Admin - North Houston Periodontics & Dental Implants

Should I Brush or Floss First?

November 4, 2022 by Admin

Creating an oral hygiene routine at home is important to help maintain your oral health and keep your teeth and gums feeling great. Brushing and flossing each day is extremely important, and the order in which you do these two items is a common question. Many wonder which way gives the most benefit.

Is Brushing First Better?

Brushing your teeth at least twice a day is a key part of keeping your teeth and gums healthy. Brushingcleans yourteeth and removes plaque,as well as prevents cavities from developing. Brushing is not theonly thingyou need to do to keep your oral hygiene in check. Flossing is another integral part of oralhygiene. The order in which you do these two items is a popular discussion.

Brushing does allow the toothpaste with fluoride to get in-between the teeth and help lift residualplaque when you floss after brushing. Studies show that flossing first is better, and is a more efficientway to keep up with your oral health. Flossing last also leaves particles in your mouth if you do notremember to rinse afterwards.

What About Flossing First?

Flossing first has many benefits, and recent studies now recommend that you should floss first before you brush. Flossing first helps to loosen that plaque buildup, as well as increase fluoride concentration between your teeth. When you brush after flossing the brushing then helps to remove those particles that are released from flossing. This helps to reduce plaque in your mouth, and lowers your risk of developing gum disease. Brushing after you floss helps the toothpaste to really do its job to protect your teeth from decay.

Benefits of Flossing and Brushing

Prevents gum disease that is caused by poor dental hygiene or not brushing and flossing properly. Routine dental cleanings in our office are important and we recommend dental cleanings at least twice a year.
Removes plaque that is the leading cause of gum disease. If you floss and brush your teeth regularly plaque does not have the chance to harden on your teeth.
Prevents decay and costly dental procedures. If you take care of your oral health you can avoid serious complications or dental procedures in the future.

Overall, you can keep your teeth and gums healthy by practicinggood oral hygiene habits. Cavities andgum disease are preventable, and remembering to floss and brush each day will help keep your mouthfeeling great. Visiting our office regularly for your cleaning and exam is another way to stay on top of cyour oral health.

During your dental exam our team will discuss any hygiene recommendations, and review how to keep up with your oral hygiene care at home. Taking care of your oral health is important, and your health is our priority.

If you are interested in finding out more about how to improve your oral hygiene routine at home, or to schedule your next dental exam, contact our office and our staff will be happy to assist you.

What Can I Do at Home To Prevent Gum Disease?

October 20, 2022 by Admin

Preventing inflammation around your gums starts with your at home oral hygiene routine. Gum diseaseor periodontitis is a gum infection that damages the soft tissue,and can destroythebone if not treatedpromptly. Gum disease is a slow process and can advance in same cases before you notice there is anissue. The advancement process is typically painless,and attendingyour regular examsin our office iskey to making sure your gums and teeth are healthy.

Daily oral hygiene at home helps to keep your teeth and mouth healthy and can prevent gum diseasefrom developing. Brushing and flossing daily are ways to keep your mouth looking and feeling great,andalso minimizes your risk for developing gum disease.

When patients visit our office we discuss your oral health,and recommend changes to your oral careroutine at home if we see a need for improvement. Our highly trained staff can develop a personalizedcare program for you to follow at home.

At Home Oral H ygiene Recommendations To Prevent Gum Disease

Attend regular dental exams to remove plaquebuildup and tartar, as well as to detect any signsof gum disease early.
Brush for two to three minutes at least twice a day,and make sure to brush along thegum line.
Use a toothpaste with fluoride to help prevent cavities.
Floss daily to remove plaque fromin-betweenyour teeth and places where your toothbrush cannot reach.
Use a mouth rinse that can help to rinse away and reduce plaque buildup.
Avoid any tobaccoproducts which can cause gum disease.
Follow a healthy diet and avoid foods and drinks with high levels of sugar.
Exercise regularly
Make sure to have cavities and any other issues fixed as soon as possible.

Part of our cleaning and exam process is to perform a detailed evaluation of the gums. We will discussboth the health of your teeth and gums, and recommend treatment if necessary. Your oral health is ourpriority, and our staff is here to help keep your teeth and gums healthy.

Looking T o Make an Appoin tment?

