signs. By the time you feel discomfort, it could be a sign that the decay has spread beyond one tooth. In other words, by the time you do feel it , the decay is usually fairly deep into the tooth. This can be prevented by regular visits to our office. Our periodontist can help identify potential issues early on and you will receive the best possible treatments for your teeth.

Fillings Are Not Indestructible

Previous fillings do not mean that your teeth are free of decay forever. It is essential that you maintain proper daily care of your teeth. It is possible to develop decay around existing dental fillings, so be sure you are still diligent with your oral hygiene. If your existing fillings are giving you trouble, schedule an appointment to see your dentist. 

No Age Discrimination 

All age groups are at risk of developing tooth decay. Parents should keep an eye on their children’s sugary snacks and treats, but this advice holds true for everyone. Senior citizens are particularly vulnerable because of certain medications that can damage their teeth or cause dry mouth.  It is essential that all age groups are receiving twice-yearly dental examinations.

Tooth decay is a common dental issue. However, with the right knowledge you can prevent damage to your teeth. Watch your diet and make sure you limit sugary candies and snacks. Remember, you won’t always be able to see or feel decay, so contact our office to schedule a regular visit.

For more helpful tips on preventing decay, or to schedule an appointment, contact our Raleigh, NC periodontics office.

Tar Heel Periodontics and Implant Dentistry
Phone: (919) 844-7140
cash, credit card
10931 Strickland Rd.
Raleigh, NC 27615

A Drink That Can Destroy Your Oral Health | Periodontist in Raleigh NC

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27519 periodontist

If carbonated soft drinks are part of your normal daily routine, you may be causing serious damage to your teeth. Recent studies have found soft drinks to be among the most potent dietary causes of tooth decay. Soft drinks have also been implicated in increases of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and other serious health conditions. Before you shop for beverages this week, consider a few things our periodontist in Raleigh thinks you should know about soft drinks.

Most soft drinks contain substantial amounts of sugars, which interact with the bacteria in your mouth. This interaction produces a form of acid that can damage your teeth for about 20 minutes. Each time you take a drink, you reset that time window. If you consume throughout the day, you are essentially bathing your teeth in that beverage for hours. 

Most soft drinks contain acids, as well. Even sugar-free varieties contain acids that can weaken the enamel on your teeth. Colas and citrus-flavored soft drinks tend to have the highest levels of acid. Over time, this weakening of tooth enamel has a cumulative effect. This can lead to decay and even tooth loss if not addressed in early stages.

Obviously, the best solution is to stop consuming carbonated soft drinks. However, it can be a difficult habit to break. Here are some tips to help reduce your risks of tooth damage from these beverages:

  • Drink in moderation. Too much sugar and acid will eventually cause damage. Swap out soda for fruit-infused water. 
  • Drink more water. You will crave soft drinks less when you are fully hydrated.
  • Don’t sip. The longer you spend drinking, the more time sugars and acids are reacting with your teeth.
  • Use a straw. This can help keep the sugars and acids away from your teeth.
  • Rinse with water after drinking to dilute acids and sugars.
  • Don’t brush immediately. Wait at least 30 minutes for acids to be neutralized by saliva before brushing.
  • Practice good dental hygiene. This  includes brushing, flossing, and regular professional dental cleanings and exams.

Carbonated soft drinks can be harmful to your oral and overall health. Be mindful of how often you consume them and consider reducing or stopping your use of these dangerous beverages. For more oral health tips or to schedule an appointment, contact our periodontics office in Raleigh, NC.

Tar Heel Periodontics and Implant Dentistry
Phone: (919) 844-7140
cash, credit card
10931 Strickland Rd.
Raleigh, NC 27615

The 411 On Periodontal Disease | 27519 Dental Implants

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Dental Implants 27615

Maintaining your gum health is vital to your overall health. When you visit our Periodontist in Raleigh office for an examination, our trained hygienists perform a periodontal exam. In fact, during your examination, our team is assessing your oral health by checking a number of different factors. Here are the most important things that you need to know about periodontal disease.

A Disease With Many Names 

You may have heard periodontal disease referred to as gum disease or gingivitis. Periodontal disease is the inflammation and infection of your gums. These names are frequently used interchangeably.

