Periodontal disease is the major cause of tooth loss in adults. Mainly caused by plaque, it is usually painless. Regular dental visits are essential to timely diagnosis and treatment. Warning signs of periodontal disease include red, swollen and bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, loose and separating teeth, and changes in the way your teeth meet when you bite.

We are committed to maintaining the health and appearance of your smile. Our philosophy is to prevent disease before it appears. We encourage our patients to maintain a three month recare schedule in order to preserve the health of the attachment to the teeth. Non-surgical treatment of periodontal disease (gum disease) is attended to right in our office.

If your tooth’s nerve chamber becomes infected by decay or injured from trauma, root canal therapy can save your tooth. Root canal therapy cleans out the infected pulp chamber and repairs the damage. Some indications of the need for root canal therapy may be spontaneous pain or throbbing while biting, sensitivity to hot or cold foods, and abscess in the bone.

If you occasionally experience a sudden flash of pain, or a mild tingly feeling when you bite into sweet or sour foods, or drink hot or cold beverages, you may have sensitive teeth. Pain from sensitive teeth is not always constant; it can come and go. Constant pain could be a sign of a more serious problem. Tooth sensitivity is caused by exposed dentin, the porous tissue covered by your gums and enamel. Dentin exposure can occur from receding gums, fractured or chipped teeth, and clenching or grinding your teeth. Dr. Mangot can successfully treat sensitive teeth through proper home care instruction, fluoride treatment, recalcification treatment, bonding, and laser therapy.

When a tooth is fractured, has a large, old filling, or is severely damaged by decay, Dr. Mangot may recommend the placement of a crown, or cap. Crowns protect the remaining tooth structure and can improve the appearance of your smile. Types of crowns include porcelain-fused-to-metal, and all ceramic crowns.

When tooth loss occurs, Dr. Mangot may suggest the placement of a bridge. A bridge is one or more replacement teeth anchored by one or more crowns on each side. Initially, teeth on either side of the space are prepared to receive crowns. A transitional bridge is cemented in temporarily. In the subsequent visit, the final bridge is cemented into place.

TMJ, or TMD, is a condition in which the joints that hinge the muscles and jawbone are not working properly. Common TMJ symptoms can include: tooth pain and sensitivity, tooth wear, jaw and neck muscle tension, clicking in the jaw joint, tightness when opening and closing the mouth, and tension headaches. TMJ disorders can be treated with appliance therapy ( i.e., nightguard ), lifestyle adjustments, or in extreme cases, surgery. Also note, that a custom made athletic guard is recommended for all athletes who participate in contact sports. A form fitting guard can prevent teeth and jaw damage.

Reshaping gums, treating canker sores and ulcers, eliminating infections, and correcting periodontal pockets, can be accomplished comfortably with the use of our soft tissue laser.

Tooth loss can have a far-reaching effect in your dental health and personal appearance. When you lose one or more teeth, your remaining teeth can drift out of position. This can lead to a change in your bite, the loss of additional teeth, and gum disease.

Implants are a great way to replace teeth that are missing as a result of tooth decay, periodontal disease, or an accident. Dental implants look and feel like your own teeth. They are very strong, so you do not have to worry about them breaking. They do not decay or get periodontal disease. Since they are placed between other teeth, it is not necessary to grind down teeth, as in preparation for a bridge. Many people have been suffering with missing teeth and dentures for a long time. Implants can make for a better lifestyle. There are different design possibilities to help you regain your function, support, and cosmetics.