Fix Sensitive, Bleeding Gums with Periodontal Therapy

Feb 26, 2024

Gum Disease Therapy | Coraopolis, PA Dentist

Are your gums giving you trouble? Do they look redder and puffier than usual? Are they bleeding when you brush or floss? Well, hold on to your toothbrushes because we've got some crucial information for you. You might just be dealing with gum disease, and trust us, you don't want to ignore it! Keep reading to discover the symptoms, causes, and how our dental superheroes can save your smile with Periodontal Therapy.


Symptoms of Gum Disease

First things first, let's talk about the red flags that should set off your dental alarm bells. Here are some telltale signs that you might be dealing with gum disease:


  • Bleeding Gums: Healthy gums don't bleed when you brush or floss, but if yours are resembling a horror movie scene, it's time to pay attention.
  • Red, Swollen Gums: Is your smile looking more like a pouty emoji? Swollen and red gums are classic signs of trouble.
  • Gum Recession: If your gums are playing hide-and-seek with your teeth, it's time to uncover the truth about gum disease.
  • Chronic Bad Breath: Are you constantly battling bad breath, no matter how much you brush or gargle? Gum disease might be the culprit.
  • Sensitive or Loose Teeth: Tooth sensitivity or wiggly teeth are never a good sign. Gum disease could be behind these issues.
  • Jaw Bone Loss: In severe cases, gum disease can lead to jaw bone loss, which can affect your facial structure and bite.


Now that you know the warning signs, don't let fear hold you back! Gum disease is treatable, and we're here to help.


What Causes Gum Disease?

Let's dive into the nitty-gritty of how gum disease takes root in your mouth. It all starts with the buildup of bacterial plaque and tartar on your teeth. As these unwelcome guests accumulate, they infect your gum tissues, causing irritation, soreness, and swelling. The result? Gums that bleed with the slightest touch of your toothbrush or floss.


But here's the kicker: gum disease is a sneaky foe. It's progressive, meaning it won't just pack its bags and leave on its own. Left untreated, those pesky bacteria will keep wreaking havoc on your gum tissue and even start chipping away at your bone structure. This can ultimately lead to the dreaded scenario of tooth loss. Yikes!


Treating Gum Disease with Periodontal Therapy

Now, you might be thinking, "What can I do to save my gums and teeth?" Well, we've got the answers! Our skilled dentist is armed with an arsenal of treatment options to combat gum disease effectively. The key is to act swiftly, so let's explore the two main categories of periodontal therapy:


Non-Surgical Treatment

Imagine this as a deep cleanse for your teeth and gums. Our non-surgical periodontal therapy aims to halt gum disease in its tracks before it can cause more havoc. Here's what it entails:


  • Dental Scaling: This process involves removing the plaque, tartar, and bacteria lurking above and below your gumline. It's like sending those intruders packing!
  • Root Planing: Think of this as smoothing out the rough terrain on your teeth's surface. By doing so, we make it less inviting for bacteria to set up camp and wreak havoc.


By undergoing these non-surgical treatments, you're taking the first step towards healthier gums and teeth.


Surgical Treatment

In some cases, gum disease may have advanced to a stage where surgical intervention is necessary. But don't worry; our team is well-equipped to handle it. Here's a glimpse of what you might encounter:


  • Pocket Reduction (Osseous) Surgery: When gum disease has dug its heels in deep, this surgery becomes the superhero cape. It involves removing the diseased tissue and performing a deep clean below the gumline. By doing so, we create an environment where your gums can reattach to your teeth, restoring a healthier smile.


The goal of these surgical treatments is to halt the progression of gum disease, prevent further damage, and give your gums the chance to heal.


Schedule Your Periodontal Therapy Consultation Today!

The clock is ticking, and your gums are calling out for help. Don't let gum disease steal your smile, one tooth at a time. The sooner you take action, the better the chances of saving your teeth and ensuring your oral health stays on the right track.


So, what are you waiting for? Schedule your periodontal therapy consultation with our experienced dentist today! Your gums will thank you, and your smile will shine brighter than ever before.


Woman at dentist with mouth open | dental implants in Coraopolis PA

Your Guide for Dental Implants

26 Feb, 2024
Robinson Township Smiles discusses different types of dental implants. Find the right solution for you. Visit us in Coraopolis, PA.

BONDING VS. VENEERS: WHAT’S RIGHT FOR ME?

By Ryan Rupert • 08 Jan, 2024
Cosmetic dental procedures are more advanced and efficient today than ever before. Technology has progressed to give us bright, healthy smiles with safe and comfortable procedures and techniques. If you have chipped, cracked, irregular or discolored teeth, there are solutions for you.  When it comes to giving your teeth a regular shape and a more pleasant appearance, cosmetic bonding and porcelain veneers are two main choices. Let’s see how they compare. What Is Cosmetic Dental Bonding? Cosmetic bonding in dentistry means applying a dental bonding composite to your teeth in order to repair small defects caused by trauma, injuries, decay, or simply irregularities in the way your natural teeth look. Bonding is cheaper than veneers and not so invasive, as the dentist doesn’t have to modify the structure of your natural teeth before applying the bonding. As long as your teeth are free from any decay or cavities, bonding can simply be applied on their surface, creating volume where it’s missing, covering cracks and chips, and so on. What Are Dental Veneers? Veneers , on the other hand, are a permanent solution. They are thin porcelain wafers that are bonded to your natural teeth after the dentist removes a thin layer of your enamel. Because of this step, getting veneers is irreversible and, even if your veneers get damaged or you want to change them, you will have to get new ones for the rest of your life. But, compared to dental bonding, veneers are much more durable and have a long life span, of 10 to 15 years. They will not become discolored and they won’t break easily, giving your smile a stunning appearance. Which One Is Right for You? Choosing between the two cosmetic procedures depends a lot on your needs, the result you want to achieve, your budget, and other factors. Your dentist can help you decide by explaining everything you need to take into account, what steps each procedure has, and what to expect afterward. 3D simulations can be created to give you a clear idea of what you would look like after getting veneers. Bonding is quite flexible and a talented dentist will shape the bonding to fit your tooth structure and the rest of your appearance perfectly and naturally. Book an Appointment Today! Improving the appearance of your teeth can greatly improve how you feel about yourself. But, you need a team of talented professionals to get great results. If you are interested in getting cosmetic dental treatment, please contact us to book an appointment with Dr. Ryan Rupert and his team at Robinson Township Smiles . They will guide you along the way and respond to your real needs and possibilities. You can book an appointment on the website, by calling us or by visiting our office in Coraopolis, PA.

