The Dangers of Plaque

The dangers of plaque

The dangers of plaque

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The Silent Killer: The Dangers of Plaque

You may have heard about the importance of brushing and flossing daily to maintain good oral health. But why is it so crucial to have a clean and healthy mouth? The answer is plaque, the silent killer of dental health. Plaque is a sticky, colorless film of bacteria that forms on your teeth and gums. If left untreated, plaque can lead to a wide range of serious dental issues, from gum disease to tooth loss. In this blog post, we will discuss the dangers of plaque and how to prevent it from wreaking havoc on your oral health.

What is plaque, and how does it form?

As mentioned earlier, plaque is a film of bacteria that develops on your teeth and gums. When you eat or drink sugary or starchy foods, the bacteria in your mouth feed on the leftovers, producing harmful acids that attack the enamel of your teeth. Over time, the acid breaks down the enamel, creating tiny holes in your teeth known as cavities. Plaque also causes inflammation of the gums, leading to gingivitis and potentially more severe gum disease.

The connection between plaque and gum disease

Gum disease is a common dental ailment that occurs when plaque builds up along the gum line, causing irritation and inflammation. Advanced gum disease, known as periodontitis, can lead to tooth loss and severe denture problems. The relationship between plaque and gum disease is symbiotic in that gum disease can advance the buildup of more bacteria, leading to even more dangerous oral health issues.

How to prevent plaque

The best way to prevent plaque buildup is by practicing good oral hygiene. Brushing your teeth twice a day for at least two minutes can help remove plaque and prevent it from forming along your gum line. Flossing and using mouthwash can further aid in removing bacteria that reach places that your toothbrush can’t. Additionally, eating a healthy diet, limiting sugary and starchy foods, and avoiding smoking can help reduce your risk of developing plaque and other dental problems.

The consequences of ignoring plaque buildup

Ignoring plaque buildup can have serious consequences for your oral health. If left untreated, the bacteria buildup can cause inflammation around the gum line, leading to gum disease, cavities, tooth loss, or even bone loss in the jaw. Other consequences may also include the need for dental surgeries, dentures, or other avoidable procedures. All of these can be prevented simply by taking care of your oral hygiene regularly.

Plaque is a severe dental issue that must not be taken lightly. Ignoring it can lead to significant dental consequences that can affect a person’s life in many ways. While plaque is natural, adopting good oral health hygiene practices can help prevent plaque buildup and combat any adverse effects. Most importantly, visiting the dentist regularly for routine check-ups and cleanings can help diagnose potential dental issues early and prevent future complications. So, do not wait until you see the signs of plaque buildup. Contact us to speak to our team at Mableton Family Dentistry about prevention and hygiene practices today.

Signs of a tooth infection

Signs of a tooth infection

Signs of a tooth infection

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Signs of a Tooth Infection: Everything You Need to Know

Do you feel a sudden sharp pain in your mouth? Or is one of your teeth sensitive when you chew or touch it? These could be signs of a tooth infection. Tooth infections can occur for a variety of reasons, and you should not ignore the symptoms. In this blog post, we will discuss the signs of a tooth infection and what you should do if you think you have one. We here at Mableton Family Dentistry, aim to provide you with useful information to keep your smile healthy and beautiful.

Severe toothache

One of the most common symptoms of a tooth infection is a severe toothache. This may occur suddenly or develop over time. The pain may be constant, throbbing or intense, and may be felt deep in the bone or around the tooth. If you have a fever, it may also indicate an infection. If the discomfort lasts more than a day, you should make an appointment with a dentist to avoid complications.

Swollen gums

In some cases, the gums around the tooth may become swollen, red or tender when you touch them. This is a sign that your body is trying to fight an infection in the tooth. Pus can also accumulate around the gumline, causing painful and foul-smelling breath. If your gumline is swollen or inflamed, it may be an indication of gum disease, which could lead to more severe complications if left untreated.

Tooth Sensitivity

If you experience sudden sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, it may be a warning sign that you have a tooth infection. This is especially true when the sensitivity is focused on one particular area of the tooth. When the decay reaches the innermost layer of the tooth, the tooth’s nerves will likely become exposed through the tiny tubules inside the tooth, causing sensitivity.

