If you think a little bleeding now and then when you brush or floss your teeth is normal, think again. Simply put–healthy gums don’t bleed.

Poor Hygiene

Most of the time, bleeding gums are the result of inadequate plaque removal due to infrequent or poor brushing habits. Plaque contains germs and will attack the healthy tissue around your teeth. Over time, this causes redness and inflammation which may bleed while brushing and flossing. This is called Gingivitis, and it is the first stage of gum disease.

Gingivitis

Gingivitis is a persistent condition caused by the continuing effects of plaque and tartar buildup. Almost everyone will have some degree of gingivitis at some point in their lives, but consistent dental attention can turn it around. Plaque can be easily removed with a proper brushing and flossing routine, but tartar requires a trip to the dentist. At this point, Gingivitis has advanced into a more serious condition called Periodontitis.

Periodontal Disease

While gingivitis is confined to the gums, periodontal disease spreads into the tissues and bones that support your teeth. Periodontitis can lead to tooth loss and may even affect your overall health.

Bleeding Gums Can Affect Your Overall Health

A growing body of research finds that bacteria and inflammation in your mouth can be related to other problems, including:

• heart disease
• stroke
• dementia
• diabetes
• cancer
• rheumatoid arthritis

Even more reasons why you should not ignore your bleeding gums!

You May be at Risk

As we’ve covered, almost everyone will have some degree of gingivitis sometime in their lives. There are certain factors that will increase your probability:

• Age – The incidence of gum disease increases with age.
• Stress – Research indicates that stress can make it more difficult for your body to fight off infection, including periodontal diseases.
• Medications – Some prescription medicines can increase your risk of gum disease.
• Genetics – Some of us are just predisposed to get gum disease. If members of your family have a history of gum problems, you can ask your dentist for a simple genetic test to determine your risk.

Take Preventative Action

Osborne Family Dental is a friendly, modern private practice located in North Canton, Ohio since 2005. Dr. Robert Osborne and his experienced staff emphasize regular preventative care and thorough screenings to detect your dental problems early when they are most easily treated. We recommend return visits on a schedule based upon your individual needs and as your dental health requires.

If your dentist has told you that you need a root canal, it is perfectly natural for you to be apprehensive about a new experience. Let’s take a look at root canals and all that they entail in hopes that a little knowledge will go a long way in allaying your fears.

What Exactly is a Root Canal?

One of the most common dental procedures, a root canal is reformed to give your natural tooth a second chance by treating the inflammation and infection from the inside. A root canal treatment is required when the pulp (the soft tissue inside your teeth) becomes inflamed or diseased…possibly from a deep cavity or a cracked or broken tooth. During a root canal operation, your dentist will remove the infected pulp. The pulp chamber and root canal of your tooth are then cleaned and sealed. If the infected pulp is not removed, pain and swelling can result, and your tooth may have to be removed.

Does a Root Canal Hurt?

With advances in modern dentistry, a root canal is very similar to having a routine tooth filling and can most often be completed in one or two appointments. (This will depend on the condition of your tooth and your personal circumstances.) If you tooth is infected or inflamed, it is highly likely you are in substantial pain before the procedure, and that the root canal will relieve your discomfort.

Is a Root Canal Expensive?

The cost of a root canal varies depending on how severe the problem is and which of your teeth is affected. The leading factor that will determine your root canal cost is the amount of time and resources your dentist must commit to complete the procedure. Osborne Family Dental is a modern, friendly, quality care private dental practice located in North Canton, Ohio. We feel we are competitively priced with other practices of our caliber and promise:

• Reliable cost estimates before treatment starts
• Financial consultation available on site or over the phone
• Flexible payment options
• Fees that are a fair and reasonable reflection of the quality of care that we provide

We want to help you manage the costs of keeping your teeth healthy. At Osborne Family Dental, we strive to provide you with a positive, pleasant experience.

