Why Are My Gums Sore and Bleeding? Understanding the Causes and How Pathway Dental Group Can Help
If you’ve noticed your gums feeling sore, tender or bleeding—especially when brushing or flossing—you’re not alone. These symptoms are common and often signal the early stages of gum disease, but they can also stem from other causes. Understanding what’s behind your gum discomfort is the first step toward effective treatment and healthier oral habits.
Common Causes of Sore and Bleeding Gums
1. Gingivitis (Early Gum Disease)
Gingivitis is the earliest stage of gum disease, caused by plaque buildup along the gum line. Symptoms include red, swollen gums that bleed easily during brushing or flossing. Fortunately, gingivitis is reversible with proper oral hygiene and professional dental care.
2. Periodontitis (Advanced Gum Disease)
If gingivitis is left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, a more severe form of gum disease that damages the soft tissue and bone supporting your teeth. This can lead to gum recession, loose teeth and even tooth loss. Periodontitis requires more intensive treatment to manage.
3. Aggressive Brushing or Flossing
Using a hard-bristled toothbrush or brushing and flossing too vigorously can irritate and damage gum tissue, leading to soreness and bleeding. Switching to a soft-bristled brush and adopting gentle techniques can help prevent this.
4. Vitamin Deficiencies
Deficiencies in vitamins, particularly vitamin C, can lead to gum problems. A lack of vitamin C can cause scurvy, characterized by swollen, bleeding gums. Maintaining a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients supports gum health.
5. Hormonal Changes
Hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy, menstruation or menopause can make gums more sensitive and prone to bleeding. Maintaining good oral hygiene and regular dental checkups is crucial during these times.
6. Medications
Certain medications, such as blood thinners, can increase the likelihood of gum bleeding. If you suspect your medication is affecting your gums, consult your healthcare provider or dentist for advice.
Gum Disease Treatment at Pathway Dental Group
At Pathway Dental Group, we understand the importance of healthy gums for overall oral health. Our Santa Barbara office offers comprehensive gum disease treatments tailored to your specific needs.
Scaling and Root Planing
For early to moderate stages of periodontitis, we perform scaling and root planing. This deep-cleaning procedure removes plaque and tartar from below the gumline and smooths the root surfaces, promoting gum reattachment and healing.
Personalized Care Plans
Our experienced dental team will assess the severity of your gum disease and develop a personalized treatment plan. We focus on patient education, ensuring that you understand the importance of oral hygiene practices to prevent recurrence.
When to See a Dentist
If you’re experiencing persistent gum soreness, bleeding or other concerning symptoms, it’s essential to consult a dental professional promptly. Early intervention can prevent the progression of gum disease and preserve your oral health.
At Pathway Dental Group, we’re committed to providing compassionate, comprehensive care to help you achieve and maintain healthy gums. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and take the first step toward a healthier smile.
Experience the Convenience of Same-Day Dentistry at Pathway Dental Group
Finding time for dental appointments can be challenging in today’s fast-paced world. At Pathway Dental Group, we understand the importance of efficient and effective dental care. That’s why we offer same-day dentistry services, allowing you to receive high-quality treatments in a single visit. Leveraging advanced technology and a patient-centered approach, we make it possible to address your dental needs promptly without compromising on quality.
Same-Day Dental Procedures Offered
Our same-day dentistry services encompass a variety of treatments designed to restore and enhance your smile efficiently:
1. Emergency Dentistry
Dental emergencies can occur unexpectedly and require immediate attention. Whether you’re experiencing severe tooth pain, a knocked-out tooth or a dental injury, our team is prepared to provide prompt care. We offer same-day emergency appointments to alleviate pain and address urgent dental issues swiftly.
2. Tooth Extractions
Extraction may be necessary when a tooth cannot be saved due to decay, damage, or infection. Our team performs tooth extractions with precision and care, often completing the procedure on the same day to relieve discomfort and prevent further complications.
3. Dental Implants
Dental implants offer a durable and natural-looking solution for patients missing one or more teeth. Our skilled dentists can place dental implants efficiently, providing a strong foundation for replacement teeth. In certain cases, we can perform the implant placement and attach a temporary crown in a single visit.
Advanced Technology Enabling Same-Day Services
The ability to offer same-day dental procedures is made possible through the integration of cutting-edge technology, including digital X-rays.