Signs & Symptoms

Periodontal disease may be marked by swollen and red gums. Bleeding, especially while brushing and flossing, may also occur. Another symptom of periodontal disease is persistent bad breath. Eventually periodontal disease can lead to loose teeth because of loss of the bone structure around the teeth. If you experience any of these symptoms regularly, please contact our Periodontist 27615 office.

The Link To Systemic Health

Your gum health is linked to your overall health. If left untreated, periodontal disease can lead to bleeding gums, gum recession, and tooth loss. The effects of periodontal disease extend well beyond your mouth. In fact, according to the American Academy of Periodontology, the disease can increase your risk of developing heart disease, diabetes, dementia, and stroke.

While you may think of your teeth as the primary reason to visit our Periodontist Cary office for a regular examination, understand that our team is looking beyond your teeth to assess your oral health and potential impacts on your overall health. Talk to our experienced Periodontist in Cary team if you experience any signs or symptoms of periodontal disease.

Our Raleigh, NC Periodontist team is trained to identify signs of periodontal disease. When detected early and managed properly, periodontal disease can be stabilized.  For more information regarding your gum health, please contact our Periodontist Wake Forest office, or schedule a consultation. 

Tar Heel Periodontics and Implant Dentistry
Phone: (919) 844-7140
Url: https://www.tarheelperio.com/
10931 Strickland Rd.
Raleigh, NC 27615

Floss Your Way To Better Health | Cary Periodontist

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Periodontist Raleigh

Loose teeth, bad breath, and painful, bleeding gums are among the signs and symptoms of periodontal, or gum, disease. Unfortunately, periodontal disease can also begin without any obvious symptoms. If left undiagnosed or untreated, you could be at risk for irreparable damage to your teeth and gums. The good news is that periodontal disease is preventable. In fact, one of the most effective tools for preventing the disease only takes a minute of your time each day. 

Floss the Teeth You Want To Keep 

Dental floss is an effective and easy-to-use tool that can be among your best defenses for preventing periodontal disease. Periodontal disease is caused by a buildup of plaque and bacteria. Even if your daily oral hygiene routine already includes a thorough brushing that lasts for two minutes, at least twice each day, you should be flossing daily as well. Dental floss is highly effective at cleaning areas where your toothbrush cannot reach. Small gaps and tight spaces between teeth catch food debris and bacteria. Flossing helps to clean out these tough to reach spaces.

Flossing 101

According to a survey referenced by the American Dental Association, only 40% of Americans floss each day. The same study showed a clear link between regular intra-oral care and better oral health. Unfortunately, many people also lie about how frequently they clean between their teeth. A study from the American Academy of Periodontology found that 27% of adults lie to their dentist about their flossing habits.

The Correct Technique

It can be confusing to figure out the best way to use dental floss. Try cutting off about 18 inches of floss and wrapping most of it carefully around your middle finger. Use roughly one inch to clean between each pair of teeth. Using your thumb and index finger, carefully slide the floss between your teeth. Floss to your gumline, but be gentle. Wrap the floss in a C-shape around the sides of each tooth. Work your way through your 18 inches of floss by using a new, clean section between each pair of adjacent teeth. 

It only takes about a minute to floss your teeth each day, but these minutes contribute to a lifetime of optimal oral health. Floss is among the most effective tools at your disposal to keep your gums clean and healthy. Get into the habit of flossing your teeth regularly– your body will thank you.

For more information about gum health, or to schedule a visit to our Raleigh Periodontist office, please contact our Periodontist in Raleigh, NC team.

Tar Heel Periodontics and Implant Dentistry
Phone: (919) 844-7140
Url: https://www.tarheelperio.com/
10931 Strickland Rd.
Raleigh, NC 27615

Raleigh NC Periodontist | The Truth About How We Hydrate

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Prior to the 1960s, professional athletes, marathon runners, high school jocks, and little league ballplayers all reached for the same thing when they grew thirsty: water. But in 1965, sports drinks took the hydration game by storm.

Raleigh NC Periodontist

Nowadays, people have all but replaced water with these sugary drinks. While popular among star athletes and weekend warriors alike, are these drinks any more effective in keeping us hydrated than water? What kinds of effects do they have on our teeth? Here we take a look at the most important factors to consider when deciding whether to reach for water or your favorite sports drink.