Tooth sensitivity is a discomfort in one or more teeth as a result of hot or cold foods, foods that are too sweet or sour, or even simply breathing cold air. Understanding what triggers your tooth sensitivity, and how to treat it, can reduce discomfort and make daily life much more manageable.

What Causes Tooth Sensitivity?

Sensitive teeth occur when the lower layer of dentin becomes exposed. This can be caused by:

• Brushing too hard or using tooth whitening products
• Tooth decay near the gums, recession of the gums or gum disease
• Acidic foods
• Plaque buildup
• Age

How Can Tooth Sensitivity Be Reduced?

If you are suffering from tooth sensitivity, there is hope. Tooth sensitivity can be reduced by taking proper steps to maintain good oral hygiene. Brushing with a soft bristled toothbrush, watching the foods that you eat and using fluoridated products, such as mouthwashes and toothpastes, can help reduce or eliminate tooth sensitivity.

You are always encouraged to see your dentist regularly for checkups to have your teeth professionally cleaned, which will reduce instances of tooth sensitivity.

What Can Be Done if My Sensitivity Persists?

Some tooth sensitivity is caused by teeth grinding, and still other tooth sensitivity is so persistent that following the above suggestions simply doesn’t help. In these cases, seeing your dentist may be the best option. Dental professionals can fit you for mouth guards to prevent grinding of teeth, and can also cover exposed roots with fluoride sealers, varnishes or white bondings. Any of these options can drastically reduce tooth sensitivity and discomfort.

Where Can I Get More Information about Understanding & Treating Sensitive Teeth?

At Osborne Family Dental, our door is always open to you. We believe in detecting and treating disease early, so that you don’t have to experience the accompanying pain and discomfort. And we’re here to listen. If you have questions or concerns about your treatment options or procedures, we promise to take the time to discuss them with you, because when you come to Osborne Family Dental, you’re not just a patient, you’re family.

If you’ve been suffering from sensitive teeth and want to learn more about the treatment options available, contact us to speak with a dental professional. With a thorough examination, Dr. Osborne can discuss with you how to treat your tooth sensitivity in the most effective way.

Staining of the teeth is caused by a layer of stain buildup on teeth known as the pellicle film. This film builds up for years and develops noticeable staining on the teeth. Teeth whitening, either professional or with at home products, uses bleaching chemicals that penetrate into the enamel and break up the staining compounds, causing your teeth to appear whiter. Let’s take a closer look at teeth whitening products vs. professional teeth whitening procedures.

How Do Home Teeth Whitening Products Work?

In recent years, the amount of teeth whitening products on the market has quadrupled. And it’s no wonder; who wouldn’t want a beautiful, white smile? But how do they work? Often the hydrogen peroxide solution used in at-home teeth whitening products is a lower concentration than those used by dental professionals. Some teeth whitening products, such as whitening toothpastes have little actual whitening chemicals in them and rely more on heavy scrubbing of the enamel and pellicle film to scrub off topical stains. While they may be more cost effective than professional whitening, you may not see the results you hope to see.

How Does Professional Teeth Whitening Work?

Professional teeth whitening requires two dental visits. At the first appointment, an impression mold will be made of your teeth in order to create the clear plastic, flexible trays that will be used in your teeth whitening process. The second appointment will be for ensuring your trays fit properly and dispensing the product.

The dentist will then instruct you on whether you are to wear the trays with a special whitening solution for 30 minutes twice a day or overnight for a couple of weeks based on the degree of staining and your teeth whitening goals.

What Are The Benefits of Professional Teeth Whitening?

The benefits of professional teeth whitening include:

• Personalized care, with a dentist available to discuss teeth whitening
• A formal dental checkup to make sure your teeth and gums are in good health and can handle chemical teeth whitening procedures
• Higher concentrations of hydrogen peroxide, tailored specifically to your needs
• Dentist assigned at-home treatments with custom mouth trays, reducing discomfort and gum irritation related to teeth whitening

Visit Your Dentist to Learn More about Professional Teeth Whitening

If you’re interested in learning more about how professional teeth whitening can help you have a brighter, whiter smile, we recommend making an appointment to see Dr. Osborne. Osborne Family Dental guarantees excellence in dentistry and care that makes you feel like family. Contact us today to schedule an appointment for your teeth whitening.

