9 Tips For Preventing Gum Disease

prevent gum disease Reno

Gum disease is a leading cause of tooth loss in the United States. But it is a preventable disease, and also treatable, at The Reno Dentist in Reno NV.

Here are some simple ways to keep your teeth and gums healthy.

  1. Brush your teeth for two to three minutes, at least twice a day, with fluoridated toothpaste. Be sure to brush along the gumline. Don’t brush too hard, but be thorough.
  2. Floss daily to remove plaque from places your toothbrush can’t reach. Don’t like to floss? Try a floss holder, which makes it much simpler to insert floss between teeth.
  3. Although not a substitute for brushing and flossing, using a mouth rinse can prevent plaque accumulation and keep your enamel strong. Remember that fluoride mouth rinses are not the same as mouthwashes. Mouthwashes have alcohol and are designed to freshen breath.
  4. Eat a healthy diet. Starchy and sugary foods increase plaque. A sensible diet provides the nutrients necessary (Vitamins A and C, in particular) to keep teeth and gums healthy.
  5. Don’t smoke, or use smokeless tobacco, which may bring about advanced gum disease or oral cancer. That includes e-cigarettes.
  6. Be aware that certain medications can also threaten a healthy smile. These include oral contraceptives, antidepressants and heart medicines.
  7. Exercise prevention and schedule regular evaluations — the best way to detect early signs of gum disease and make a plan to reverse it.
  8. Talk to us about dental health topics such as old, broken fillings or crowded teeth.
  9. If you grind your teeth, ask us about ways to protect them.

Prevention is always the best medicine, so brush and floss your teeth twice a day. At The Reno Dentist in Reno NV we treat gum disease, and people from Spanish Springs, Virginia City, and Carson City also come to us for cosmetic dentistry. Schedule an appointment with us today!

Contact The Reno Dentist:

775-323-0700

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

855 W Seventh St Ste 200
Reno, Nevada
89503

 

ArticleID 8129

5 Critical Things To Know About Periodontal Disease

gum disease exam Reno

Periodontal disease, also called gum disease, is inflammation or infection of the gums. For the most part, periodontal disease is preventable. It is also treatable, at The Reno Dentist in Reno NV.

Gum disease is so pervasive in the US that it has been called a health crisis by the American Dental Association.

  1. If left untreated, it can cause irreversible damage such as tooth loss.
  2. Practicing daily dental hygiene and having 6-month dental exams are the best way to prevent periodontal disease.
  3. Periodontal disease can occur without the presence of decay.
  4. Almost half of all 30+ adults in the US have periodontal disease.
  5. In some cases, periodontal disease generates no noticeable symptoms.

Risk factors for periodontal disease include tobacco use, poor oral hygiene (especially failing to floss), genetics, teeth grinding, inflammatory conditions, and poor nutrition.

There may be no better example of prevention being the best medicine. With regular brushing and flossing, and checkups at The Reno Dentist in Reno NV, you can prevent gum disease. Our services include general and family dentistry. Call to schedule a checkup with us today!

Contact The Reno Dentist:

775-323-0700

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):


855 W Seventh St Ste 200
Reno, Nevada
89503

 

ArticleID 7464

Do Kids Get Periodontal Disease?

kids gum disease treatment Reno

Most Reno parents are concerned about cavities. And rightly so. Tooth decay in children is a serious and widespread health condition.

What about kids’ gum disease? Are children at risk for an oral ailment that is common in the adult population?

Short answer: yes.

Let’s discuss it.

Children and teens are at risk of gum disease and the more advanced form called periodontal disease.

What causes gingivitis and periodontal disease?

Gum disease (gingivitis) and periodontal disease are caused by plaque buildup.

Food particles mixed with saliva generate a sticky film called plaque. Plaque creates bacteria. If it is not removed regularly with brushing and flossing, the bacteria multiply. The plaque builds up on the teeth.

The gums respond to the bacteria by becoming sore and inflamed. Plaque buildup hardens into calculus. Calculus cannot be removed by a toothbrush or dental floss. Calculus can be removed during a professional dental cleaning.

The American Academy of Periodontology recognizes three kinds of gum disease in children and adolescents:

  1. Chronic gingivitis
  2. Aggressive periodontitis
  3. Generalized aggressive periodontitis

Chronic gingivitis

This is the most frequent type of gum disease in children. The gums swell, turn red and may bleed. Gingivitis is usually caused by poor dental hygiene. Proper oral hygiene includes daily brushing and flossing.

Gingivitis can be prevented or reversed with daily oral hygiene and a healthy lifestyle. If the child doesn’t practice proper dental hygiene, however, the condition can become more severe.