Digital X-Rays
We use advanced digital dental X-ray technology that makes your imaging experience safer, faster, and more precise. Unlike traditional film X-rays, our digital system captures images instantly without the need for processing, allowing for quicker diagnoses and more accurate treatment planning. Digital X-rays expose patients to significantly less radiation—up to 90% less—enhancing safety while delivering clearer, high-resolution images that improve diagnostic accuracy. This technology also streamlines your visit, reducing the time spent in the dental chair and helping your doctor provide more effective, personalized care.
Benefits of Same-Day Dentistry
Opting for same-day dental services at Pathway Dental Group offers several advantages:
- Time-Saving Convenience: Complete necessary dental treatments in a single visit, reducing the need for multiple appointments.
- Immediate Relief: Address dental issues promptly, alleviating discomfort and preventing further complications.
- Enhanced Precision: Utilization of advanced technology ensures accurate diagnostics and high-quality restorations tailored to your needs.
- Comfort and Efficiency: Streamlined processes minimize chair time and enhance your overall dental experience.
At Pathway Dental Group, your oral health and convenience are our top priorities. Our same-day dentistry services are designed to provide efficient, high-quality care that fits seamlessly into your busy schedule. Experience the benefits of advanced dental technology and compassionate care by scheduling your appointment at one of our three convenient locations in Santa Barbara, Santa Maria and Lompoc.
Dental Implant Restorations
If you’re missing a tooth or have an implant that needs repair, dental implant restorations can help you regain a full, healthy smile. At Pathway Dental Group, with locations in Santa Barbara, Santa Maria and Lompoc, CA, we specialize in implant restorations to ensure that your dental implants look and function like natural teeth.
What Are Dental Implant Restorations?
Dental implant restorations refer to the process of replacing or repairing a dental implant, including the crown, bridge or denture that attaches to the implant post. These restorations are custom-made to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, restoring your ability to chew, speak and smile confidently.
Why Are Implant Restorations Necessary?
There are several reasons why you may need an implant restoration, including:
- Wear and Tear – Over time, implant crowns or bridges may become worn down or damaged.
- Chipping or Cracking – Just like natural teeth, implant-supported crowns can suffer from chips or cracks.
- Loose or Broken Restorations – If your implant-supported prosthetic feels loose or detaches, a restoration is necessary.
- Upgrading Older Restorations – If your current implant restoration no longer matches your teeth or feels uncomfortable, a replacement may be needed.
The Dental Implant Restoration Process
At Pathway Dental Group, we take a personalized approach to dental implant restorations to ensure the best results. The process typically includes:
- Evaluation & Consultation – Our experienced dentists will examine your implant, take digital X-rays and assess any damage to determine the best course of action.
- Custom Restoration Design – If a new restoration is needed, we take precise digital scans and work with top-tier labs to craft a crown, bridge or denture that matches your natural teeth.
- Restoration Placement – Once your custom restoration is ready, we securely attach it to your implant post, ensuring a comfortable fit and natural appearance.
- Follow-Up Care – We provide guidance on maintaining your restored implant, ensuring its longevity and function.
Restore Your Smile with Pathway Dental Group
Whether you need a new implant crown, a repair or an upgrade, Pathway Dental Group is here to help. Our skilled team in Santa Barbara, Santa Maria and Lompoc is dedicated to providing high-quality implant restorations tailored to your needs.
Schedule your consultation today and take the next step toward a fully restored smile!
Expert Restorative Dental Care: Our Most Frequently Scheduled Treatments at Pathway Dental Group
At Pathway Dental Group, restorative dentistry is one of the most frequently scheduled services at all three of our locations. Whether it’s repairing damaged teeth, replacing missing ones or preserving your natural teeth, our restorative treatments are designed to help you regain both the function and appearance of your smile.
Our experienced team understands that tooth damage or loss can affect more than just your oral health—it can impact your confidence, speech and ability to enjoy your favorite foods. That’s why we’re committed to offering comprehensive, personalized restorative treatments to help you reclaim a healthy, beautiful smile. From minor repairs to full-mouth restorations, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Our Most Common Restorative Dental Procedures
Restorative dentistry focuses on repairing or replacing damaged or missing teeth to restore your oral health and functionality. At Pathway Dental Group, we offer a wide range of restorative procedures designed to help you smile with confidence again. Following are some of the most frequently scheduled treatments at our offices.
