Do you have missing teeth? Are your gums sensitive or swollen? Restore your smile at Herndon Family and Cosmetic Dentistry. Restorative dental care renews the form and function of the smile. With restorative care, we can replace missing teeth, treat gum disease, and address tooth damage. Dr. Mark Jefferies provides restorative dentistry to patients in Herndon, VA. Along with his dental team, Dr. Jefferies works with patients to find the source of their oral health problems and create a custom treatment plan to address their symptoms. Dr. Jefferies understands that dental problems can have a big impact on the way people, eat, speak, and smile. Restorative dental solutions can create long-lasting differences in the health and comfort of each patient. Q&A: Restorative Dentistry in Herndon, VA Do you have questions about restorative dentistry? Read answers to common questions patients have about their restorative dental options: What are the benefits of dental implants? Dental implants are one of the most versatile options for patients with single or multiple missing teeth. Implants consist of a titanium post, abutment, and dental crown. Once implants are healed, they become a permanent part of the smile because they fuse with the jaw bone. Dental implants can also be used to secure a dental bridge or denture in place. Implants feel and look like natural teeth and improve the patient’s oral health, speech, and bite. How do I know I have gum disease? There are several early signs of gum disease, including swollen, red, and bleeding gums. If your gums bleed when you brush and floss your teeth and gums, you may have gingivitis. Also known as gum inflammation, gingivitis is the precursor to gum disease and is easily reversible with routine dental cleanings and a good oral hygiene routine. What are dental crowns made of? Tooth crowns may be made of zirconium, porcelain fused to metal, or porcelain ceramic. We use porcelain ceramic crowns because they easily blend in with the rest of the smile. This porcelain ceramic material is beneficial for teeth in the smile line, or teeth that are visible when you smile. Traditional metal crowns are durable but do not look natural. Are partial dentures and dental bridges the same? Although both partial dentures and dental bridges replace rows of consecutive missing teeth, they can have different uses for the smile. Partial dentures can replace multiple rows of teeth in different areas of the mouth. Dental bridges often replace one or two missing teeth. In addition, a dental bridge is solely the false teeth that fill a gap in a smile. Partials can also include artificial gums for false teeth. Schedule a Dental Consultation Today Do you require restorative dental care? Call Herndon Family and Cosmetic Dentistry today. New patients can call (703) 570-1152 and current patients may call (703) 793-1771. You can also request a dental appointment with us online. Do not hesitate to ask our team any questions about your treatment options or current dental concerns. They will always be glad to assist you.
Do You Know the Signs of Gum Disease?
Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is a common condition that affects half of American adults over age 30. In fact, it’s the leading cause of tooth loss in the developed world! In addition to affecting the teeth, gum disease has been linked to rheumatoid arthritis, pancreatic cancer, stroke, cardiovascular problems, and infection elsewhere in the body. It’s important that you are able to recognize signs of gum disease so you can work to prevent it and keep your smile and body healthy for years to come. What Is Periodontal Disease? The word “periodontal” means “around the tooth.” Periodontal disease occurs when the gums are infected and become inflamed. It starts with bacteria in the mouth, and can end in tooth loss if left untreated. Causes of Periodontal Disease The main cause of periodontal disease is bacteria in the plaque that builds up on teeth. The bacteria in our mouths bond with mucus and other particles to form plaque on teeth. The plaque that isn’t removed by brushing and flossing hardens and forms tartar. To get rid of the bacteria, our immune systems release defense cells that cause areas around the teeth to become inflamed. As our gums swell, they pull away from the teeth, creating small pockets allowing more bacteria to settle in. Other factors that could lead to periodontal disease include poor nutrition, stress, tooth grinding, smoking/tobacco use, or even hormonal changes like puberty, menopause, or pregnancy. Stages Of Periodontal Disease Gingivitis is the first stage of periodontal disease, and many of us already experience this occasionally. It is a mild and reversible form of periodontitis, but it does not always lead to full-on gum disease. Plaque builds up on the teeth and inflames the gums, but there is no bone loss yet. When the infection has reached the underlying bone, the patient is diagnosed with periodontal disease. Gum inflammation creates even bigger pockets for bacteria to settle into, which can eventually reach the bone. Eventually, teeth become loose and fall out. What Are the Symptoms of Periodontal Disease? Gums that bleed easily while brushing and flossing. Swollen or tender gums. Gums that pull away from teeth. Changes in the way teeth fit together upon biting down. Deep pockets between teeth and gums. Loose or shifting teeth. Pus between your teeth and gums. Persistent bad breath or a constant bad taste in the mouth. New spaces developing between your teeth. When You Should See a Dentist Periodontal disease can be painless; some people don’t even know they have it. A periodontal evaluation with x-rays is the best way to find and treat gum disease. If it’s been a while since you’ve been to the dentist, or if you are experiencing any of the symptoms above, see your dentist soon. Taking care of your periodontal disease now not only improves the health of your mouth but can also have a have a positive effect on your overall health. Gum Disease Treatment in Herndon, VA Dr. Mark Jefferies provides comprehensive preventative dentistry for the whole family. Regular cleanings and check-ups combined with minimally invasive treatments will protect your teeth and gums from periodontal disease for years to come. Your bleeding gums might be a sign of periodontal disease. Don’t wait to find out! Contact us online today to schedule an appointment or call (703) 570-1152.
Are Bleeding Gums Normal?
Some patients notice bleeding gums during routine brushing and flossing. If this is the case, bleeding gums are not normal. Bleeding gums is one of the most common signs of gum disease, a bacterial infection of the gums. Early diagnosis and intervention for gum disease can help reduce the risk of complications associated with advanced stage gum diseases, such as tooth loss, bone loss, and receding gums. Dr. Mark Jefferies offers routine screenings for gum disease and a full range of periodontal therapy services to address the varying stages of gingivitis and periodontitis. What Causes Bleeding Gums? There are many reasons you may experience bleeding gums. Here on the common reasons for bleeding gums: Gum Disease Regular brushing and flossing are imperative to maintaining healthy teeth and gums. When you don’t brush or floss your teeth, you accumulate plaque. The bacteria from the plaque can cause inflammation and irritation in the gums, which leads to gingivitis. Gingivitis is the earliest stage of gum disease, and one of the most common signs of it is bleeding gums. At the earliest stage, gum disease is reversible. Our team can work with you to reverse the effects of gingivitis with a personalized treatment plan. Keep in mind, the longer that bleeding gums are left untreated, the more likely the infection will get worse. As gum disease progresses, your gums may recede, which may allow bacteria to make its way to the tissue below the gum line. If this occurs, it can increase your risk of bone and tooth loss. Medication Certain types of medication can increase your risk of bleeding gums. For example, aspirin, birth control, and blood pressure medication can contribute to bleeding gums. It is important to let our team know about the medicines you are taking so we can determine if that is contributing to your bleeding gums. Pregnancy The hormone in the body changes when you are pregnant. Studies have shown that pregnant women are at an increased risk of developing gingivitis. If you are pregnant and notice any changes in your dental health like bleeding gums, please be sure to contact our team. Dr. Jefferies can work with you to help improve your dental health and discuss ways to keep your teeth and gums healthy while pregnant. When Should I Visit The Dentist For Bleeding Gums? It is important to visit the dentist at least twice a year for a routine dental exam, screening, and professional dental cleaning. However, if you notice any changes in your dental health, you may want to schedule an appointment with our team. Dr. Jefferies is an experienced dentist in Herndon, VA who is committed to helping you achieve healthier teeth and gums. He can work with you to restore health and balance to your smile. To schedule an appointment, you can call (703) 570-1152 or request an appointment online.