Our dental office provides a wide variety of treatment options for a number of dental concerns. Common dental concerns many patients deal with on a regular basis can include bleeding gums, tooth pain, and damaged teeth. Here we will answer commonly asked questions about these dental concerns in our Chapel Hill, NC office.
Q&A: Dental Concerns in Chapel Hill, NC
Read the following answers to common questions many patients have about their dental problems to learn more about what to do if you have a sudden oral health issue.
Why do I have tooth pain?
Tooth pain can have many causes, from eroded teeth to cavities and TMJ disorders. If you notice changes in your oral health or the comfort of your smile, please contact our office. Please tell us all of your symptoms. We will examine your smile and may take x-rays to find the source of your pain. Then, we can plan treatment.
Do bleeding gums mean I have gum disease?
Bleeding gums can be a sign of gingivitis, or gum inflammation. Although gingivitis can turn into periodontitis, or gum disease, not all patients who develop gum inflammation will develop gum disease. If you notice that your gums bleed when you brush your teeth, continue to brush and remember to floss. Floss before you brush at least once a day. Brush gently twice a day for two minutes each time. Remember to visit the dentist for regular dental cleanings to minimize bacteria that cause gum disease.
Do I need to replace all of my missing teeth with dental implants?
We recommend dental implants and implant-secured bridges or dentures for patients with missing permanent teeth. If you have rows or arches of missing teeth, you will not have to replace all of your teeth with implants. Implant-secured restorations can use about 4 to 6 or more implants to restore a full arch. Implants keep bridges and dentures in place so patients can eat, drink, and speak comfortably.
What can I do if I have a cavity?
Contact our office as soon as you find any holes or pits in your teeth. We can provide root canal services and fillings to remove infection from your tooth or teeth. A root canal removes infected dental pulp, made up of blood vessels, cells, and nerves that keep the tooth alive. After cleaning out an infection, we can provide a filling to seal the tooth. If you need added support, we will provide you with a dental crown.
How can I treat a broken tooth?
Our office can address small chips or cracks in the enamel with dental bonding or veneers. Bonding covers teeth with biocompatible, tooth-colored material. Veneers cover the front of teeth with porcelain ceramic shells bonded to teeth. If you have a broken molar or damage to the surface of a tooth, we may recommend a dental crown.
Do you need prompt, professional dental care? Schedule a dental consultation online or call Chapel Hill Family and Cosmetic Dentistry today at 919.736.6175. At your next visit, please let us know if you have any questions, and we can help!