Dental Crowns & Bridges
Crowns and bridges are essential for restoring the function and appearance of damaged or missing teeth. Dental crowns cover and protect weakened teeth, while bridges fill gaps left by missing teeth by anchoring to neighboring teeth or implants. Both options are custom-made for a natural look and comfortable fit.
Dental Bone Grafting
If you’ve experienced bone loss due to injury, infection or tooth loss, bone grafting can help rebuild and strengthen your jaw. This procedure is often necessary before receiving dental implants, ensuring that your jawbone is strong enough to support the implant for long-term success.
Dental Implants
For a permanent solution to missing teeth, dental implants are the gold standard. Implants look, feel and function like natural teeth and can replace one or multiple teeth. If you need a full-mouth restoration, our full-mouth dental implant options can completely restore your smile with durable, natural-looking results.
Retainers
Custom retainers help maintain tooth alignment after orthodontic treatments. They’re essential for keeping your teeth in place and preventing future dental issues related to shifting teeth.
Dentures
We offer both partial and full dentures for patients who have lost multiple or all of their teeth. Our custom-made dentures provide a comfortable, natural-looking solution to restore your ability to eat, speak and smile confidently.
Root Canal Treatment
If you’re experiencing severe tooth pain or sensitivity, a root canal can save your natural tooth by removing infected pulp, cleaning the area and sealing it to prevent further infection. This procedure can alleviate pain and help preserve your tooth for years to come.
Tooth Extractions & Wisdom Teeth Removal
When a tooth is too damaged to be restored or your wisdom teeth are causing issues, our team offers safe and effective tooth extractions and wisdom teeth removal. We prioritize your comfort and offer sedation options for a stress-free experience.
Financing Your Restorative Dental Treatment
We’re proud to be in-network with nearly 20 dental insurance providers, most of which offer partial coverage for restorative dental treatments. While coverage varies depending on your plan, many policies cover a percentage of essential restorative procedures after meeting your deductible.
Patients without dental insurance can access savings on restorative treatments through Launch Loyalty, our in-house membership program. We additionally offer third-party financing through CareCredit® and Sunbit, allowing you to design a payment plan that meets your needs. Our financial team is happy to help you explore payment options.
Restore Your Smile with Pathway Dental Group
At Pathway Dental Group, our goal is to provide exceptional restorative dental care in a comfortable, supportive environment. Whether you need a simple crown or a full-mouth dental implant restoration, our skilled team is here to help you every step of the way.
Contact us today to schedule your consultation at one of our convenient locations in Santa Barbara, Santa Maria or Lompoc and get started on your journey to better oral health. Let us help you restore your smile and regain your confidence!
Vaping and Oral Health: What You Need to Know
In recent years, vaping has gained popularity as a perceived “healthier” alternative to smoking. While it’s true that e-cigarettes lack some of the harmful chemicals found in traditional tobacco products, they are not without their risks—especially when it comes to your oral health. At Pathway Dental Group, it’s our job to keep you informed about how your habits affect your teeth and gums. Let’s dive into the effects of vaping on your oral health.
What’s in a Vape?
E-cigarettes produce vapor by heating a liquid mixture containing nicotine, flavorings, and other chemicals. This vapor may feel smooth and less harsh than cigarette smoke, but it still introduces potentially harmful substances into your mouth.
Key ingredients in e-cigarette liquids include:
- Nicotine: Highly addictive and can reduce blood flow, impairing healing and gum health.
- Propylene Glycol: A key component of vape liquids, propylene glycol breaks down into acids that can weaken enamel and contribute to dry mouth.
- Flavorings: Some flavor additives can be acidic or irritating to oral tissues.
How Vaping Affects Your Oral Health
While vaping might not leave your teeth stained like traditional cigarettes, it still poses serious risks to your oral health. Here are some of the most common effects:
1. Dry Mouth
Vaping can lead to a condition called xerostomia, or dry mouth, because it reduces saliva production. Saliva is critical for neutralizing acids and washing away bacteria. Dry mouth increases the risk of:
- Tooth decay
- Gum disease
- Bad breath
2. Increased Risk of Gum Disease
Nicotine in e-cigarettes reduces blood flow to your gums, which can:
- Hinder your body’s ability to fight off infections.
- Mask early signs of gum disease, such as bleeding gums.