Aggressive periodontitis

Aggressive periodontitis results in bone loss. It may affect only the first molars and incisors. It rarely occurs before puberty. Surprisingly, children with this variety of disease may have minimal plaque or calculus.

Generalized aggressive periodontitis

This type, though less typical, is most likely to occur at the onset of puberty. It may be present throughout the entire mouth. It results in severe gum inflammation. There are significant amounts of plaque and calculus.

If left untreated, the bone loss becomes so extreme the teeth become loose. Then the child is at risk of tooth loss.

4 key findings of gum and periodontal disease in children:

  1. Children and teens who are generally healthy can have gum disease.
  2. Hormonal fluctuation that transpires with puberty boosts the risk of periodontal disease. Researchers believe hormonal changes shrink the ability of the immune system to fight the bacteria in dental plaque.
  3. Epidemiologic studies indicate that gum disease of varying severity is nearly universal in children and adolescents.
  4. Periodontal disease is more likely to occur in youth ages 12-17 than those younger than 12.

Signs of periodontal disease:

  • Swollen, tender gums
  • Gums that bleed easily
  • Gum recession
  • Bad breath
  • Unusually large spaces between teeth
  • Pus between the gums and teeth
  • Changes in bite alignment

At The Reno Dentist, we treat all pediatric oral conditions including gingivitis and periodontal disease. Twice-yearly dental cleanings and examinations are important. If you are looking for an experienced, friendly pediatric dentist, we invite you to call us today and schedule an appointment. We look forward to meeting you and your child!

https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/encyclopedia/content.aspx?contenttypeid=90&contentid=p01865

https://www.aapd.org/research/oral-health-policies–recommendations/periodontal-diseases-of-children-and-adolescents/

 

Contact The Reno Dentist:

775-323-0700

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

855 W Seventh St Ste 200
Reno, Nevada
89503

 

ArticleID 8217

Not Happy With Your Gums? Ask About Contouring

Not Happy With Your Gums? Ask About Contouring In Reno

Some Sparks and Reno dental patients who are interested in a full smile makeover might want to consider gum contouring. This cosmetic dentistry procedure is helpful for people who feel that their gums rest too low or too high on their teeth.

If you feel that your gums cover too much of the surface of your teeth, it may seem that your teeth are too small and out of proportion with your mouth. For Spanish Springs, Virginia City, and Carson City residents who have teeth that appear too long, gum contouring may help with your appearance, but your Reno dentist may also feel that it is necessary to counteract gum recession, a condition that can lead to periodontal disease.

Talk to your Sparks area dentist about gum contouring. Many periodontists in the Reno area perform this procedure, as well as some general dentists.

I’m Dr. Shane Sykes, and I’ve been practicing dentistry in Reno since 2011. One of the most rewarding things about my job is seeing my Spanish Springs, Virginia City, and Carson City patients gain renewed confidence in themselves after undergoing simple cosmetic dentistry procedures.

We are currently accepting new patients, so if you are looking for quality dental care in the Reno area, call us today at 775-323-0700 for an appointment!

 

Contact The Reno Dentist:

775-323-0700

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

855 W Seventh St Ste 200
Reno, Nevada
89503

 

ArticleID 3913

Danger Zone! 5 Signs Of Gum Disease

dental payment plans Spanish Springs

Here is some important information for anyone who cares about their dental health: gum disease, is a primary cause of tooth loss among adults. There is also evidence that it is associated with heart disease. Fortunately, this problem is easy to treat at The Reno Dentist, if it is discovered in the early stages.

What warning signs should you be looking for?

  1. Gums that bleed often
  2. Gums that appear tender, swollen, or very red, or gums that have visible pus in between them when they are pushed
  3. Your bite changes or your teeth suddenly don’t seem to fit together
  4. Gums that are pulling away from the teeth
  5. A bad taste in the mouth or chronic bad breath

We hope you are not experiencing any of these. But if you are not removing plaque between your teeth, your gums are at risk. Brushing alone is not enough—make sure you floss daily.

Regular check-ups with your dentist is another vital weapon in the fight against gum disease.

At The Reno Dentist, we take pride in caring for our patients and want them to have a healthy and attractive smile. We can treat gum disease, as well as headaches, and we provide general and family dentistry. Schedule your next appointment with us today.

Contact The Reno Dentist:

775-323-0700

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

855 W Seventh St Ste 200
Reno, Nevada
89503

 

ArticleID 4960

How Does Pregnancy Impact Oral Health in Reno

Pregnancy And Oral Health In Reno

In today’s The Reno Dentist blog, we will discuss how pregnancy impacts your oral health in Reno. At the Reno Dentist, we want all expectant Nevada mothers to realize the importance of good oral hygiene during pregnancy. Because of the changes going on in a pregnant woman’s body, there are potential dental health issues that may arise.

