One big reason to visit the dentist is to have your teeth cleaned by a professional hygienist. Plaque and tartar develop on teeth over time. Plaque is soft and sticky, but daily brushing can usually remove much of it. But plaque hardens into tartar, which is beyond the scope of a typical toothbrush and floss. Tartar accumulates under the gumline as well as on the surface of the teeth. If plaque isn’t removed, you risk more serious problems with your teeth and gums later. Research shows a strong link between untreated gum disease and other serious conditions like heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. Having a regular teeth cleaning is one of the best things you can do to stay healthy!
Teeth with roots that have damage or infection used to require extraction, which can cause a lot of problems
and should be avoided if possible. The good news is that we are highly experienced in advanced root canal
therapy. A root canal is a technique to repair a tooth by removing the pulp chamber and filling it with a
filling material. This is often needed when dental decay reaches the nerve of the tooth (or the tooth has become
infected), and a standard filling will not be suitable.
Not too long ago, the situation mentioned above would have required the tooth to be extracted. When dentists
started performing root canals, they were quite dreaded, and the root canal has gotten a reputation as something
to be avoided. However, with modern anesthetics and technology, root canals are generally manageable.
Just as our bodies change as we age, our teeth and gums do as well. Years of plaque buildup, including the consumption of coffee, tea, or tobacco, can make teeth darken. Ask us about procedures that can combat these issues. Lower flow of saliva is sometimes a side effect from medications. There are simple products that can help this condition. Your fillings are getting older, causing them to weaken or crack. Regular check-ups allow us to stay on top of your existing fillings. Gum disease and root decay can be serious problems with our older patients. Daily cleaning and good nutrition are critical for healthy gums. If your gums become red or begin to bleed or your teeth start to loosen, contact us immediately.
It can not only wreck your social life, it’s often a sign of more serious health problems. Gum disease can be present when you experience chronic bad breath. Major advances in the diagnosis and treatment of bad breath have encouraged Dr. Cherian to add a Fresh Breath Center to the practice. Claim fresh breath again!
For a long time, the silver-mercury amalgam was the standard filling material used by dentists, and many practices still use it. While they are a reasonable restoration, amalgams have certain shortcomings. Metal doesn’t attach well to teeth, so decay can and will eventually leak into the tooth. But the main reason many of our patients are opting for the white bonded fillings has to do with appearance. Many people just don’t want an ugly black plug in their teeth. We offer modern restorations that are a natural-looking white, contain no metals, and will actually strengthen teeth. They also bond tightly with the healthy part of the tooth so there is much less chance of future decay.
Dr. Cherian can custom-fit a nightguard that returns the jaw to a natural position while you sleep. This can prevent wear and damage to your teeth as well as help avoid headaches and jaw pain.
If it’s time for your next cleaning, or if you’re ready to schedule a no-cost/no-obligation consultation, call us now at (609) 448-7100.