Over time, this can lead to serious periodontal problems, including gum recession and tooth loss.
3. Potential Enamel Damage
The acidic ingredients in flavored vape liquids may erode your enamel over time. Once enamel is weakened, your teeth are more susceptible to:
- Cavities
- Sensitivity to hot or cold
- Discoloration
4. Inflammation and Irritation
The heat and chemicals from vaping can irritate your oral tissues, potentially leading to chronic inflammation. Persistent inflammation is not only uncomfortable but also harmful to your overall oral health.
Tips for Protecting Your Oral Health While Vaping
If you choose to vape, there are steps you can take to mitigate its effects on your oral hygiene:
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to combat dry mouth and help flush out harmful substances.
- Maintain a Consistent Oral Care Routine: Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, floss daily, and consider using a mouthwash to help combat bacteria.
- Visit Your Dentist Regularly: Routine check-ups and cleanings can help identify and address any early signs of damage caused by vaping.
- Cut Down on Vaping: Reducing your frequency can lower your exposure to harmful substances.
- Consider Alternatives: If you’re using vaping as a tool to quit smoking, talk to your dentist about other nicotine replacement therapies that might be less harmful to your teeth and gums.
The Bottom Line
While vaping might seem less harmful than traditional smoking, it’s important to recognize that it still has significant implications for your oral health. Dry mouth, gum disease, enamel erosion, and tissue irritation are all potential side effects that could impact your smile. By staying informed and maintaining good dental hygiene practices, you can help minimize these risks.
If you have questions or concerns about how vaping might be affecting your oral health, don’t hesitate to reach out. Schedule an appointment at one of our three Santa Barbara County locations today to discuss your options and ensure that your smile stays healthy for years to come!
What We Know—Xylitol Concerns
Based on the current studies released about xylitol sweeteners and their potential heart risks, questions have been raised about the continued use of these products. The research indicates that xylitol, a common sugar substitute found in various products, may be linked to an increased risk of heart attack, stroke, and other cardiovascular events.
According to a study published in the European Heart Journal, individuals with higher levels of xylitol in their blood may have a significantly higher risk of experiencing heart-related issues. The researchers observed that even those without a history of heart disease who had elevated xylitol levels were more likely to face cardiac events in the future.
Experiments involving mice showed that xylitol could increase blood clotting, which is a concerning factor for heart health. The findings suggest that consuming xylitol as a sugar substitute may adversely affect cardiovascular function and increase the baseline risk of clotting in the blood.
Xylitol is a naturally occurring substance and is commonly used topically in dental products like toothpaste and gum for its oral health benefits. These preliminary studies seem to point to a more systemic consumption being the source of concern where the amount of xylitol is 10 mg or more. The average amount of Xylitol in dental products used is typically 50-100 times less than this. Please note that these are preliminary studies with a small sample size.
Stay informed and prioritize your overall health and well-being when choosing the products you consume, including sugar substitutes like xylitol. Our doctors at Pathway Dental Group always stay on top of new research and are happy to discuss anything regarding your oral health. They will develop a custom plan that is best for your situation.
Wisdom Teeth Removal Aftercare: Dos and Don’ts for a Quick Recovery
Wisdom teeth removal, a standard dental procedure, often marks a rite of passage for many individuals. However, the journey to recovery begins not at the end of the surgery but with the steps you take following i. Proper aftercare is not just a recommendation but crucial for ensuring a quick and successful recovery. The period following wisdom teeth extraction can be laden with discomfort and uncertainty without the proper preparation, but with the right knowledge and practices, these challenges can be effectively managed. We are here to help you with this!
In this comprehensive guide, we at Pathway Dental Group are committed to providing valuable information and guidance post-surgery. We aim to educate and empower you with the essential do’s and don’ts of aftercare. From managing pain and swelling to navigating dietary changes and oral hygiene, we cover all the aspects to help you heal quickly and efficiently. Whether you’re a patient, a concerned parent, or a caregiver, this blog will be your go-to resource for facilitating a smooth and comfortable recovery journey. It is beneficial if you can plan to have your wisdom teeth removed when it best works with your school and work schedule and before it becomes an emergency! Let’s embark on this path to healing, equipped with knowledge and confidence.