Pain when eating

Another sign of a tooth infection is pain that increases when you eat or chew food, particularly when you apply pressure on the affected tooth. This pain arises when the bacteria in the infected pulp multiply and spread to the root canals. The bacteria can also spread to the surrounding bone, causing pain and swelling.

Discolored tooth

Lastly, if you have a tooth that has a strange color or appears to be dark or grayish, it may be a sign that you have an infected tooth. This occurs when the bacteria present in the damaged pulp travel through the walls of the tooth and infect the surrounding hard tissues. If you notice an abrupt change in color or hue of the tooth, see a dentist immediately.

In conclusion, a tooth infection is not something you should ignore, and early diagnosis is crucial. If you notice any of the above signs, make an appointment with a dentist as soon as possible. At our dental clinic in Mableton, Georgia, we provide comprehensive dental care for our patients, including emergency appointments for urgent cases. Contact us today if you suspect that you have an oral infection, our professional team will diagnose the problem, provide appropriate treatment and relieve your discomfort. We hope this blog post has provided you with insightful information about tooth infections and motivated you to prioritize regular dental checkups. We look forward to seeing you smile!

What To Expect During a Root Canal

What To Expect During a Root Canal

What To Expect During a Root Canal

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Root Canal Expectations

Root canal treatment is a procedure that involves removing the infected pulp from within the tooth. The procedure might sound daunting, but it’s something that millions of people undergo every year. However, if you have been recommended a root canal treatment for the first time, you might be wondering what to expect during the procedure. If you’re looking for a dentist in Mableton, Georgia who can perform root canal treatments with care and precision, this blog post is for you. In this post, we’ll guide you through what to expect during a root canal treatment so that you can prepare yourself for it.

Before the Treatment

Before the treatment, your dentist will conduct an oral examination to check for signs of infection. They will also take an x-ray to check the position of the infection. Based on the severity of the infection, the dentist will recommend root canal treatment. Before the procedure, the dentist will administer local anesthesia, which will numb the area. This way, you won’t feel anything during the procedure.

The Procedure

During the procedure, the dentist will make an opening in the top of the tooth to access the pulp. Using small instruments, they will remove the infected pulp and shape the root canals. Next, they will clean the root canals and fill them with a rubber-like material known as gutta-percha. Finally, they will seal the opening in the tooth with a filling or crown.

After the Procedure

After the root canal treatment, you might experience some discomfort or pain around the treated tooth. This is normal and can be managed with over-the-counter painkillers. Your dentist might also prescribe antibiotics to prevent infection. You should avoid eating hard or crunchy foods until the tooth heals completely. During the recovery period, you should also avoid smoking and vigorously brushing the treated tooth.

Follow-Up Care

After the root canal treatment, you’ll need to follow up with your dentist for a few visits to ensure that the tooth is healing properly. During these visits, your dentist will take x-rays to check the position of the gutta-percha and ensure that the infection is cleared. After the root canal, your tooth might become weaker over time, which is why your dentist might recommend a crown to protect and strengthen the tooth.

Benefits of Root Canal Treatment

Root canal treatment is a highly effective procedure that can save a tooth that might otherwise need to be extracted. The procedure can also relieve pain and prevent the infection from spreading to other teeth. The benefits of root canal treatment are long-lasting, and by taking good care of your teeth, you can ensure that the treated tooth lasts a lifetime.

Root canal treatment might seem daunting, but with the right dentist and information, it can be a smooth and effective procedure. By following the pre-and-post-procedural instructions provided by your dentist, you can ensure that your root canal treatment is a success. If you’re looking for a root canal dentist in Mableton, Georgia, contact us today at Mableton Family Dentistry to schedule an appointment. We’re committed to providing exceptional dental care to our patients and making the root canal treatment process as smooth and comfortable as possible.

Teeth Grinding: What You Should Know

Teeth Grinding: What You Should Know

Teeth Grinding: What You Should Know

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What You Should Know About Teeth Grinding

Have you ever woken up with a sore jaw or a headache? Or maybe your partner has complained about the sound of your teeth grinding at night. If so, you might be grinding your teeth, also known as bruxism. Teeth grinding can cause a range of dental issues, including tooth sensitivity, cracked or chipped teeth, and even jaw pain. This blog post will discuss everything you need to know about teeth grinding, including the causes, symptoms, and treatments.

