Local Dental Care - Cancer Of the Tongue
Paul E Dugas DDS
Appointments: (985) 641-3245
Paul Dugas D.D.S.
Paul E Dugas DDS
59070 Amber St
Slidell, LA 70461
The friendly, caring staff of Paul E Dugas DDS in the Slidell, Louisiana area strive to make you feel comfortable and well-cared for at your dentist appointment. Paul Dugas, D.D.S. is committed to serving you and your family's dental needs, year after year. Come and see what we have to offer in a professional setting where top-notch customer service still matters.
You're unique, and you deserve quality, individualized care. Dr. Paul Dugas believes your dental experience should blend the best of the personal and the professional. At Paul E Dugas DDS in the Slidell, Louisiana area, we take the time to get to know you and understand your dental needs. Dr. Dugas and his staff are dedicated to providing you with top-quality dental care designed exclusively for you.
If you are missing one or more teeth, you'll want to talk with Slidell area dental implant dentist Dr. Paul Dugas about replacements that look and feel as natural as your own teeth. If dentures are causing you problems, you may consider dental implants. Unlike dentures, which can be removed, Dr. Dugas offers dental implants that are permanently anchored into the jaw itself.
Dr. Paul Dugas has a gentle touch and provides comfortable cleaning for a whiter smile. Offering gum disease in the Slidell, Louisiana area, Dr. Dugas assures you that a bright, healthy smile is the result of regular, preventative, professional dental cleanings.
We understand you have a busy life, and "going to the dentist" is one more task you need to check off your ever-growing "to-do" list. That's why here at Paul E Dugas DDS, located in the Slidell, LA area, we offer people hours, not office hours. Dr. Dugas and his staff put your needs first by providing flexible scheduling options to ensure you obtain an appointment that is convenient and workable for you.
A.I.R. Dentalplex
Appointments: (412) 931-7900
Brian Borodaty D.M.D.
A.I.R. Dentalplex
101 Bellevue Rd Suite 101
Pittsburgh, PA 15229-2132
If you are quite anxious about visiting the dentist, A.I.R. Dentalplex offers pre-medication sedation to help you relax before you arrive for your appointment. Once you've arrived at our Pittsburgh area office, the full sedation medication will be administered, and you will wake up to the results you desired - relaxed and with little or no memory of the dental treatment itself.
If you prefer home teeth whitening for convenience, set up an appointment with Brian Borodaty, D.M.D. at his practice in the Pittsburgh, PA area. You'll be able to whiten your teeth in the privacy of your home, and on your own schedule, even while you watch television or read a book. You'll be very pleased with the results of Dr. Borodaty's natural home tooth whitening process.
For natural-looking prosthodontics, Pittsburgh area dentures dentist Brian Borodaty, D.M.D. has extensive experience. Our team uses quality materials and current techniques to deliver the results you want.
We'll assess your situation and design a treatment plan to replace your missing teeth. You'll be able to smile again with confidence and ease.
Did you know that trusted Pittsburgh area TMJ/TMD dentist Brian Borodaty, D.M.D. offers treatment for jaw pain relief? If you're experiencing discomfort when you move your jaw, or you hear clicking and popping when you chew, we want to help.
Our friendly team is happy to answer questions. There's no need to continue to live with pain. Relief is just a phone call away.
Dr. Borodaty is a trusted Pittsburgh area dentist who can custom fit you with a dental mouthguard to protect your teeth and jaws. Your custom dental appliance can also help you avoid soft tissue injuries if you wear orthodontics.
Our skilled team of professionals will make a mouthguard that will let you breathe naturally. You'll have the protection you need while participating in sports and competitions.
Pacifico Dental Care
Appointments: (610) 588-2722
Michael Pacifico D.M.D.
Pacifico Dental Care
48 North 3rd Street
Bangor, PA 18013
Dr. Pacifico provides secure implant dentures in the Bangor area. Implant retained dentures won't slip, and are a long-lasting solution to missing teeth.
