General Dentistry

Strength and durability are critical factors when selecting the appropriate dental materials for you. We have come a long way from traditional materials and newer materials are better at mimicking the appearance of natural teeth.

All patients must consider the following factors when deciding on the right course of treatment:

• The components of the filling material
• Amount of tooth remaining
• Where the filing is being placed
• Chewing load the filling must withstand
• Length and number of visits needed for adjustments

Periodontal disease, otherwise known as gum disease, is one of the leading reasons for tooth loss. Complicating the issue is that gum disease can progress in a relatively painless state making it difficult for patients to recognize. Regular checkups are our front line defenses for protection.

Plaque buildup is the primary cause of gum disease, releasing toxins into the gums if not removed by brushing, flossing, or removal by a hygienist. The two stages of gum disease are:

Gingivitis — Early stage when gums become red, swollen and bleed easily

Periodontitis — Gums and supporting bones become seriously damaged due to untreated Gingivitis

Risk Factors

• Smoking or using chewing tobacco
• Diabetes
• Medication such as, steroids, anti-epilepsy drugs, cancer therapy drugs, calcium channel blockers and oral contraceptives
• Bridges that no longer fit properly
• Crooked teeth
• Old fillings
• Pregnancy

Symptoms

• Bleeding gums
• Red, swollen, tender gums
• Gums that have pulled away from teeth
• Chronic bad breath or bad taste
• Pus between teeth and gums
• Loose or separating teeth
• Change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite
• Change in the fit of partial dentures

Treatment

• Non-surgical deep cleaning
• Surgery and laser gum surgery
• Implants

Prevention

• Regular checkups
• Good oral hygiene
• Balanced diet

Call the practice immediately. If it is after hours, we will have an emergency phone number for you to call. If you are unable to reach us for any reason, please call 911.

Common dental emergencies:

• Broken and cracked tooth or teeth
• Broken jaw
• Loss of tooth or teeth
• Something caught between teeth
• Severe tooth ache

At McDougal Dental, we believe in staying on top of the latest technology and treatment options. More importantly, we are ahead of the curve when it comes to safety.

Advanced digital X-rays expose our patients to lower amounts of radiation, as well as provide a clearer photo. They are also much faster than the traditional X-ray.