Sports Drinks Have Significantly More Electrolytes and Carbohydrates

Electrolytes. Almost all of us have heard the word, but what exactly are they? Electrolytes are minerals that create an electrical charge when absorbed by the body. These elements help aid the brain in sending nerve signals to the rest of the body, ensure proper muscle contraction, and regulate acidity in the blood (also known as pH levels). The electrolytes and extra carbohydrates contained in drinks like Gatorade and Powerade can be beneficial for individuals participating in intense, continuous exercise for several hours at a time.

However, the truth is, most of us don’t need either.

Some studies have found that because of the carbohydrates and electrolytes they contain, sports drinks can improve the performance of endurance athletes like runners, cyclists, and soccer players. But for regular individuals who aren’t planning on running a marathon or cycling for several hours in sweltering heat, water performs just as well. Several scientific studies have shown no difference in the hydrating power of the two drinks with mild to moderate activity. .

Sweeter Isn’t Always Better

While the sugars found in many sports drinks may help them taste great, they also produce acids that dissolve and damage your teeth. By contrast, water can actually help wash away the bacteria responsible for tooth decay, keeping your teeth and gums healthier.

As with every sweet treat, sports drinks can be enjoyed in moderation in order to protect your oral and overall health. For now though, good old fashioned water is still king of the beverages for us and our oral health.

If you haven’t done so already, book your next appointment with Tar Heel Periodontics and Implant Dentistry today to keep your teeth and gums in optimal health. We look forward to seeing you.

 

Tar Heel Periodontics and Implant Dentistry
Phone: (919) 844-7140
cash, credit card
10931 Strickland Rd.
Raleigh, NC 27615

Raleigh NC Periodontist | How Optimal Oral Health Can Protect You from Arthritis

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Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a complex autoimmune condition that affects sufferers in a variety of challenging ways. While many of us are relatively familiar with how rheumatoid arthritis impacts our joints and energy levels, fewer are aware of the condition’s relationship to our oral health. RA is correlated with gum disease, gum inflammation, and tooth loss. This connection between rheumatoid arthritis and oral health has been firmly established by scientific research. While scientists have not definitively sussed out all the particulars of this relationship, what’s clear is that the fewer teeth we have and the worse our oral health is, the more susceptible we are to RA.

Raleigh NC Periodontist

Teeth, Gums, and Joints

A growing body of evidence over the past several decades has shown that there is a strong relationship between the health of our teeth and gums and whether or not we develop rheumatoid arthritis over the course of our lifetimes. A study conducted between 1987 and 1998 illustrates this connection. Researchers looked at over 6,000 men and women and found that individuals with serious gum disease were twice as likely to meet criteria for RA compared with people who had healthy gums and teeth.

A paper presented at the European Congress of Rheumatology in 2012 further solidified the connection. It showed that the fewer teeth a person has, the more likely they are to develop RA. Researchers also found that those with the fewest teeth had the most severe—and least treatable—rheumatoid arthritis.

Treating Our Mouths Can Alleviate RA Symptoms

This connection has a positive flip side, though. Individuals with RA or experiencing the early stages of RA symptoms may actually be able to protect themselves from the condition by treating their teeth. A 2009 study determined that by engaging in good periodontal care, rheumatoid arthritis patients were able to reduce the severity of their symptoms. The highly encouraging study suggests that by seeking out a dentist and rigorously treating periodontitis and gum disease, individuals can actually ease the joint pain and fatigue that can become a daily struggle for RA sufferers.

Recent research indicates that we can take even greater initiative, though. We don’t have to wait until rheumatoid arthritis symptoms are severe for us to seek periodontal care. It’s clear that the healthier our gums and teeth are, the more protected we are from RA. Keep on top of your oral health—fighting gum disease, gum recession, and tooth decay—and you’ll give yourself a much better chance of leading a completely RA-free life. Do so by scheduling your next appointment with Tar Heel Periodontics and Implant Dentistry today.

 

Tar Heel Periodontics and Implant Dentistry
Phone: (919) 844-7140
cash, credit card
10931 Strickland Rd.
Raleigh, NC 27615

Raleigh NC Periodontist | Why You Shouldn’t Wait to Get Gum Recession Treatment

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Gum recession is a relatively common condition in which a person’s gum lines recede upward toward the roof of their mouth. Gum recession can be caused by a number of different things, including gum disease, teeth-grinding, brushing too hard, and inheriting genes that produce weaker gum tissue. But while the condition isn’t unusual, it is something that should be taken seriously. People who address their gum recession early build a foundation for strong oral health through the rest of their lives. Here are some of the most important reasons to seek out treatment at the first signs of gum recession.

Raleigh NC Periodontist

Root Exposure 

The visible parts of healthy teeth are called the crowns. Crowns are fortified with a layer of enamel that keep them protected from all the wear-and-tear that comes with 24/7 exposure. Underneath the crown is the root. The root is arguably the most important part of a tooth. It keeps teeth anchored in the mouth and connects them to the rest of the body.

When gums recede enough, they eventually leave your teeth’s roots exposed. This is not a position you want your teeth to be in. Exposed roots can be extremely sensitive and vulnerable to rot, decay, and, ultimately, tooth loss.

Gum Disease

Gum recession leaves mouths more exposed to bacteria that can cause more serious conditions, including gingivitis and periodontitis. These gum diseases can create a host of undesirable symptoms and complications, including swollen and tender gums, bad breath, and bleeding.

“Toothier” Smile

The underlying health of our teeth and gums is vitally important. But we also can’t deny the aesthetic weight our teeth carry, either. A person’s teeth and smile play a substantial role in their overall appearance. Individuals with significant gum recession have smiles that suffer for it. Without normal gum levels, people tend to have toothier smiles that show off exposed roots and less-than-ideal gum lines.

While some people think that gum recession is a normal phenomenon that doesn’t require dental intervention, those who really care about their teeth know better. Getting a deep cleaning or even opting for more intensive procedures can have a major impact on your teeth both in the present and future. Contact Tar Heel Periodontics and Implant Dentistry to schedule an appointment today. We’ll discuss whether gum recession treatment is necessary for you, as well as the next steps. We look forward to seeing you.

 

 

Tar Heel Periodontics and Implant Dentistry
Phone: (919) 844-7140
cash, credit card
10931 Strickland Rd.
Raleigh, NC 27615

North Carolina Periodontist | Could Your Children Be Suffering from Gum Disease?

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While most parents may be focused on making sure their children’s teeth grow straight, and the upper and lower sets are in alignment with each other, they shouldn’t overlook the importance of their kids’ gums. Gums protect the roots of our teeth. In addition, they act as a critical barrier between them and bacteria that could otherwise lead to decay.

North Carolina Periodontist

If your child’s gums are not healthy, then their oral health care is in jeopardy. It’s that simple. Here are some of the major telltale signs that he or she may be suffering from gum disease.

 

Regular Bleeding

It’s one thing for a child’s gums to bleed if he or she is flossing for the first time, or undergoing an intensive cleaning at the dentist’s office. But if your kid’s gums are bleed regularly—either from brushing, flossing, or even just eating certain foods—it’s a sign of gingivitis.

 

Receding Gums

If your child’s gums appear to be receding away from the teeth, toward the top or bottom of the mouth, he or she could be suffering from gum recession. Whatever the cause, receding gums can expose the roots of teeth and leave mouths more vulnerable to harmful bacteria.

 

Bad Breath

Bad breath isn’t just a crippling social inconvenience. It’s also a sign that something serious is going on in your child’s mouth that requires attention. Also known as halitosis, bad breath often signals bacterial buildup in the mouth, an infection, or a potentially more serious periodontal disease.

 

Swollen Gums

If a child’s gums are unusually sensitive and swell up easily, it’s a major indication of gingivitis. Gingivitis typically means that too much plaque has been allowed to build up at the bottom of the teeth’s crowns, near the root. The plaque buildup starts irritating the gums, which respond by turning red, puffy, and swollen.

 

Signs of gum disease in children should not be overlooked or ignored. While manifestations like puffy and bleeding gums do not necessarily point to an urgent condition, they do mean that your child is likely suffering from gingivitis.

