An Introduction to Dental Instruments | Fayetteville, GA

dental restoration

Dental instruments play a crucial role in maintaining oral health, particularly during routine cleanings. These specialized tools allow dental professionals to effectively clean teeth, remove plaque and tartar, and ensure the overall health of the gums. Here’s a look at some of the primary instruments used during routine dental cleanings:

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What To Know About Using Charcoal for Oral Care | Fayetteville, GA

mom and daughter brushing teeth

In recent years, charcoal has gained popularity as a trendy ingredient in oral care products, promising a natural and effective solution for achieving a brighter, whiter smile. From charcoal toothpaste to charcoal-infused toothbrushes, the market is flooded with these products. However, before jumping on the charcoal bandwagon, it’s crucial to understand the pros and cons associated with using charcoal for oral care.

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The Tell-Tale Signs of an Oral Infection | Fayetteville, GA

woman with dental anxiety

Our oral health is a crucial aspect of our overall well-being, and paying attention to the signs of potential issues is essential. One common concern that often goes unnoticed is oral infections. In this blog post, we will explore the various signs that may indicate the presence of an oral infection and why it’s vital to address these issues promptly.

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Tooth Discoloration Is More Telling Than You May Think | Fayetteville, GA

teeth whitening

Maintaining proper oral health is not only crucial for a bright smile but also for overall well-being. One often overlooked indicator of improper oral health care is tooth discoloration. Discoloration can manifest in various ways, ranging from yellowing to brown spots, and can be a warning sign of underlying issues that demand attention.

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The Relationship Between Oral Bacteria and Sugar | Fayetteville, GA

girl eating an apple

The human mouth is a bustling ecosystem, home to a diverse community of microorganisms, including bacteria. While these microscopic residents play crucial roles in maintaining oral health, an intricate dance unfolds when sugar enters the scene. This blog post delves into the fascinating interaction between sugar and bacteria in the mouth, shedding light on the consequences of this sweet partnership.

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The Five Stages of Tooth Decay | Fayetteville, GA

woman with dental anxiety

Tooth decay is not something to take lightly. In fact, it’s something to remain on the lookout for, as even those with a great oral care routine can experience tooth decay. Thankfully, the first stage of decay is the easiest stage to recognize and begin to take corrective actions. Yes, you can reverse decay with early detection! Here are the five stages of tooth decay:

Stage One: White Spots

In this stage, the tooth begins to show signs of strain from attacking sugars and acids. White spots will begin to materialize just below the surface of the enamel. They are a telltale sign that demineralization of the tooth has begun. But, it can be easy to miss because they’re likely to occur on you or your child’s molars first. Your dentist should be able to catch such warning signs during regular cleanings.

In the first stage of decay, this can be repaired without the need for extraction. Whether you’re a child or an adult, the application of fluoride via fluoride treatments, your toothpaste, salivation, the foods you eat, and even the local water supply can help re-mineralize the tooth and stop a cavity from penetrating through the enamel and reaching its second stage.

Stage Two: Enamel Decay

This is the beginning of the end for the surface enamel that is being attacked. Once a cavity breaks through the surface of the enamel, there is no turning back, and you or your child will need to have the cavity corrected with a filling. Teeth erode from the underside outward, so the outer enamel will still be intact for the first half of this second stage, but will be the next target.

Stage Three: Dentin Decay

Stage three is where you will notice a serious cause for concern if you or your dentist have missed the first two. This is the stage where patients begin experiencing pain, that is because the cavity begins to eat away at the second level of tooth material that lies beneath the enamel called dentin. A filling can still be used to stop bacteria from assaulting the tooth to prevent the cavity from reaching the tooth’s pulp.

Stage Four: Involvement of The Pulp

Once the infection reaches the pulp it’s going to hurt a lot. This is a serious point in the progression of decay where a root canal or full extraction will be evaluated by your dentist as the next phase of action.

Stage Five: Abscess Formation

At this point, the infection has reached the tip of the root and exited the tip of the tooth’s structure. It has infected the surrounding tissues and possibly the bone structure. You will likely experience swelling and severe pain. In children (as well as adults) an abscess can be fatal if not appropriately dealt with immediately.

Cavities don’t happen overnight. In the early stages, regular visits can stall and reverse the progression of decay, so it’s important to pay regular visits to the dentist. Catch cavities before they catch up to you by keeping the stages of decay in mind as you continue to care for your and your child’s teeth.

To schedule an appointment or learn more about the beautiful smiles Dr. Sukari McMiller has created visit us online today at www.dreamworksdentalcare.com.

Dr. Sukari McMiller proudly serves patients from Fayetteville and all surrounding areas.