GENERAL DENTISTRY SUGAR LAND, TX

Gum Disease

Gingivitis and periodontitis are two stages of gum disease that are triggered by bacterial growth in the mouth. When bacteria-ridden plaque builds up, the gums become inflamed and become sensitive to the touch, resulting in frequent bleeding. Oftentimes, gingivitis worsens and becomes periodontitis where the inner layer of the gum and bone separate from the teeth and form pockets. Naturally, these open spaces collect debris and can become infected below the gumline. As it progresses, toxins in the plaque, as well as the body’s enzymes that fight infection, start corroding the bone and connective tissue. The pockets then continue to deepen, destroying both the bone and gums in the process. While the foundation of the mouth weakens, tooth loss becomes likely.

Symptoms of gum disease include bleeding while brushing, tender and swollen gums, receding gums, deep pockets, loose or shifting teeth, and changes in the way the teeth fit together when biting down. If you’re experiencing frequent bleeding or any of these other symptoms, don’t hesitate to reach out to find the proper treatment.

While plaque is the primary cause of gum disease, other factors include hormonal changes, certain illnesses, medications, habits such as smoking, and a family history of gum disease. Above all of these reasons, the buildup of bacteria is mostly to blame, which is why ensuring proper dental health is the best way to prevent gum disease.

We provide a variety of treatments that are diagnosed depending on the stage of the disease. From nonsurgical treatments to prevent bacteria growth to surgery that restores the tissue, we provide the latest therapies to ensure your gums stay happy and healthy.

If you find yourself experiencing symptoms of gum disease, give us a call and we would be happy to set up an appointment for you.

Wisdom Teeth

Wisdom teeth are the final set of molars that typically come through in our early twenties or teen years. Occasionally, these teeth grow in healthy and aligned. Oftentimes, they are angled, resulting in dental complications and the need for removal. When misaligned, they can crowd and cause damage to neighboring teeth, the jawbone, and even nerves in the mouth.
When wisdom teeth are impacted, they are stuck within the jawbone and unable to break through the tissue. Teeth that are partially erupted are more susceptible to bacteria and therefore infection. Since they’re in a hard-to-reach part of the mouth, tooth decay and gum disease is more likely as the awkward positioning makes brushing more challenging.

Signs of impacted wisdom teeth include swollen and red gums, bleeding gums, swelling, bad breath, jaw pain, an unpleasant taste in the mouth, and difficulty opening the mouth.
The severity of the angles, how impacted the teeth are, the stage of development, and the position of the teeth all affect the ease of removal. When a tooth has erupted completely from the gum it can often be removed in the same way a normal tooth would. When wisdom teeth are below the gumline, they require an incision and often are removed in pieces.
If you think you may be a good candidate for a wisdom tooth extraction, contact us today and we’d be happy to walk you through the process and schedule an appointment.

Laser Dentistry

Laser technology was introduced to the dental industry in 1989. A variety of conditions can be treated with the help of lasers. Offering a more comfortable alternative to many other procedures, it can be used on both the gums and the teeth.

The instruments we use produce light energy in a very narrow beam. When it hits hard or soft tissue, it creates a reaction that removes bacteria and shapes the area when needed. When focused on the teeth, lasers can detect cavities by spotting early signs of decay, can kill the bacteria in a cavity, and can relieve tooth sensitivity. Lasers can better the gums by reshaping the tissue to fix a gummy smile, treat a tongue frenulum attachment, and remove soft tissue folds that impede dentures. There are a variety of ways the mouth can benefit from laser treatment. At Luxe Dental Arts, we make sure to make the experience as comfortable as possible.

The benefits of lasers over other treatments are profound. As a non-invasive procedure, bleeding is minimized and there is less need for sutures. Anesthesia often becomes unnecessary as the laser itself is painless. Bacterial infections are also less likely as the laser sterilizes its target. The procedure is also less likely to damage surrounding areas.
Whether you’re treating gum disease, hypersensitivity, tooth decay, or simply whitening the teeth, laser treatment offers an innovative approach to oral health.

Interested in learning more about laser dentistry and how we utilize it here at Luxe Dental Arts? Give us a call today and we would be happy to loop you in on all the details.

Mercury Filling Removal

Before tooth-colored fillings became available, silver, also known as amalgam fillings were commonly used. Amalgam is a combination of metals that include silver, tin, copper, and mercury that were used to fill cavities caused by tooth decay.

In recent years, there has been some concern regarding the levels of mercury in amalgam fillings. While research has shown that the amount of mercury released into the mouth from fillings is very low, many patients want to take extra precautions by removing their amalgam fillings. On top of possible health concerns, metal fillings are not as aesthetically pleasing as the more modern tooth-colored fillings. Over time, amalgam fillings can become worn or broken and may be in need of removal. Also, decay can sometimes occur beneath them, warranting an extraction so the area can be treated.

We use the latest techniques and most up-to-date precautions when performing mercury-filling removals. Our team uses high-power suction to remove any excess metals from the mouth and practices proper disposal techniques of the amalgam. To enhance your smile, we provide aesthetically-pleasing tooth-colored fillings that will keep your teeth strong and healthy looking.

If you have any questions regarding your amalgam filling and think a removal procedure may be for you, don’t hesitate to give us a call and we would be happy to talk you through the process and answer any questions you may have.

Dentures

Dentures are prosthetic and removable replacements for missing teeth. There are two types of dentures: complete and partial. Complete sets of teeth are used when the entire mouth is in need of a replacement, while partials are used when only a certain area of the mouth is missing teeth.

Aside from the obvious cosmetic setback, a lack of teeth can negatively impact necessary functions like eating and speaking. Dentures can give patients back the ability to speak with confidence and eat with ease. Also, when the teeth are no longer in the mouth, the facial muscles can sag, resulting in a tired appearance. Dentures can assist in filling out the structure of your face and profile.

There are a variety of causes that result in tooth loss. Plaque buildup, which can cause gum disease and rotting teeth is the main reason. Injury and certain diseases can also be to blame. Regardless of the cause, dentures can help you regain the appearance and health of your smile.

Full dentures have a flesh-colored acrylic base that fits over the gums. The upper denture covers the palate of your mouth while the lower denture is shaped like a horseshoe to leave room for the tongue. Partial dentures typically consist of a set of replacement teeth that are attached to a gum-colored base. Our high-end dentures are custom-made from impressions of your mouth, providing realistic replacements.

If you think dentures may be for you, give us a call and we would be happy to answer any questions you may have.