IMPLANT VS. CROWN: WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE?

By Ryan Rupert • 08 Jan, 2024
Restorative dentistry is any dental treatment or procedure that fixes damaged or missing teeth. Two of the most common procedures in dental restoration work are dental implants and dental crowns. Many patients are unsure what the differences are, and might postpone treatment because of this, or indecision. We will further explain the main differences between a dental implant and a dental crown. However, the best advice anyone can get is by seeing a dentist and talking about their own unique case. Dental Crowns Dental crowns are artificial caps that are placed on top of an existing tooth, or supported by the teeth on the side. They fix extensive damage, like broken or cracked teeth, and can be used to protect a tooth that has had a root canal, or to complete a dental implant restoration. Dental crowns look just like a natural tooth, and are made to match the color and shape of the other teeth. They cost significantly less than an implant, but rely on an existing tooth for support. If you are getting a crown on a natural tooth, the enamel will be filed down in order to fit the crown. If the tooth damage is extensive, this saves the tooth, but if you are only repairing small flaws, you should consider bonding or veneers instead of a crown. Dental Implants A dental implant consists of a metal screw that is inserted in the jaw bone and a crown (which we already defined as an artificial tooth). Depending on the severity of the case, and whether you need a bone graft or not, the process can last from 4 to 6 months, or even more. While being more expensive and taking more time until the final result, dental implants are permanent solutions and, depending on your age, can be a better financial investment as well. This is because crowns will have to be replaced every 10-15 years while implants can last 25 years or more. Dental implants also promote jaw bone health and keep your whole mouth healthy. Which One Should You Get? The best decision for you will depend on the type of problem you have, the budget and dental coverage you have, your medical history, and other factors. It’s best to be seen by a dentist with experience doing both procedures, who can help you make the best decision for your health and lifestyle. Book an Appointment If you have damaged or missing teeth, or any other dental problem, Dr. Ryan Rupert and his team of experts at Robinson Township Smiles can assess the case and decide with you what the best course of action is. We will discuss every step with you in detail, and find solutions to fit your budget, schedule and other needs.  Contact us and book an appointment or ask any questions, we are ready to welcome you at our dental office in Oakdale, PA.

ARE VENEERS PERMANENT?

By Ryan Rupert • 08 Jan, 2024
Veneers are a popular solution for people looking to enhance the look of their smile. However, there are a lot of misunderstandings about the procedure, and it’s important to understand exactly what you might be getting yourself into. If you’re interested in getting veneers, you are most likely concerned with their lifespan. A simple description of this type of treatment will just claim that they are permanent. However, the answer is a bit more complicated than that. Robinson Township Smiles has prepared a short guide to help you understand veneers and how long they actually last. Veneers Are a Permanent Procedure Veneers are a type of dental prosthetic that gets bonded to the natural surface of your teeth. To make sure they bond properly the dentist will shave a thin layer of the enamel to create a rough surface texture, then apply the veneers on top. Unlike other tissues of the human body, enamel does not regenerate or grow back. As a result, getting veneers is a permanent procedure because if you want to take them off or they break, you will either need a new pair or opt for another dental cosmetic procedure. You will not be able to go back to your natural teeth. The layer that will be shaved is not very thick, and it’s even thinner with Lumineers, so the procedure will not affect your oral health negatively. How Long Do Veneers Last? Veneers are extremely durable and can last for a long time, even as much as 10 years or more. However, you should know that veneers are not indestructible, and their average lifespan is heavily influenced by a number of factors, such as nutrition, oral health habits, and even some lifestyle choices. But with the right care, you can enjoy your veneers for a long time. Here are some tips on how to properly take care of your veneers:  Brush your teeth at least 2 times a day, preferably after every meal; Drink plenty of water to cleanse the mouth of food particles; Avoid highly staining foods; Don’t grind your teeth and be mindful when eating tough foods; See your dentist regularly for check-ups. How to Find Out If Veneers Are Right for You Veneers are a great option to address several cosmetic issues with teeth, from discoloration to stains, gaps, and more. However, the only way to know for sure if veneers are right for you is to talk to a dentist. You will need to sit through a consultation so that the dentist can inspect your current oral health and determine whether veneers or another cosmetic procedure suits you. Robinson Township Smiles can help you make an informed decision and provide you with the best dental services that will help you achieve the smile you deserve! To get started, book an appointment with Dr. Ryan Rupert today!
Share by: