Tooth sensitivity is common and can develop over time, typically because of gum recession or enamel wear. It can occur in specific areas of your mouth. In some cases, Sensodyne is recommended to relieve sensitivity, or other treatment may be necessary to alleviate the problem.
Brushing and flossing at least twice per day can help prevent cavities, gum disease, infections, and tooth loss. Regular dental visits can help detect problems early before they become a major issue.
Gingivitis is a mild form of gum disease that can result in redness, swelling, and bleeding. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, a more serious stage of gum disease. Other contributors to gum disease and oral health problems include smoking and diabetes.
- Gingivitis generally does not cause pain.
- Signs of gingivitis include red, spongy, shiny, or swollen gums that bleed easily, even during regular tooth brushing.
- Gingivitis may only affect a small area of the mouth in the early stages. If it progresses, it can affect the entire mouth.
Periodontal disease is the result of infections and inflammation of the gums and bone that surround and support the teeth. Gingivitis is the early stage of gum disease, causing the gums to become swollen, red, tender, and prone to bleeding. In its more serious form — called periodontitis — the gums can pull away from the tooth, bone can be lost, and the teeth may loosen or fall out.
Teeth whitening brightens and changes the color of your teeth by either altering the intrinsic color or by removing and controlling the formation of extrinsic stains. Your dentist, depending on the type and severity of the staining, may suggest one or more of the following:
- Over-the-counter whitening toothpaste, bleaching gels, or bleaching strips
- Professional in-office bleaching or custom bleaching trays
- Porcelain veneers
Teeth that are brown, gray, or striped from tetracycline use or excessive fluoride may not whiten evenly. For best results, we recommend starting with a professional dental cleaning to remove surface stains caused by wine, tea, soda, food, and tobacco.
A crown (or cap) is a covering that encases the entire tooth surface, restoring it to its original shape and size. It protects and strengthens tooth structure that cannot be restored with a filling. Porcelain crowns are made to match the shape, size, and color of your natural teeth, giving you a long-lasting, natural-looking smile. Common reasons for dental crowns include:
- Broken or fractured teeth
- Cracked teeth
- Tooth decay
- Teeth that have had a root canal
- Large existing fillings
- After implant surgery (implant crown)
Dental implants are artificial tooth roots. When placed in your jawbone, they bond with your natural bone and become a sturdy base for supporting an implant crown, implant bridge, or dentures.
- A permanent solution for missing teeth
- Decreases the possibility of bone loss, periodontal disease, tooth movement, and further tooth loss
- Eliminates the need for removable full or partial dentures
- Targets only the missing tooth or teeth — unlike a traditional bridge, which requires adjacent teeth to be compromised
- Routine dental visits are essential to the long-term success of dental implants