Causes of Teeth Grinding

Teeth grinding can be caused by several factors such as anxiety, stress, or sleep disorders. Often, it can be difficult for people to identify the cause of their grinding as it happens while they are asleep. People with an abnormal bite or crooked teeth can also grind their teeth. Additionally, grinding can occur due to side effects from medication.

Symptoms of Teeth Grinding

The most common symptoms of teeth grinding include jaw pain, excessive tooth wear, headache, earache, and facial pain. Some people with bruxism may also experience restless sleep and difficulty opening the mouth. If you suspect you are grinding your teeth, it is essential to visit a dentist near you.

Treatment Options

Dentists can create a custom mouthguard to protect your teeth from grinding. The mouthguard is a custom-fit device that is placed over your teeth while you sleep. It effectively reduces the pressure on your teeth and helps minimize the effects of grinding. Additionally, stress-reducing exercises, physical therapy, and cutting down on caffeine and alcohol can also help reduce grinding. Dentists can also correct the bite of the teeth by moving the teeth to the correct position using Invisalign or traditional braces.

Preventative Measures

It is essential to practice good oral hygiene and maintain regular dental checkups to prevent teeth grinding. Avoiding caffeine, alcohol, and tobacco also helps to reduce the risk of bruxism. Additionally, limiting stress and finding ways to manage your anxiety can make a significant difference. Physical activity or exercise helps to release tension and anxiety, reducing the chances of teeth grinding.

Grinding your teeth isn’t just uncomfortable, but it can also lead to long-lasting dental problems. However, it is preventable and treatable. If you suspect you suffer from bruxism, visit Dr. Mit at Mableton Family Dentistry to explore your treatment options. By taking preventative measures such as practicing good oral hygiene and stress management, you can significantly reduce the risks of teeth grinding. 

Are Dental Savings Plans Worth It?

Are Dental Savings Plans Worth It

Are Dental Savings Plans Worth It?

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Dental Savings Plans – What are they and are they worth it?

Dental savings plans are an alternative to dental insurance. They are not insurance, but a membership plan where you pay an annual fee to get access to discounted dental care from participating dentists. Dental savings plans can be a great way to save money on dental care, but there are a few things you should know before signing up for one.

How do dental savings plans work?

With a dental savings plan, you pay an annual fee to get access to discounted dental care from participating dentists near you. Most plans offer discounts of 10-60% off of the regular cost of dental procedures. You can usually sign up for a plan at any time, and there is no waiting period for most procedures.

What procedures are covered by a dental savings plan?

Most plans cover a wide range of preventive and basic dental procedures including cleanings, X-rays, exams, and fillings. Some plans also offer discounts on major procedures such as crowns, bridges, dentures, and implants.

How much does a dental savings plan cost?

The cost of dental savings plans varies depending on the type of plan and the services it covers. Most plans cost between $50 and $200 per year for an individual, or $150 to $600 per year for a family.

Is a dental savings plan worth it?

That depends on how often you need dental care and what types of procedures you need. If you only visit the dentist once or twice a year for routine cleanings and checkups, then you might be better off just paying out-of-pocket for those services rather than signing up for a plan. But if you need more extensive or frequent dental care, then a dental savings plan could end up saving you hundreds or even thousands of dollars over the course of a year.

Contact Us Today!

A final thought on whether or not dental saving plans are worth it… All in all, we think that YES – They are definitely worth looking into! However – Be sure that before signing up for one – You understand exactly what kind of coverage/services it offers as well as any stipulations. Lastly – Even with having this type of coverage – Always remember To visit YOUR Dentist in Mableton GA Regularly so they can catch any problems early ON! And help keep YOUR smile healthy!

Should I Wear A Night Guard

Should I Wear A Night Guard

Should I Wear A Night Guard?

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The Benefits of Wearing a Night Guard

If you’re experiencing jaw pain, headaches, or difficulty sleeping due to grinding or clenching your teeth, then you may want to consider wearing a night guard. A night guard is a dental appliance that fits over the top and bottom teeth to protect them from damage caused by grinding and clenching. At Mableton Family Dentistry in Mableton GA, we recommend wearing a night guard for many of our patients who suffer from these problems. Let’s look at how wearing a night guard can help improve your sleep and oral health.

