Eastmont Family Dental

Healthy gums are pink, firm, and don’t bleed. Signs of gum disease consist of red, swollen gums and plaque build-up (particularly around the gum area). Other signs are bleeding when brushing or flossing, gums separating from teeth, and loose teeth. There are different levels of gum disease. The first of which is Gingivitis. Gums are red and inflamed, and may bleed when brushed or flossed. Dental plaque builds around the gumline and solidifies to form tartar. Following Gingivitis is Periodontitis. This is when there is increased tartar buildup and the inflammation causes the gums to separate from the tooth and form pockets. Early-to-moderate bone loss begins to occur. A LANAP may be advised by your dentist. The last stage is Advanced Periodontitis. This is when severe bone loss and deep pockets between your tooth and gums begins to occur. Teeth become loose or mobile. A LANAP is a very effective treatment option. 

Yes! Two alternative options to treat your Obstructive Sleep Apnea is to use a CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) device or Oral Appliance Therapy. A CPAP device is a mask that is worn while you sleep. The mask is connected to a machine that provides a stream of air into your lungs that keeps your airway open and allows you to breathe easily. Though the machine can be loud and the mask may feel bulky, the CPAP device is proven to be the most effective way to control sleep apnea. Another option is Oral Appliance Therapy. It consists of a custom-made oral appliance that is worn similarly to a mouth guard for sports or a night guard for grinding. The appliance is designed to shift your jaw forward, pulling your tongue with it. This new position prevents your tongue from collapsing and closing your airway. Oral Appliance Therapy is used to treat mild to moderate Obstructive Sleep Apnea, whereas in severe cases a CPAP device may be required. 

A simple method is to order an at-home sleep apnea test. Some signs and symptoms of sleep apnea include: inconsistent breathing during sleep, consistent and loud snoring, hypertension, obesity, gasping or coughing during sleep, extreme sleepiness throughout the day, morning headaches, dry mouth and/or sore throat in the morning,or irregular heart beat. 

X-rays allow your dentist to view and analyze the condition of your teeth, roots, and jaw placement. X-rays also allow your dentist to find and treat dental problems early and with minimal complications.