TMJ (also called TMD) stands for a joint in your jaw: temporomandibular joint. This joint attaches your mandible (jawbone) with your temporal bone (skull). Injury, teeth grinding, or arthritis may cause TMJ pain. Occasionally a disc within the jaw joint slides out of place during sleep. Regardless of the cause of TMJ, exercises may be a helpful solution; a study at the University of Oxford shows that exercise may relieve TMJ pain.

TMJ Symptoms

TMJ can be a mere nuisance, or it can be a crippling condition. Some symptoms include:

• Pain in your jaw joint or jaw muscles.
• Jaw, neck, or face pain.
• Headaches.
• Stiffness in your jaw muscles.
• A locked jaw.
• Clicking or grating sounds and accompanying pain when you open and close your mouth.
• Noticeable changes in how your upper and lower teeth fit together.
• Ear discomfort, whether it’s a ringing sound or a stuffed feeling.

TMJ Exercises to Relieve Jaw Pain

1. Place your thumb below your chin and gently press upwards. Carefully open your mouth as wide as you can without pain. Hold this position for about five seconds before closing your mouth again. Repeat five times.
2. Exercise the opposite resistance by gently gripping your chin with your thumb and index finger. Open your mouth as far as you can without pain.
3. Using slight pressure from your fingers, press your chin down as you close your mouth. Maintain this resistance for five seconds. Repeat this exercise five times.
4. Press your tongue against the roof of your mouth. Gently open your mouth as far as you can without moving your tongue. Slowly open and close your mouth five times.
5. Hold a pencil or pen between your teeth without clenching your jaws. The pen/pencil keeps your mouth open just the right distance. Now slowly shift your jaw from one side to the other. Repeat five times.
6. Using the same pen or pencil, shift your lower jaw until your upper teeth are behind your lower teeth.
7. Gently stretch your neck muscles. Cross your arms on your chest, stand straight, and stretch your neck from side to side and from front to back.

Contact Osborne Family Dental for TMJ Pain Relief

If these exercises do not bring relief, or if your TMJ pain increases, contact your dentist. Osborne Family Dental offers quality TMJ treatment within a family atmosphere. Feel free to ask us your questions!

Bruxism: Does It Really Matter?

When you grind or clench your teeth, it’s called bruxism. It can happen during the day or at night (sleep bruxism). What matters is whether your bruxism causes TMJ, headaches, or teeth damage. Bruxism may seem like just a bad habit, but it can harm your overall health.

How Do You Know If You Have Bruxism?

There are several symptoms of bruxism:

• The sound of your grinding teeth may wake up your partner
• You have chipped or worn down teeth
• Unusual tooth sensitivity
• Painful, tight, or tired jaw muscles
• Earaches
• Headaches
• The insides of your cheeks are badly chewed
• Tongue indentations

Why Do You Have Bruxism?

It is difficult to say what causes bruxism. It could be stress, anger, or frustration. Sometimes it is because your upper and lower teeth misalign. Bruxism may indicate other sleep problems. Many people don’t realize that bruxism may be a side effect of psychiatric prescriptions.

How Do You Treat Bruxism?

• Reduce the stress in your life. If you know of anxiety triggers, avoid them. Perhaps visit a professional counselor or learn stress management strategies. Begin exercising or mediating; build relaxing habits.
• Wear a mouthguard (available over the counter) or splint (specially made for you by your dentist) when you sleep.
• If bruxism has worn down your teeth, you may require reconstructive treatment, such as crowns, overlays, and correcting misaligned teeth.
• Ask your dentist about behavior therapy. Concentrating on your mouth motions and practicing certain positions may relieve bruxism.
• Your doctor may recommend muscle relaxants, but typically bruxism doesn’t respond to other medications.
• Avoid coffee, tea, alcohol, chocolate, sugary drinks, and smoking. These habits may worsen bruxism.
• Stop chewing on anything other than food, including chewing gum and pens.
• Try sleeping with a warm washcloth resting on your cheeks in front of your earlobes. This relaxes tight jaw muscles.