If you are interested in making an appointment, or notice an issue with the health of your gums such asbleeding or irritation we encourage you to visit our office. Prevention is important, and treatingsymptoms early can help avoid more serious issues in the future.

To schedule your appointment please contact our office, and our friendly staff will be happy to assistyou.

WhatAre My Options if I Have Receding Gums?

October 20, 2022 by Admin

Inflammation around your gums may indicate you have gum recession and need to see a periodontist.Gum recession should always be treated to avoid further complications such as tooth loss. Recedinggums arecaused by periodontal disease,and this is when the tissue wears away and leaves more of yourteeth exposed.Visiting our office regularly and practicing good oral hygiene habits at home can help tostay on top of gum issues and prevent them from getting worse.

Symptoms of Receding Gums

Red or swollen gums
Bad breath
Bad taste in your mouth
Loose teeth
Pain or tenderness in or around your gums or mouth

What Can Cause Gum Recession?

Gum recession can be caused by many things. The most common cause of gum recession is periodontaldisease. Other common causes can include poor oral hygiene, age, medical conditions, injury, andtobacco use.

What Treatment Options Are Available?

Attending your regular dental exams is important,and part of these visits include monitoring andchecking your gum tissue. Our team will take a good look at your gums and devise a treatment plan.Depending on how severe the gums are will determine the course of treatment.

If your gums look infected, we offer scaling and root planing which is a deep cleaning treatmentto helpwith periodontal pockets. This treatment removes and cleans the plaque on the tooth and root surfaces.Scaling and root planinghelps to shrink periodontal pockets, remove bacteria,and heal the gum tissue.This treatment alsoprevents further infectionand keeps your gums looking and feeling great. After thistreatment gums should recede less and be restored.

At home oral hygiene is very important to keeping your gums healthy. We will talk to you about thetooth brush you are using and discuss your oral hygiene habits. We may recommend a daily rinse to helprinse away plaque.

Interested i n Finding Out More?

If you are interested in finding out more about treatments for receding gums, we encourage you toschedule a consultation in our office. This will give our team the opportunity to evaluate your gums anddiscuss any questions or concerns. Our team is here to help get you on the road to healthier gums!

To schedule your appointment please contact our office, and our friendly staff will be happy to assistyou!

How to Choose the Right Dentist for Dental Implants?

February 28, 2022 by Admin

When you decide to invest in dental implants to restore your smile, you want to make sure you find the perfect dentist. Quality dentistry you can count on is important to ensure your implant procedure is successful.

There are many things to look out for when choosing a dentist in your area. Dentists should have proper training and years of experience in implant dentistry. It is important that the dentist you choose is heavily involved in continuing education. This ensures they are staying on top of the latest trends and techniques available in the dental industry. If you need a source or list of dentists in your area, you can visit the American Academy of Implant Dentistry website to locate an implant expert.

What Are Tips To Consider When Choosing My Dentist?

Complete research on your own and find out what services your dentist offers, and how many years they have been treating patients.
Check on their continuing education experience to ensure your dentist is providing the highest level of care and technology to all patients.
Research or ask questions about the dentist’s experience and background on implant dentistry, and how many patients they have treated successfully.
Ask friends or neighbors that have had implant surgery, and have them provide feedback on the procedure and recovery process.
Look for a full-service practice that can handle the entire process from start to finish. You don’t want to have to visit multiple offices when you are going through an extensive process like dental implant surgery.
Talk to your dentist about sedation options and what may work best for you. It is important to feel comfortable about the dental implant process, and your dentist should want to help choose the best option for sedation that works for you.

At North Houston Periodontics & Dental Implants, we are a full-service practice, and our passion is restoring smiles for our patients. If you are unhappy with your smile, or have broken or cracked teeth, our team can help. We have years of experience in implant dentistry, and we love to help patients restore their confidence with a brand-new smile.

Don’t live with a smile that causes you to be embarrassed around others. Implants offer a permanent solution, and can last a lifetime if cared for properly. Dental implants are durable, and can function just like our natural teeth.

Looking for a Dental Implant Specialist in Your Area?

If you are interested in finding out more about how dental implants can benefit you, contact North Houston Periodontics & Dental Implants today. Our staff would love to welcome you to our practice, and help you achieve the smile of your dreams. Dental implants are a big decision and can be life changing. Let our doctors get you started with our dental implant consultation process today.

To schedule your appointment, contact North Houston Periodontics & Dental Implants, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you.

