Our teeth have two forms of protection: tooth enamel and gums. Tooth enamel protects the portion of the tooth above the gum line, protecting the sensitive inner tooth structure from bacteria. The roots of the tooth have no enamel coating; instead your gums protect them. However, a number of factors may cause the gums to… Read more »
Category: Gum Recession
Encinitas Periodontist Answers: What is a Gum Graft?
How your gums look can significantly impact your smile’s appearance. For instance, a gummy smile (excessive, uneven periodontal tissue) can make your teeth appear crooked even though they’re perfectly straight. Your periodontal tissue’s health, however, affects much more than appearance, and if it can’t effectively perform its duties, then your entire oral health is at… Read more »
San Diego Periodontist Explains Gum Grafting for Improved Support
Your gingival tissue, or gums, surround and protect your tooth roots and help support them as they erupt from your jawbone. Like a gasket in a motor, this seal is subject to wear and can begin to separate from your teeth for a number of reasons. When your gums recede, the vulnerable roots underneath become exposed… Read more »
Why Your Smile Needs a Solid Foundation
Last week, we discussed the various stages of gum disease and how it can destroy your smile as the disease progresses. Unlike tooth decay, gum disease does not directly attack your tooth structure, but rather it slowly erodes the foundation that holds your teeth in place and nourishes them. To underscore the importance of preventing and controlling gum disease,… Read more »
Types of Periodontal Disease Explained by Your San Diego Periodontist
Have you ever wondered why gum disease is such a threat to your oral health? Did you know that there are different types of gum disease? Periodontal disease can advance into a serious medical condition that requires professional treatment. Your Encinitas periodontist, Dr. Ann Kania explains. Gingivitis This common type of gum disease often produces… Read more »
Dental Laser Treatment Explained by Your Encinitas Periodontist
Dental lasers have many applications for treating oral conditions. Dr. Ann Kania is a Board Certified Periodontist and also holds certification with the Institute for Advanced Laser Dentistry. For the treatment of gum disease, dental lasers are less invasive than traditional surgical procedures. Many patients enjoy a shorter recovery time and less discomfort. Gum Disease… Read more »
Ouch! My Teeth Hurt!
Toothaches have many causes, from cavities and fractures to internal infections. Tooth sensitivity is a bit different from a toothache. Sensitive teeth cause pain when they are exposed to temperature fluctuations or pressure. In some cases, thin tooth enamel creates sensitivity. Sometimes harsh bleaching or significant enamel reduction (as in preparation for a veneer) result… Read more »