The Risk to Oral Health in Reno

Many Reno women experience morning sickness accompanied with vomiting. The gastric acid increases the acidity in the mouth which can easily lead to enamel loss and tooth decay. Heightened levels of progesterone and estrogen may relax the ligaments that support the teeth causing them to loosen. Most Reno residents have experienced gingivitis, but during pregnancy, the hormonal changes increase your risk for gingivitis. Without proper dental care, gingivitis can lead to gum disease.

What Can You Do?

If you are pregnant, our at The Reno Dentist recommends using a soft-bristled toothbrush for daily brushing. Floss carefully and rinse your mouth with a fluoride wash. If you experience morning sickness, clean your mouth with a baking soda and water mixture to improve oral health in Reno. If you are planning to become pregnant, we recommend that you have a cleaning and exam prior to your pregnancy. If you need any dental procedures, it is a good idea to get them done as soon as possible. If you experience any dental problems during your pregnancy, please call and schedule an appointment at 775-323-0700. Untreated dental disease can affect your overall health. At The Reno Dentist we not only offer excellent dental care to our pregnant patients, but we also provide quality preventative care and root canals for the entire family. Our Reno patients can expect professional cosmetic dentistry, dental implants, and Invisalign clear braces.

Contact The Reno Dentist:

775-323-0700

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

855 W Seventh St Ste 200
Reno, Nevada
89503


Dental Health in Reno: Which Type of Toothbrush is Best?

Toothbrush Wars in Sparks Oral Health in Reno dental health in reno

It may surprise you to know that some men and women have very strong opinions about which type of toothbrush is the best. Is manual or electric? Is there really one that is clearly better? Most dentists will tell you that all toothbrushes, when used thoroughly, are effective at removing plaque. Choosing which kind you prefer is really up to you. Today, we want to give you some extra information about toothbrushes to help you select which kind is right for your dental health in Reno.

Does It Save You Money?

You need to consider cost and convenience. Some people argue that even though electric toothbrushes are more pricey, you’ll save on dental bills. However, there are no definitive studies to back up this claim. Manual toothbrushes are easy to find, whereas not all drugstores carry all types of electric toothbrushes. This can be problematic when buying replacement heads. People who travel may find that a smaller, manual toothbrush is easier to pack and batteries are not needed.

Impact on Dental Health in Reno

The pressure you put on your gums with either type of toothbrush is essential. Some people say that it’s difficult to know how much pressure they use with electric toothbrushes, while others say that because of the quick electrical movements, they tend to be more gentle on their gums than when they use manual brushes. You may want to try them both to establish your brushing style. Then you can discuss how it affects dental health in Reno with your dentist.

Schedule an Appointment

Special consideration should be taken for people with arthritis. Most dentists guide their elderly and arthritic patients to use electric toothbrushes when their manual dexterity is diminished. As for children, once they are old enough, an electric toothbrush may be preferable, but safety should always be the first concern of parents. Whichever type of toothbrush you choose, make sure you get soft bristles and replace it every three to four months. Don’t forget, we also offer services such as dental implants, teeth whitening, and laser dentistry.

Contact The Reno Dentist:

775-323-0700

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

855 W Seventh St Ste 200
Reno, Nevada
89503


The Future of Tooth Decay in Reno

The Future Of Tooth Decay In Reno

Dental patients in the Sparks area may wonder what would happen if they didn’t seek quality dental care on a regular basis. The answer isn’t pretty. A common result of untreated cavities are abscesses and tooth decay in Reno. A tooth abscess is an infection near the root of the tooth or between the gum and the tooth. This collection of pus can be very uncomfortable, either causing a shooting pain or a dull throbbing pain. You may also experience bad breath, fever, swollen neck glands, and feelings of general discomfort associated with the infection.

Avoiding Abscesses and Tooth Decay in Reno

Tooth abscesses can also be caused by a chip or a crack in the tooth that allows bacteria to enter. To avoid unpleasant dental problems like abscesses or tooth decay in Reno, have regular visits with your dentist. Also, don’t forget to brush after every meal. With daily brushing and flossing and regular check-ups and cleanings, you can keep your mouth in peak health. Make sure to include flossing once a day to get in those hard to reach places. For questions about which toothpaste to use or what kind of floss you should buy, ask our dental team during your consultation at The Reno Dentist.