Is Popcorn Bad to Eat if you have Dental Implants?

March 1, 2022February 28, 2022 by Admin

Dental implants are an investment, and after you go through the process and finally have that perfect smile, it is important to care for them properly. Watching what you eat or chew on helps to ensure your implants stay in great condition. There are certain foods patients should avoid with their dental implants to help keep them looking and feeling great.

At North Houston Periodontics, we specialize in implant dentistry, and our team is trained to work with each patient throughout the entire process. We prepare our patients on what to expect, and discuss how to care for your implants at home. Practicing good oral hygiene is always key to ensure you keep your implants clean and free of harmful plaque.

Can I Eat Popcorn?

Popcorn is one of the foods that should be avoided if you have dental implants. Any food that is a seed can be dangerous, and can cause you to have potential issues. Popcorn specifically can get stuck between the teeth and gums, and damage your implants. If you chew on an un-popped kernel, this can put stress on your implant, and can cause the implant to become weak or unstable. Implants are durable, but in some cases, they can break or crack if they are not treated with care.

We always recommend patients treat their implants just like their natural teeth. Keeping your dental implants clean and healthy can avoid unnecessary or painful trips to the dentist. After investing in your smile, you want to avoid the need for repair. There are plenty of snacks and foods that are softer, and are safe to eat with dental implants.

Looking to Schedule an Appointment?

If you are interested in finding out more about dental implants and how they can benefit you, contact North Houston Periodontics today to schedule your appointment. Our office is equipped with state-of-the-art technology, and we provide a comfortable and welcoming environment for our patients.

If you are unhappy with your smile, and are looking to restore the functionality of your teeth and mouth, North Houston Periodontics can help. Let us get you started with the process towards a smile you can be confident to show others.

To schedule your appointment, contact North Houston Periodontics, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you.

How Does Laser Dentistry Treat Gum Disease?

January 30, 2022 by Admin

Laser dentistry is used for periodontal treatment when a patient has inflammation in the mouth or gums. Laser treatment is an effective way to battle gum disease and provides exceptional results. Gum disease is one of the most common diseases in patients, and if left untreated it can lead to receding gums or tooth loss.

Laser periodontal treatment removes the bacteria and tissue that is inflamed and infected. This procedure is gentle and leaves your gums intact. Laser treatment is minimally invasive, and is extremely successful in restoring the gums. This treatment helps to promote gum reattachment and promotes bone growth. In some cases, laser therapy has reversed gum disease.

Laser treatment is quick with a minimal recovery. The laser minimizes any bleeding, and helps to clot exposed blood vessels. This laser actually helps to make the treated area stronger, and healing time is faster.

How Does Laser Treatment Work?

During this treatment a laser is used to target the infected areas and remove any infected tissue and bacteria. The laser is extremely precise and does not compromise or reduce gum tissue. Once the infected are is removed, root scaling is done to scrape off any plaque that has built up around the gum line or roots of the teeth. We then smooth any rough areas that are prone to catching bacteria to prevent further infection.

Common Signs That Indicate You May Need Periodontal Laser Treatment

Tender, swollen or bleeding gums
Persistent bad breath
Pus surround gums or teeth
Gums that seem to be receding or moving away from the tooth

How Can I Schedule an Appointment?

Scheduling an appointment is your first step towards healthier gums. Our team will evaluate your mouth and teeth, and determine the proper treatment needed. Leaving swollen or infected gums untreated can cause serious issues. We encourage patients that are concerned with their gum health to schedule a visit in our office. We care about our patients and always provide the highest level of care.

To schedule your appointment contact our office, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you.

How to Get Rid of Swollen Gums?

January 26, 2022January 15, 2022 by Admin

Our gums are sensitive, and if we do not practice good oral hygiene habits, they can become inflamed, painful, or infected. Gums are important and help to hold our teeth in place and protect our tooth roots. If gums are not taken care of, bacteria can spread and cause gum disease or other health problems. If you are experiencing swollen or tender gums, we encourage you to contact our office. Gum problems should be addressed promptly to avoid infection or other serious complications.

Why Are My Gums Swollen?

