Hinna A. Chaudhry

Every six months. We want children to have a pleasant experience at the dentist so the earlier they start the happier they will be.

Bone loss is a result of periodontal disease. Periodontal disease is caused by a special type of bacteria in our mouth that causes damage to the gum, bone and the peridontal structures of the tooth. There are a plethora of reason that cause periodontal disease including, age, genetics, home care, medication, smoking, medical ailments, etc. Diabetes has been shown to have a direct correlation to the increase of bacteria in the mouth. Unfortunately, once the bone is lost it can be regenerated. In order to prevent further bone loss, it is recommend to get a procedure called a scaling and root planing. There is no way to fully eradicate the mouth of the bacteria that causes periodontal disease, however, the goal is to get the bacteria to a level that your body can fight. Therefore, it is essential to get a cleaning (periodontal maintenance) every 3 months.

Implant supported dentures are the best way to address full mouth tooth loss. Dentures are poorly fitting and do not feel natural. If implants are used with dentures, we are able to get a better fit and can remove the extra acrylic material from the root of the mouth and gums.

Unfortunately waiting on the root canal could have a negative effect on the baby. Bacteria and infection travel from the mouth to the fetus. Getting elective dental work during pregnancy is not recommended. However it is needed for emergencies (pain infection etc). Your doctor will get in touch with your OB/GYN and confirm there are no contraindications to treatment (usually it is just recommended to use anesthesia without epinephrine). The second trimester is also the best time for the fetus to get dental work done. Hope this helps!

Waking up with cheek mucosal sloughing is a normal occurrence. Sometimes simple things like changing toothpaste/mouthrinse, clenching, or even an allergy to existing restorations can cause this. If you notice that it is along your occlusal plane, this is due to clenching. In that situation, consult with your dentist about getting a night guard. If it is in fluctuating areas, try to remember if you recently changed anything in your routine. Switch back to your old toothpaste or mouth rinse. Also, adding warm salt water rinses to your regimen can help. Personally, I notice sloughing of my mucosal right near my only amalgam filling during times of stress. Amalgam contains trace amounts of nickel. Those with nickel allergies sometimes have slight reactions. Consider all of these possibilities and remember there is nothing to be alarmed about!