You'll talk, eat and smile with more confidence. Your self esteem will return with your new natural-looking teeth.
Have you ever considered natural-looking, permanent dental implants instead of uncomfortable dentures? Incredible recent advances in technology allow Bangor area dental implants dentist Dr. Michael Pacifico to create tooth implants just for you that can be permanently anchored to your jaw. This is a great option to consider if you've had negative experiences with dentures in the past.
Bangor area braces dentist Dr. Michael Pacifico can provide miniature ceramic and removable braces for your child. At Pacifico Dental Care, when we prescribe your child with the treatment of braces, we offer several types of braces for you and your child to choose from.
If you're looking for denture repair in the Bangor area, our team at Pacifico Dental Care offers friendly service. Dr. Pacifico understands the importance of reliable dentures that fit properly.
We'll get your repairs done professionally and quickly. You'll be able to eat and smile again with confidence as soon as possible.
Dr. Michael Pacifico at his Bangor area dental implants practice offers extensive experience restoring your dental implant crown.
Our dedicated team uses state-of-the-art materials and techniques for stability and longevity. You'll enjoy the comfort and confidence of natural-looking teeth.
More Gum Disease Dentists in the Bangor, PA Area Near You
RONALD M COX D.D.S.
115 E COLLEGE ST
STANLEY, NC, 28164
(704) 263-8845
GORDON J ROZNIK DMD
400 S TRYON ST STE M4
CHARLOTTE, NC, 28285
(704) 375-7711
Doctor - Activate Your Free 1stGumDisease Directory Listing
KAYSER CLARK & LEIGHTON PC
102 PONEMAH RD UNIT 2
AMHERST, NH, 3031
(603) 673-7950
PATRICIA LONDON D.D.S.
213 CHURCH ST
CONCORD, NC, 28025
(704) 782-1012
Increasing Gum Around a Tooth with Soft Tissue Grafts
If an individual has gum recession as a result of periodontal disease, or has thin gums that need to be augmented before dental procedures, their dentist may recommend a soft tissue (gum) graft. The purpose of the gum graft is to cover exposed root surfaces and to increase the amount of gum around a tooth. It can be done to improve the esthetics of the gum line, prevent further recession, as preparation for other dental procedures (restorations or orthodontics), or to protect the tooth from root sensitivity and cavities.
A graft is the transplantation of living tissue from one part of the body to another. In the case of a gum graft, the tissue is usually taken from the roof of the mouth and placed on the exposed root surface. In some instances, it may be possible to move gum tissue from a site right next to the root surface or to use tissue donated from a different source. One or several teeth can be treated simultaneously.
Gum grafts have been done since the 1960's with exceptional success. The techniques have changed since then, making the procedures even more predictable, comfortable, and esthetic. Today it is possible to match the texture and color of the gum tissue with minimal scarring.
What to Expect from Periodontal Gum Grafts
Soft tissue (gum) grafts are done in the dentist's office with local anesthesia (lidocaine). After obtaining the donor tissue, it is secured on the recipient site with stitches (sutures) or tissue glue. The donor site (usually the roof of the mouth) may also require stitching, bandages, or tissue glue. Post-surgical discomfort is usually minimal and can be easily managed with commonly available over-the-counter medications such as aspirin, acetaminophen, or ibuprofen. Patients can expect to follow their normal routine the day after oral surgery. The dentist will provide special instructions related to diet, exercise, and medications.
The stitches are usually removed five to ten days after the surgery. Follow-up appointments are scheduled as necessary to evaluate healing and plaque control.
Benefits of Gum Grafts
Soft tissue (gum) grafts are beneficial to help reduce further gum recession and bone loss as well as to help protect the root surface from decay and sensitivity. In addition, a dentist should be consulted about gum grafting procedures if individuals have exposed root surfaces or long-looking teeth that create a cosmetic problem. If a general dentist does not frequently perform soft tissue grafts, he or she may refer the patient to a periodontist who specializes in this technique.