Swollen gums are a response after damage or an injury. If bacteria enter the gums this causes the gums to swell, and try and protect your body from the harmful bacteria. Swollen gums can be caused by your diet, dry mouth, poor oral hygiene, or dental appliances that may irritate the area. Symptoms of problems with your gums include bleeding, receding gums, pain, or swelling. If you experience any of these symptoms you must be seen right away to help stop the deterioration of your gums, and avoid infection.

What Can I Do at Home To Help Treat Swollen Gums?

There are many home remedies to help treat swollen or inflamed gums. Rinsing with salt water, tea tree oil, or aloe vera as a mouthwash can help to fight inflammation and heal your gums. Other home remedies include eating foods high in Vitamin D, using a warm or cold compress, or placing black tea bags on the inflamed area.

Home remedies are never a cure for swollen gums, but these remedies can help treat the problem. Anyone with swollen gums should always seek medical advice. The combination of medical treatment and home remedies can get you feeling better quickly. Treating swollen gums or gum disease takes time, and this depends on the severity of the inflammation or infection. Oral hygiene habits at home are extremely important in battling swollen gums and gum disease.

What Professional Treatments Are Available?

There are professional treatments for swollen gums, and depending on the severity of the inflammation will determine which treatment is best. If you have mild to moderate gum inflammation this can be treated with a thorough cleaning and improved oral hygiene habits at home. For severe cases, we offer treatments such as root planing and scaling, laser treatment, or pocket reduction surgery. These treatments can clean and remove the bacteria and tartar from underneath the gums, and repair gums from recession. If you have an infection or abscess our team can help determine the location of the infection, and provide you with antibiotics to help clear up the infection.

Continue to practice good habits at home with brushing and flossing to help heal your gums faster. Drink plenty of water, and get a proper amount of sleep to help your body fight off any bacteria. Avoid foods and drinks high in sugar, and follow a healthy lifestyle with proper exercise daily.

Interested in Finding Out More About Treatment for Swollen Gums?

If you have swollen gums and are in need of treatment, please contact North Houston Periodontics. Our doctors have helped many patients treat swollen gums, and seeking professional help can avoid serious complications. We create a welcoming and calm environment and always provide the highest level of care.

Take that first step towards healthy gums, by calling North Houston Periodontics today to schedule your appointment.

How to get Rid of a Gum Infection Without Using Antibiotics?

December 30, 2021 by Admin

When you have gum disease the first thing you probably think of is what home remedies you can try before seeing your dentist. Home remedies are a cheap and very effective way to treat gum disease, and catching it at the early stages can help. Practicing good oral hygiene habits is the first step towards treating a gum infection. Anytime you are experiencing extreme pain, sensitivity, bleeding, or have a fever you should always seek medical advice, and be seen in our office.

What Can I Do At Home?

Brush at least twice each day.
Rinse after each meal.
Floss daily.
Make sure you are using a proper toothbrush with soft bristles.
Use a natural mouthwash daily.
Attend your regular exams and cleaning appointments at your dentist.
Avoid foods and drinks high in sugar.

Can I Use Salt Water to Help a Gum Infection?

Salt water is extremely effective in helping to heal gums affected by gum disease. Salt water can treat inflammation, ease pain, and reduce bacteria in the mouth and gums. Rinsing with salt water 2-3 times a day can be effective in battling a gum infection. Be careful to not rinse with salt water too often, as this can cause the salt to affect your tooth enamel. Other homemade mouthwash combinations can also be effective, such as lemongrass and oil, aloe vera, and tea tree oil.

Salt water can help to treat a gum infection, but this is not a cure. If you are experiencing symptoms of a gum infection you should contact our office and be seen as soon as possible. Antibiotics may have to be used to help clear up the infection and stop any further damage to your gums or jaw. Home remedies combined with professional help can clear up a gum infection, and get you on the road to recovery quickly.

Interested in Learning More?

If you think you have a gum infection or are experiencing symptoms that include bleeding, swollen gums, or fever, we encourage you to contact our office to be seen. Our staff will ensure you are seen promptly, help treat the infection and get you feeling better quickly. Infections can become serious and cause other health complications if they are not treated. At North Houston Periodontics & Dental Implants we treat our patients like family and always provide the very best service. Our doctors have years of experience in treating gum infections and love to help patients restore their smiles.

Contact North Houston Periodontics & Dental Implants today to schedule your appointment, and take that first step towards feeling better!

Can Salt Water Heal a Gum Infection?