Do’s to Remember for Wisdom Teeth Removal Aftercare
On the day of your surgery, plan on this being a complete rest day. Most surgeries are scheduled first thing in the morning, so our patients can relax in the afternoon and take a long nap!
Most patients are up and about on the second day with reduced activity. Please do not do vigorous exercise or major trips on this day!
We call day three the “danger day” because patients usually start to feel more like themselves and sometimes push it too far. Remember, your body is still recovering from surgery, and it takes time internally for that process to be completed. You will want to plan on going easy at least for a week following your surgery to help aid in your recovery process.
Before Your Scheduled Surgery:
- Pick up any needed prescriptions and foods for a soft diet so you will have them ready to go upon your arrival home
Do’s for Post-Operative Care (first 7-14 days after surgery):
- Get plenty of rest
- Diet of soft foods such as pasta, soups, mashed potatoes, yogurt, and smoothies
- We recommend a liquid diet the first day until your numbness completely wears off so you do not risk biting yourself.
- Drink through a cup
- After 24 hours, you can gently rinse with warm salt water. Allow the water to roll around in your mouth and let gravity take it out for you forceful spitting.
- When brushing your teeth, do so in the mirror to ensure you are keeping your toothbrush at most minuscule a tooth or two in front of your surgical site.
- If you want ice to combat swelling, we recommend using a bag of frozen peas or corn. These are often much softer on your face than traditional ice packs or wraps.
- Take post-op medications as instructed by your doctor
Don’t Remember for Wisdom Teeth Removal Aftercare
- No vigorous exercises (i.e., anything that increases your heart rate significantly)
- No foods that have sharp edges or anything with seeds that could travel to your surgery sites
- No drinking through a straw, smoking, or anything else that creates suction in your mouth
- No forceful spitting
- Do not stretch your mouth wide when opening or speaking
- Please keep any fingers or tools away from your surgical sites
- Do not discontinue use of medications unless directed by your doctor
If you are concerned about infection, contact the office to evaluate your symptoms, and a post-operative visit can be scheduled as needed. While you should expect some discomfort after your wisdom tooth removal, the following could be signs that something else is going on and needs attention:
- Inability to sleep
- Fever
- The face feels hot to the touch
- Excessive swelling
- Excruciating pain that is affecting your ability to function after several days
While most patients are not excited about having their wisdom teeth removed, with the proper preparation and adherence to post-op care instructions, the recovery process does not have to be protracted or take over their lives. The benefits of having your wisdom teeth removed, such as preventing infection, damage to the adjacent teeth, and shifting, far outweigh the short-term recovery process for most of our patients. If you or one of your family members has wisdom teeth needing removal, contact us today to schedule your consultation.
IV Sedation Dentistry What to Expect: Comfort, Safety, & Recovery
IV sedation is used in many areas of medicine to help patients stay comfortable during various procedures, including certain types of dental treatment.
IV sedation makes it easier for your dentist to provide care and keeps you comfortable. Patients tend to feel relaxed and calm, which is also helpful in some instances for dental anxiety.
So, what should you expect from IV sedation dentistry? Keep reading to learn more.
What to Expect with IV Sedation Dentistry: A Guide for Patients
Are you interested in IV sedation for your dental appointments? You are not alone! We offer IV sedation as an option to all our patients in all 3 locations. If you are interested in IV sedation, the first step is to schedule a consultation with one of our IV sedation providers at Pathway Dental Group. From there, they will review your medical history and needed dental treatment to determine what sedation options are best for you.
Benefits of IV sedation
- Patients remain relaxed throughout their procedure
- Most patients do not remember anything about their appointment
- We can complete a larger amount of treatment at one time
- By combining appointments, you can return to your regular activities sooner
- This is safer than General Anesthesia since we are not breathing for you
What does the process of IV sedation look like?
After you have an evaluation with one of our IV sedation providers, we will have you complete your pre-operative forms right there at that same appointment, so you do not have to schedule a separate appointment or delay in scheduling your needed treatment any further! We also want to ensure you have all your post-operative instructions to prepare you with any special diet restrictions and medications. We can coordinate who will bring you to your appointment and drive you home afterward. There are no surprises here-we want you to be comfortable with every step!
From there, it is just a matter of scheduling your appointment. We will let you know how long we expect your IV sedation treatment appointment to last so you can also let your ride know in advance. After your appointment, most patients go home and take a nice long nap that afternoon. Once they wake up early in the evening, they have a bite to eat, and most patients are ready to return to work and do everyday activities the next day.