Better Sleep Quality

A night guard provides cushioning between your upper and lower teeth in order to prevent damage caused by clenching or grinding your teeth during the night. This makes it easier for you to fall asleep and stay asleep because you no longer have the pressure on your jaw. It also helps reduce snoring because it keeps your airways open while you sleep which can decrease the number of times you wake up throughout the night.

Protection Against Tooth Damage

The purpose of wearing a night guard is to protect against tooth damage caused by grinding or clenching your teeth at night. Your dentist in Mableton GA can customize this appliance so that it fits comfortably in your mouth without being too tight or loose. Having a custom-fitted appliance will ensure that all of your teeth are properly protected from any kind of trauma or stress that may occur during the night.

Reduced Jaw Pain

When people clench their jaws at night, they often experience pain in their jaw muscles due to the strain put on them when they grind and clench their teeth together for extended periods of time. Wearing a properly fitted mouthguard helps reduce this pain by providing cushioning between the upper and lower teeth, allowing them to move freely without putting excess strain on any one muscle group in particular. By reducing this tension, wearing a mouthguard can help alleviate nighttime jaw ache and morning headaches caused by clenching and grinding one’s teeth while asleep.

Bruxism Prevention

Bruxism is an unconscious habit where people grind or clench their teeth excessively while they are sleeping, which can lead to significant dental damage over time if left untreated. Wearing a custom-fitted mouthguard can help prevent bruxism as it prevents direct contact between the upper and lower teeth while providing cushioning between them as well. This means that even if someone does unconsciously grind their teeth at night, there will be less trauma inflicted on their teeth since they won’t be directly contacting each other with such force as before.

Contact Mableton Family Dentistry Today!

Wearing a nighttime mouthguard is an effective way to protect your smile from damage associated with tooth grinding and clenching while sleeping. Not only does it provide protection against tooth wear but it also reduces pain associated with bruxism-related jaw discomfort, making it much easier for you to get quality restful sleep each night without having any negative effects on your oral health. If you think you could benefit from wearing a nightly mouthguard, please contact us to come visit us at Mableton Family Dentistry in Mableton GA for more information about our custom-fitted mouthguards today!

Tips To Overcome Dental Anxiety

Tips To Overcome Dental Anxiety

Tips To Overcome Dental Anxiety

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Overcoming Dental Anxiety at Mableton Family Dentistry

For many people, going to the dentist near you can be a daunting experience. If you find yourself getting nervous before dental appointments, you’re not alone – it’s estimated that up to 15% of Americans have some level of dental anxiety. Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to make your appointment less stressful. Let’s explore some tips for overcoming dental anxiety at Mableton Family Dentistry in Mableton GA.

Communicate Your Anxieties to Your Dentist

If you’re feeling anxious about your upcoming dental appointment, let the team at Mableton Family Dentistry know. They will be more than happy to work with you and accommodate any special requests that you may have. That could include anything from scheduling an early morning appointment when the clinic is relatively quiet or having a friend or family member accompany you during your visit.

Find Distractions During Your Appointment

When visiting your Mableton GA dentist, it can help to bring along something that helps distract your mind from your anxieties. That could include bringing headphones and listening to music or playing games on your phone while the dentist works on your teeth. You can also bring a book or magazine if those options don’t appeal to you.

Keep Up With Regular Visits

The best way to reduce dental anxiety is by getting into a regular routine of visiting Mableton Family Dentistry every six months for a checkup and cleaning. Not only will this ensure that any problems with your teeth are caught early on, but it will also help normalize the experience so that future visits are less intimidating.

Schedule An Appointment Today!

At Mableton Family Dentistry, we understand how nerve-wracking going to your dentist in Mableton GA can be for some people and we want all our patients—from children to adults—to feel as comfortable as possible during their visits with us. By following these tips for overcoming dental anxiety and communicating any anxieties beforehand, we hope that our patients will feel more relaxed during their appointments here in Mableton GA! Contact us today! We look forward to seeing you soon!