 

Fortunately, gingivitis is a highly treatable condition. The best way to beat back symptoms of gingivitis and restore your child’s oral health care is by visiting Tar Heel Periodontics and Implant Dentistry. Our North Carolina Periodontist has the equipment and expertise to remove all the bacteria, plaque and tartar and restore your child’s health.

 

Tar Heel Periodontics and Implant Dentistry
Phone: (919) 844-7140
cash, credit card
10931 Strickland Rd.
Raleigh, NC 27615

North Carolina Periodontist | Gum Disease Risk Factors

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Everyone can fall victim to gum disease. In fact, a recent CDC study found that nearly half of all American adults suffer from some form of it. A plethora of factors can increase our chances of developing gum disease. For those that already have the condition, these factors can lead to more serious periodontitis that jeopardizes overall oral health and may require dental intervention. Here are some of those factors.

North Carolina Periodontist

Genetics

It’s now well established that genetics play a role in whether or not people develop gum disease during their lifetimes. This could be because their genetic makeup causes them to have weaker gum tissue, making it more vulnerable to plaque, tartar, and recession.

 

Teeth-Grinding

Bruxism is a condition in which people clench or grind their teeth either during the daytime hours or when they’re asleep at night. The condition puts a significant amount of stress on the tissue surrounding the teeth, and can trigger gum recession.

 

Old Age

Research shows that individuals age 65 and older are at a much higher risk for gum disease. The CDC has indicated that as many as 70 percent of Americans in that age range suffer from periodontitis.

 

Nutritional Deficiencies

The right kinds of vitamins and nutrients can positively influence the health of your gums. Foods like carrots, apples, and celery trigger the kind of chewing motion that massages the gums and produces healthy saliva.

 

Dry Mouth

People get dry mouth for a variety of reasons, including prescription medications, nicotine use, and certain health issues. Whatever the source of dry mouth, the condition is dangerous to gums. Saliva helps wash away much of the destructive bacteria that lives inside our mouths. If we’re not regularly washing our mouths with saliva, that bacteria rapidly accumulates.

 

While this list is far from complete, it can be used as a great starting guide for you to use. Whether or not you have any of these risk factors, you should always consult with your North Caroline Periodontist  about your oral health and how to best protect yourself. Be sure to keep up with your regularly scheduled appointments with our Raleigh Periodontist and contact Tar Heel Periodontics and Implant Dentistry today.

 

Tar Heel Periodontics and Implant Dentistry
Phone: (919) 844-7140
cash, credit card
10931 Strickland Rd.
Raleigh, NC 27615

North Carolina Periodontist | Reap the Total Health Benefits of Brushing and Flossing

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Brushing and flossing are not only good for a fresh breath and a beautiful smile. As it turns out, there are advantages for your entire body as well. Below, we’ll take a look at some of the ways brushing your teeth can help you keep you healthy from teeth to toes.

Brushing and flossing can help with your overall body weight in some pretty unique ways. For example, good oral health decreases your risk of diabetes and also increases your chances of maintaining a healthy and nutritious diet. It’s hard to eat well when your mouth is in constant pain from poor health. Also, brushing acts as a natural signal for your brain that you are finished eating. Brushing can also burn up to 3,500 calories per year. Every little bit counts.

 

For mothers, oral health is important not only for yourself, but also for that of your baby. Women with chronic gum disease can have an increased chance of premature births and low birth weights for their children. When pregnant, not only are you eating for two, but remember that you’re also brushing and flossing for two.

 

Brushing and flossing are also great ways to keep your gums healthy. Recent studies have linked gum disease to cognitive dysfunction and even Alzheimer’s disease. Gingivitis was found to be connected to poor cognitive function and health throughout a patient’s lifetime.

 

While it certainly won’t replace regular exercise and a healthy diet any time soon, brushing your teeth can have a real impact on your wellness. To see the best results, be diligent in your brushing regimen and remember to contact Tar Heel Periodontics and Implant Dentistry and schedule your next appointment today.

 

Tar Heel Periodontics and Implant Dentistry
Phone: (919) 844-7140
cash, credit card
10931 Strickland Rd.
Raleigh, NC 27615