IV sedation is not just for surgical procedures. Many patients opt for IV sedation for general dentistry procedures as well, just for the ease of the appointment and the ability to have more treatment completed at once.
We are proud to be one of the few general dentistry practices in the county to offer this service to our patients at all three of our locations: Santa Barbara, Lompoc, and Santa Maria. If you are interested in IV sedation for your next appointment, contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of our IV sedation providers!
Types of Dentures & How to Choose the Best Option for Your Smile
Forty million people in the US have no natural teeth left. However, this doesn’t mean all these people are walking around with gummy smiles. Many are flashing a healthy, beautiful set of pearly whites thanks to dentures.
There are a lot of stereotypes surrounding dentures — don’t fall for them. Modern dentures are much more durable, natural-looking, and effective than the dentures your grandparents wore!
The problem with missing teeth
Let’s start at the beginning and take a moment to understand why missing teeth are such a big issue. There are the obvious reasons:
- Inability to chew normally
- Difficulty speaking
- Tremendous effect on your appearance
These should be reason enough, but we’ve got you covered if you need more convincing.
Missing teeth spell disaster for your dental health. It doesn’t matter if you’re missing all your teeth or just one — the health implications are the same.
- Your jawbone beneath the missing tooth will begin to dissolve. This irreversible process is known as resorption, and it will leave your cheeks with a sunken, sucking-on-a-lemon look.
- Neighboring teeth may begin to shift and reposition, causing pain in your jaw or bite.
- Your risk of decay and gum disease increases.
- Empty spaces in your mouth allow bacteria to grow and travel throughout your body.
Ignoring the problem will not make it go away. When your dentist says you need to find a tooth replacement option, they want what is best for your health.
What are dentures?
Dentures are prosthetic devices constructed to replace missing teeth. This tooth replacement option is comprised of artificial teeth and gums and can replace all your teeth on the top and bottom or just a few missing teeth.
The concept of dentures has been around since as early as 2500 BC. People initially made these false, removable teeth from animal teeth. Centuries later, dentures were fashioned from bone, wire, and animal and human teeth.
Over time, dentures underwent various iterations, constructed from materials like wood, repurposed human teeth, ivory, porcelain, plastic, and vulcanite (a hardened rubber). Today, most dentures are made of biocompatible acrylic resin and metal.
Most people consider dentures an unsightly set of removable teeth that could easily fall out of your mouth by accident and are strictly reserved for grandparents. Thanks to advancements in dentistry, this just isn’t true!
Modern dentures aren’t only for seniors and are nothing like what you’re probably envisioning. They allow people of all ages to restore the appearance and functionality of their mouths. Plus, not all dentures are removable. Today, there are many denture designs based on your needs.
Three popular types of dentures
As you’re considering the different styles of dentures below, remember that dentures are an option when:
- All the teeth in your mouth are missing (called complete dentures)
- You have some natural teeth remaining and need a few replacement teeth (called partial dentures)
1. Removable dentures
Also called “traditional dentures,” removable dentures are the most simple style of denture available. They are meant to be a simple, non-surgical solution to missing teeth.
Unlike traditional dentures of years past, modern removable dentures from Ericson Dental are crafted using the most advanced techniques to ensure durability and a comfortable fit.
Additionally, special attention is given to the teeth’ shape, color, texture, and placement to ensure a life-like and natural appearance.
Removable dentures allow you to smile confidently and ensure you can continue eating and speaking naturally. However, you should also consider that they do not improve the structural integrity of your jaw and cannot stop bone loss.
2. Implant-retained dentures
This type of denture is held securely in place by dental implants. While these dentures snap in place and won’t slip out while talking or eating, they are technically removable and must be cleaned at night.
One difference between this option and implant-supported dentures is that your gums, rather than the implant, absorb most of the bite impact.
Implant-retained dentures also use fewer implants and can often be placed with mini dental implants. This diminishes or eliminates the need for any bone grafts.
3. Implant-supported dentures
Unlike implant-retained dentures, implant-supported dentures are not removable. This fixed denture stays in your mouth forever and is held in place by several dental implants. The exact number of implants will vary but can be as many as eight.
Additionally, unlike implant-retained dentures, this type is designed to take the full force of your bite, absorbing it evenly through the implant and into your jawbone.