By Laura Minsk, DMD
Risk Factors For Gingivitis and Periodontitis
It is well established that the main cause of gingivitis, or periodontal disease, is bacterial plaque. But not everyone responds the same to the same bacterial infection. There are many factors that can contribute to making someone more or less susceptible to the progression of periodontitis. These factors are called risk factors. They can increase the risk, severity, and speed at which the disease develops. Some risk factors can be modified. If they are, gum disease and tissue destruction can be controlled and maybe even prevented with periodontal treatment.
There are several factors that can put individuals at greater risk for gingivitis or periodontal disease.
1. Poor Oral Hygiene: The bacterial plaque that continuously forms on the teeth is the main cause of periodontal infections. Without bacterial plaque there cannot be periodontitis. But as the amount of plaque increases, so does the risk for the disease. There is a shift in the bacterial population of plaque from one that is compatible with health, to one that is responsible for the disease. The best way to help control or prevent the progression of periodontal diseases is to follow a diligent plaque control program that includes daily brushing and flossing.
2. Crowded Teeth: Crowded teeth can contribute to plaque retention and interfere with oral hygiene. If this becomes a problem, it may be necessary to reshape the teeth or move them to a better position with the use of dental appliances or braces.
3. Poor Fitting Dentures, Fillings, or Crowns: These factors also may contribute to plaque retention and interfere with oral hygiene methods. If this is the case, the restorations may need to be reshaped, polished, or even replaced.
4. Occlusion (the way the teeth bite or come together): The forces created by an unbalanced bite, by clenching, or by grinding of the teeth, can accelerate the progression of bone destruction and periodontal disease. These forces can also contribute to excessive wear of the teeth, fractures, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) problems, or root canal problems. People who clench or grind their teeth may not be conscious of it, but may experience sore jaw muscles, TMJ problems, headaches, and neck or shoulder pain. Most people are more susceptible to clenching or grinding during periods of high stress. These habits can be controlled and treated with specially made dental appliances (night guards), braces, reshaping of the biting surfaces of the teeth, exercises, medications, or a combination of the above.
5. Tobacco: People who smoke or chew tobacco are more likely to have periodontitis. They also are more likely to have a poorer and slower response to periodontal treatment. The risk of acquiring periodontal disease decreases after smoking cessation and former smokers and non-smokers respond the same to treatment from a periodontist. Smoking cessation is beneficial to periodontal and overall health.
6. Poor Nutrition: Although periodontal disease is not caused by nutritional deficiency, a diet low in nutrients can diminish the effectiveness of the body's immune system. This reduces the resistance to infections such as periodontitis. To aid in the body's capacity to fight infections, maintain a well-balanced diet and avoid fad diets that exclude entire food groups and limit nutrients.
7. Stress: Stress reduces the immune response and makes it hard for the body to fight infection. A study has shown that people who are under financial stress and have poor coping ability have a two-fold increase in the incidence of periodontal disease.
8. Pregnancy and Female Hormonal Changes: The hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy, puberty, and menstruation can make the gums more sensitive to bacterial plaque and increase the risk for periodontal disease. Pre-existing periodontal problems can become more severe if plaque is not controlled. So an efficient and consistent plaque control program is essential in maintaining periodontal health through pregnancy and all stages of life.
9. Systemic Diseases: Certain systemic (general body) diseases, such as AIDS and diabetes, may decrease the body's ability to fight infection and can result in more severe periodontal disease. Always keep your dental care provider informed of changes in medical status.
10. Medication: Drugs such as birth control pills, immunosuppressants, anti-depressants, and some heart medications can also increase the risk for periodontal disease. Patients should inform their dental care provider of any changes in the medications that they may be taking.
11. Genetics: Up to 30% of the population may have a gene that is linked with an increased susceptibility to periodontal disease. Although genetics is not modifiable, knowing one's genetic profile puts individuals in a proactive position regarding dental health. Through proper home care, periodontal maintenance visits, modification of known risk factors, and early intervention, individuals have an excellent chance of keeping their teeth for a lifetime.
By Laura Minsk, DMD