Visit Your Dentist for More Teeth Grinding Tips for Treating Bruxism

We recommend making an appointment to see your dentist. Osborne Family Dental guarantees excellence in dentistry and compassion for people; we don’t just treat teeth – we treat you like family. Make an appointment or ask us questions. We’re eager to help!

What Is Gingivitis?

Gingivitis is an inflammation and bacterial infection of the gums or soft tissue that surround the teeth. It causes the gums to bleed, and if left unattended, gingivitis can affect the bone and supporting structures of the teeth and cause a more serious infection called periodontitis. Gingivitis usually progresses to periodontitis (gum disease). However, with proper dental care, brushing and flossing, not all gingivitis progresses to periodontitis.

If gingivitis is left untreated and periodontitis sets in, the inner layer of the gum and bone pull away from the teeth forming pockets. The pockets between the teeth and gums collect food particles and bacteria (plaque) and can become infected. The plaque spreads and grows below the gum line. Toxins are produced that start to break down the bone and connective tissue around the teeth. When this occurs, teeth can become loose and tooth loss is possible. Gingivitis which progresses becomes periodontitis and periodontitis is the number one cause of tooth loss in adults.

What Causes Gingivitis?

An exact cause has yet to be pinpointed, but we do know one main cause is plaque. Plaque is made up of different types of bacteria found in the mouth. Bacteria can cause inflammation of the gums and everyone has bacteria in their mouth. Gingivitis begins when plaque accumulates between and around the teeth. Another cause believed to be involved in gingivitis is when a person has an illness that weakens the immune system, which prevents the body to fight off the bacteria in the mouth. It is also believed some medications that suppress the immune system can be a cause of gingivitis. Sometimes changes in hormones leave a person more susceptible to gingivitis.

What Are the Symptoms of Gingivitis?

Osborne Family Dental recommends a visit to the dentist if a patient experiences swelling, redness, pain or bleeding around the gums (especially when brushing or flossing), and breath that is extremely bad. All of these may be an indication of gingivitis.

Am I Susceptible?

If you are diabetic, HIV positive, or suffer from Addison’s disease you may be more susceptible to gingivitis. If a patient is experiencing hormonal changes such as in pregnancy, puberty or menopause, the patient may be susceptible. Lastly, patients who are taking medications for high blood pressure, organ transplants or seizures may also be susceptible if the medication suppresses the immune system.

What Are My Treatment Options?

Treatment depends on how advanced the gingivitis is and the overall health of the patient. Options range from a regular cleaning or prophylaxis of the teeth, nonsurgical therapies that control bacterial growth or surgery to restore supportive tissues if it has progressed to periodontitis

In mild cases, gingivitis treatment begins with a professional cleaning and instructions from your dental hygienist. Good dental hygiene at home is an effective way to combat gingivitis. Regular brushing after meals and flossing after brushing are key to good dental hygiene.

In more advanced cases, gingivitis treatment may include scaling and root planing. This nonsurgical procedure is a deep-cleaning removal of plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line. It is done under a local anesthetic in your dentist office.

If the gingivitis progresses to periodontitis, surgery may be required to graft in new tissue or bone. In some cases, pocket reduction surgery is required to get rid of the pockets that are full of infection.

If a patient is experiencing medical issues that are causing gingivitis, Dr. Osborne and the medical doctor work with the patient.

There’s a Difference Between Treatment and Care

The good news is that regular visits to the dentist to clean away plaque can avoid this problem and are very important in the battle against gingivitis.

At Osborne Family Dental, we believe in caring treatment. Routine dental check-ups, x-rays, and cleanings are recommended. We believe in proactive treatment given with great care.

Contact us today for more information about gingivitis.