Periodontitis

As we’ve previously mentioned, gingivitis is the first stage of gum disease that is usually reversible in its earliest stage. Periodontitis, however, is an advanced form of periodontal disease and can lead to tooth loss if left untreated. As periodontitis progresses, you may notice more serious changes in your gums, such as gums that pull away from your teeth, loose teeth, or a persistent bad taste in your mouth. Though our doctors at Advantage Dentistry can treat the problem, we prefer that you take preventive measures.

The longer plaque and tartar remain on your teeth, the more you increase your risk of developing periodontal disease. Healthy gums are firm and pale pink in color. If your gums are puffy and bleed easily, you should visit our doctors at Advantage Dentistry immediately, to prevent the problem from becoming worse. The best ways to prevent periodontitis, as well as gingivitis, is by practicing proper oral hygiene and brush your teeth at least twice a day. Don’t forget to floss!

If you have questions or concerns about periodontal disease, please give us a call. To schedule your appointment with Advantage Dentistry in Kenmore, NY, call our office at 716-877-2275 or visit our website www.advantagedentistry.com for more information about the services we provide. 

Gingivitis

The most common symptom of gingivitis is spitting blood in the sink while you brush. It sounds a little gross, but it’s important to know that you can prevent this from happening. Gingivitis develops when poor oral hygiene habits are practiced. If you notice swollen or puffy gums, dark red gums, bad breath, or gums that are receding, please schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Advantage Dentistry.

Our doctors are dedicated to providing patients with healthy gums, but this cannot be achieved by our doctors alone. It’s a dual effort between the doctor and the patient. Anyone can develop gingivitis, but you increase your risk if you’re a smoker, have a poor diet, or suffer from dry mouth. Untreated gingivitis can progress to periodontitis which can eventually lead to tooth loss. Be sure to talk to your dentist about risk factors for gum disease and discuss your treatment options if you’ve been diagnosed with gingivitis.

If you have questions or concerns about periodontal disease, please give us a call. To schedule your appointment with Advantage Dentistry in Kenmore, NY, call our office at 716-877-2275 or visit our website www.advantagedentistry.com for more information about the services we provide. 

Dry Mouth Discomfort

Dry mouth can be uncomfortable and it can interfere with eating, speaking, swallowing if it persists. Dry mouth is a condition that occurs when the glands in the mouth that make saliva aren’t functioning properly. Saliva neutralizes acids and helps fight against tooth decay. It also helps digest the food you eat and helps teeth during the remineralization process. If you are suffering from symptoms of dry mouth, our doctors at Advantage Dentistry can develop a treatment plan for you.

Symptoms of dry mouth include a sticky, dry feeling in the mouth or throat, a dry tongue, cracked lips, gum irritation, and/or bad breath and mouth sores. The only proper way to treat dry mouth is to identify its cause. Dry mouth commonly occurs as a side effect of medications. Other causes include dehydration, diabetes, chewing tobacco, and hormonal imbalances. Depending on the cause, our doctors may treat this problem with an over-the-counter prescription medication or a saliva substitute.

If you suffer from dry mouth discomfort, please give us a call. To schedule your appointment with Advantage Dentistry in Kenmore, NY, call our office at 716-877-2275 or visit our website www.advantagedentistry.com for more information about the services we provide. 

Thank You For Your Testimonials!

Here at Advantage Dentistry, our staff appreciates feedback from patients because it teaches us how to improve as a team. Our staff would not only like to thank Cheryl Jordan for this positive review, but we would like to thank her for being an excellent patient. If you recently experienced exceptional service from our office, please let us know!  

“I felt I had finally found a dentist/staff that was sensitive to my needs: financially and emotionally. I really do feel that I’ve got an advantage professional, informed dentist, great use of technology and super support staff. Thank you!”
- Cheryl Jordan

To leave a review or to learn more about services we provide at the office, visit www.advantagedentistry.comfor more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our dentists at Advantage Dentistry in Kenmore, NY, call 716-877-2275.

Dry Sockets

We do our best at Advantage Dentistry to ensure that patients understand their post-operation instructions. By avoiding the use of straws, birth control, smoking, or tobacco products, and by rinsing their mouths by gently swirling around saltwater, they can minimize their chances of developing a dry socket. However, complications do happen, particularly when tooth extractions required cutting through gum or bone tissue, which is why we want patients to understand the procedure if a dry socket develops.

Following a successful extraction, a blood clot will seal off the socket. If this clot doesn’t form or is removed before the socket heals, the socket may dry out and infection will set in. This is a very painful process which is usually apparent two days after surgery. If they are experiencing severe pain or can see that the clot is out of place, patients should immediately seek our help. We can prescribe painkillers and antibiotics and will dress the wound with medicated paste or cloth. The wound dressing will have to be replaced every few days until the socket is healed, but the patient is usually back on course for a good recovery after this.

Scott Seier, DDS, operates Advantage Dentistry at 2887, Elmwood Ave, Kenmore, NY, 14217. To set up an appointment, call 716-877-2275, or visit AdvantageDentistry.com and fill out a contact form.