Gum disease can establish itself when the gums detach from the teeth as a result from an inflammatory response to plaque. Gum disease is mainly caused by bacteria from plaque and tarter build up. Other factors that may have potential to cause gum disease may include:
Types of Gum disease include:
Signs of Gum disease include:
More than half of oral cancers have already spread to lymph nodes or other areas by the time they are found.
The goal of TMJ/TMD treatment is to achieve maximum improvement with comfort and normal function. For some patients, the ideal can be achieved, while for others, depending on the nature and stage of the illness, effective management is the maximum goal. Depending on the nature and severity of an individual patient’s condition, the appropriate therapy is determined. For some, simple treatment designed to relax muscles and reduce inflammation is used. For others, more comprehensive diagnostics and treatments are used. Using the information obtained from the computerized recordings of jaw movement and muscle function, Dr. Riley will discuss constructing of orthotic appliance(s). Each orthotic is prepared with detailed tooth anatomy to provide a stable biting position. The appliance, commonly called a “splint,” comfortably fits over either the lower or upper teeth or both, where it can remain invisibly for several months. Worn 24 hours a day, this precise appliance is removed only for cleaning the teeth and the splint. The orthotic permits the jaws to come together in a muscularly healthy position, retraining the muscles to move along a more natural, muscularly oriented pathway into the new occlusion. Patients often report experiencing a significant symptom improvement within a month, while wearing this comfortable appliance. Following three months of full-time use of the splint, patients return for a second computerized study of their jaw and associated muscle function. Based on test data, together with the patient’s symptom improvement, the outcome of the initial treatment is evaluated and options for additional therapy discussed.
In terms of treatments, below are the most common forms of treatment that may be offered.
Symptoms of occlusal disease include the following:
If occlusal disease is not treated, the problems may slowly get worse over time. Ultimately, the teeth wear out prematurely and may be lost. Muscle and jaw problems can continue to cause discomfort. The complexity and cost of treatment increases. Treating occlusal disease can lead to a long, healthy life of the dentition, as well as, to restorative success.
Dental sleep oral appliances is the No. 1 nonsurgical alternative for the CPAP intolerant. We offer appliances that gain success by opening the vertical dimension (placing teeth apart) and advancing the mandible (helping it to move forward). The further the lower jaw is able to be moved to a forward position, the tongue is then in a more forward position causing the air way to be opened more resulting in a better nights sleep as oxygen intake has been increased. End result, no more snoring or restless nights.
“This is indeed a family dentistry; you are treated like part of that family. I highly recommend to any one who wants to visit a dentist, go to Lunn Dentistry!” — Gibbs R.
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