Schedule an Appointment

If you are looking for quality dental care in the Reno area, come visit us here at The Reno Dentist. Dr. Shane Sykes has been a dentist in Reno since 2011. We can also answer any questions you have about smile makeover procedures such as dental crowns, veneers, teeth whitening,  dentures, porcelain veneers, and dental implants. We also offer general dentistry treatments such as root canals, wisdom teeth extraction, dental bonding, gum countouring. Call 775-323-0700 to schedule an appointment! We look forwarding to meeting you.

Contact The Reno Dentist:

775-323-0700

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

855 W Seventh St Ste 200
Reno, Nevada
89503


How Inflammation Affects Your Oral Health in Reno

inflamed gums Reno

Swollen and painful gums are symptoms of periodontal disease, an inflammatory gum disease. Swelling occurs from an auto-immune response of the body reacting to an infection. Infections are noticeable through pain, redness, and warmth. If the infection is left untreated, it can affect oral health in Reno. The body’s immune system wants to rid the bone of the harmful material the bacteria is creating. Over time, bone loss can develop.

Inflammation in the gums also is associated with atherosclerosis, the occurrence of fatty deposits inside of the body’s arteries. Inflammation coincides with an increase of the blood protein CRP (C-reactive protein), produced by the liver. The more inflammation there is, the more the liver produces CRP. The more CRP present, the more likely cardiovascular disease is present, along with related problems. CRP production is also related to arthritis, auto-immune disorders, and intestinal troubles.

Scientists are currently looking into the relationship between periodontal inflammation and CRP level and the effects outside of the oral cavity. Links have already been discovered between periodontal disease and pancreatic cancer, heart disease, and stroke. If inflammation is left untreated, gums can develop pockets that provide the perfect breeding ground for infection. The longer the infection persists, the more likely bone loss will ensue, eventually causing tooth loss.

It is crucial to practice preventive dental care daily at home and have regular visits to the dentist. Dental appointments should include an exam, cleaning, and full mouth x-rays, along with the important knowledge and instruction on how to properly care for oral health in Reno. It is also very important to see your dentist promptly if a tooth suddenly becomes sensitive or you experience any other changes. If you’re looking for a dentist in the area, we also offer general and cosmetic dentistry. Thanks for visiting our blog. For more details about oral health in Reno, give us a call at 775-323-0700.

Contact The Reno Dentist:

775-323-0700

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

855 W Seventh St Ste 200
Reno, Nevada
89503


Oral Health in Reno: Instill Good Brushing Habits in Your Children

infant dental exam Reno Oral Health in Reno

New Reno parents may be surprised by the American Dental Association’s recommendations on infant oral care. Parents are advised to begin brushing their baby’s teeth as soon as the first teeth emerge. After all, brand-new teeth are just as vulnerable to tooth decay as older teeth.

Parents are encouraged to use a cloth and a smidgen of toothpaste about the size of a grain of rice to wipe each tooth. As more teeth come through, it’s even more crucial for the teeth to be brushed after each meal or, at least twice a day.

It is essential to select the proper toothbrush, in order to make brushing time as pleasant as possible. A soft-bristled brush is best with a small amount of toothpaste. Infant and toddler-sized toothbrushes with a small head of bristles are useful. Also, there are circle and triangular-shaped brushes that allow your toddler to walk around with their brush with less chance of injury in case of a fall.

If the toothpaste is causing an unpleasant struggle, brush without toothpaste. The goal is to remove food bits that will create bacteria followed by plaque and then cavities. When two teeth touch, it’s time to floss. Flossing is essential to make sure no food is lodged between the teeth. Proper flossing requires fine motor skills which most children don’t develop before age six or seven. Parents need to assist with flossing until they are sure their children can do it effectively for the sake of their own oral health in Reno.

Until the child is old enough to properly brush his or her teeth, they should receive adult supervision and guidance regarding oral health in Reno. Instilling the proper brushing and flossing methods will reap lifelong benefits. While it may seem that supervising them is time-consuming, remember that it’s creating a daily habit that will guard their oral health in Reno. Also, dental expenses related to poor oral hygiene will be avoided. Your child’s first dental visit should be within six months of the first tooth appearing and no later than their first birthday. It may seem early, but most parents bring their child to the pediatrician early. You can trust in your dentist to look out for potential problems and guide you about how to help your child preserve a healthy smile.

If you live in the Sparks area and don’t yet have a trusted family dentist, call The Reno Dentist at 775-323-0700 to schedule your child’s first dental appointment with Dr. Sykes. You can ask us about general dentistry, orthodontics, and gum disease treatment. By starting young, your child will become familiar with our dental practice and our friendly staff, ensuring that he or she never develops a fear of the dentist.

Contact The Reno Dentist:

775-323-0700

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

855 W Seventh St Ste 200
Reno, Nevada
89503