Due to the number of implants required for this type of denture, combined with the implant bearing the full force of your bite, your jawbone and gum tissue must be in good condition before treatment. You may need to undergo bone or soft tissue regeneration to ensure the implant-supported dentures are a success.
Which type of denture is right for you? Let’s chat!
The best type of denture will vary from person to person. Remember, modern-day dentures don’t take a one-size-fits-all approach! There are a few things to consider when finding out which type of denture is right for you:
- How many teeth do you have missing
- The health of your gum tissue and jawbone
- Your age and whole body health
- Whether or not you want to invest in implants
- Amount of time you can devote to the maintenance of your dentures
- How quickly you want to restore your smile
Ultimately, only a highly qualified denture dentist can recommend the best type of denture for your health and smile. To learn more about your options and which type best fits you, contact Pathway Dental Group today.
What to Do If You Chip a Tooth—Immediate Steps and Restorative Options
A chipped tooth can happen to anyone, whether they are enjoying a meal, playing sports, or even just doing household chores. Not only can such an incident cause discomfort, but it can also lead to anxiety about their smile’s appearance and the health of their tooth. At Pathway Dental Group, we understand your concerns and are committed to providing quick and efficient solutions. Here is a detailed guide on what to do when you chip a tooth and the restorative options available.
Immediate Steps to Take After Chipping a Tooth
- Rinse Your Mouth: Start by gently rinsing your mouth with warm water. This will help clean the area and remove any food particles that could irritate the tooth further.
- Evaluate the Damage: If possible, examine the chipped tooth in a mirror. Understanding the extent of the chip will help you communicate with your dentist.
- Manage the Pain: If you have pain, apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek near the affected area to reduce swelling and relieve discomfort. Avoid placing ice directly on your tooth, as this can worsen the pain if the nerves are exposed.
- Take Over-the-Counter Pain Relief: Medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help alleviate pain. Stick to the recommended dosage and avoid placing aspirin or any other medication directly against the gums, as this can burn the tissue.
- Cover Sharp Edges: To protect your gums and tongue from cuts, cover the chipped tooth with a sharp edge with sugar-free chewing gum or dental wax.
- Eat Soft Foods: Until you can get to the dentist, eat soft foods and avoid biting down on the chipped tooth.
- Call Your Dentist Immediately: Schedule an emergency dental appointment. Most dental practices offer same-day appointments for such emergencies. If possible, you can try to take a picture of the chipped area to send us to help us evaluate the urgency of your situation.
Dental Restorative Options for Chipped Teeth
Once you are at our office, we will assess the extent of the damage and discuss the best course of action to restore your tooth. Here are some of the common restorative options:
- Dental Bonding: Dental bonding is an effective solution for small and simple chips. We will apply a tooth-colored composite resin to the chipped area, sculpt it to look like a natural part of your tooth, and then cure it with ultraviolet light.
- Dental Veneers: A veneer might be the best option if the chip is large or your tooth needs cosmetic improvement. Veneers are thin covers that adhere to the teeth, giving a more classically shaped look. They are particularly ideal for the front teeth visible when smiling.
- Dental Crowns: For more significant damage, including pain or a risk of infection, your dentist may recommend a crown. A crown is a cap, typically made of porcelain or ceramic, fitted over your tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance.
- Root Canal Therapy: A root canal may be necessary if the chip is large enough to extend into the pulp – the center of the tooth containing nerves and blood vessels. This procedure involves removing the damaged pulp, cleaning the canal, and sealing it. A crown is often placed afterward to protect the tooth.
- Dental Implants: If a tooth is extensively damaged and cannot be saved, your dentist might suggest an extraction followed by the placement of a dental implant. An implant serves as a new tooth root and is capped with a crown for a natural-looking appearance.
Conclusion
At Pathway Dental Group, we emphasize the importance of immediate action and professional consultation in the case of a chipped tooth. Understanding your restorative options helps alleviate some of the stress of dental injuries. Rest assured, we are here to restore your smile and the health of your teeth with state-of-the-art treatments tailored to your needs. If you have chipped a tooth, do not wait. Contact us today to receive the care you deserve.
Remember, each case is unique, so you must consult with your dentist immediately to get the best advice tailored to your situation. Let us help you maintain your healthy, beautiful smile!