December 27, 2021December 15, 2021 by Admin

Gum disease is common in many adults, and today we have numerous choices to pick from on the store shelves to help maintain our oral health. Even with using these products and rinses to rid away bacteria and plaque, we still develop gum disease. Salt water is one of the oldest treatments and home remedies for any infection and many still use this method to treat gum infections.

What Is Gum Disease?

Gum disease is the build-up of bacteria and plaque underneath the gums. The bacteria grow if not treated, and over time you develop gum disease or periodontal disease. Gum disease should always be addressed promptly because it can lead to other complications such as tooth loss, gum recession, jawbone issues, and overall health conditions such as cardiovascular problems.

What Symptoms Indicate I May Have Gum Disease?

Bleeding, inflamed, or tender gums.
Gums that recede or pull away from your teeth.
Persistent bad breath.
Sensitivity to hot and cold
Teeth are loose or shifting out of place.

How Can Salt Water Help?

To help fight gum disease you can use a salt water rinse at home every day. Mix a teaspoon of salt water into a small glass of warm water. Do not swallow the water, but gently rinse the water around the mouth for between 15-30 seconds. When you are done spit the water out and repeat the process at least 3 times a day. Never rinse more than a few times a day. Over rinsing can cause the salt to damage the enamel on your teeth.

Salt water can help to remove the plaque and bacteria from your teeth and gums. Salt has healing properties that can treat and heal inflamed or swollen gums caused by gum disease. Even though salt water is extremely effective in helping to treat gum disease, salt water cannot cure gum disease. If you feel you have symptoms of gum disease, we recommend contacting our office and between professional help, and good oral hygiene habits, we can help you treat your gum disease quickly.

Do You Have Symptoms of Gum Disease and Want To Learn More?

If you have symptoms of gum disease and would like to learn more about treatments available, please contact North Houston Periodontics & Dental Implants. Our doctors have years of experience in periodontics and have helped many patients with gum disease. Gum disease should always be addressed promptly to avoid complications. Let our team help you restore your smile today!

To schedule an appointment with us, contact North Houston Periodontics & Dental Implants, and our team will be happy to assist you.

Why Would I Need a Gum Biopsy?

November 30, 2021November 15, 2021 by Admin

Keeping your gums healthy is important, and issues such as gum disease or oral cancer can affect not only your dental health, but your overall health if left untreated. Attending your regular appointments in our office can help to get in front of any gum issues before they become serious. Our staff will clean and polish your teeth, and we will also evaluate your gum health, and perform an oral cancer screening.

If during your appointment our team notices a lesion or area of concern, we may recommend a gum biopsy. A gum biopsy is when we test an infected area to identify what may have caused the abnormal tissue to develop. Gum biopsies are very important, and can help identify the issue or stage of cancer that requires treatment.

Symptoms of Gum Cancer

Bleeding gums
Thick or unusual looking gum tissue
Red, white, or dark patches on the gums
Gumline cracks

How Does a Gum Biopsy Work?

During a gum biopsy we remove a sample piece of tissue from you gums or jaw to determine the cause of the abnormality. Local anesthesia is used, and the procedure itself is minimally invasive. If the area is hard to reach, we may recommend general anesthesia, but this is rarely needed. A pathologist can take a look at the tissue sample, determine the cause, and check if the tissue is cancerous.

What Can I Expect After My Gum Biopsy?

After the biopsy is complete your gums may still feel numb from the anesthesia. This should wear off after a few hours. Patients may feel tender or sore near the area where the biopsy took place. This should subside after a few days. If you notice prolonged pain or swelling, we recommend contacting our office right away, so we can take a look at the area. Risk for infection is rare, and patients can return to normal activity after a day or two.

Gum biopsies can save lives, and help us treat the issue promptly before it becomes worse. Patients can reach out to their insurance provider to review their benefits, and check to see what coverage is available should you need a gum biopsy.

Ready To Find Out More?

If you have an area of concern, or are due for your regular dental exam and cleaning, contact North Houston Periodontics & Dental Implants. Our doctors have years of experience in periodontics and treating gum disease, and love to help our patients. We always put your oral health first, and our passion is to help you keep your teeth and mouth healthy. Never hesitate to contact our office if you feel you have an issue or are in pain. Gum issues that are not treated can progress, and complications can occur if they are not treated promptly.

To schedule your appointment, contact North Houston Periodontics & Dental Implants, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you!