A Complete Guide To Wisdom Teeth Management And Dental Risk Prevention

The management of wisdom teeth and the prevention of dental risks work hand in hand. Complications can cause severe pain or damage to surrounding teeth. Dental professionals know how to reduce the pain and swelling caused by a wisdom tooth issue. By following a guide to manage wisdom teeth and mitigate risks, patients can get the relief they need without risking additional health complications.

What Are the Causes of Wisdom Teeth Pain?

A lack of space for wisdom teeth is the primary reason for pain. When wisdom teeth are most likely to break through the gums in adolescence, many patients lack room for wisdom teeth. As a result, wisdom teeth can cause pain and discomfort as they push against the molars to erupt. Breaking through the gums is quite uncomfortable for most people, even if they have space for the wisdom tooth.

It is imperative to note, however, that an impacted wisdom tooth can cause more extensive pain. The reason for more extensive pain is that an impacted wisdom tooth may break through the gums at an angle and not move into place correctly. Additionally, an impacted tooth may not push through the gums and create pockets around the molars. Food and bacteria can accumulate under the gums because of these pockets. The accumulation of food and bacteria under the gums can cause damage not only to the wisdom tooth but also to the adult molars that are situated nearby.

Infected Wisdom Teeth

An infected wisdom tooth can cause tremendous pain and place the individual at risk of further complications. Infections can spread from the wisdom tooth and enter the bloodstream, causing infections throughout the body. Symptoms of a severe wisdom tooth infection include swelling of the face, mouth, and neck. Suppose a client has an infected wisdom tooth. In that case, the only option is to visit their dentist to obtain antibiotics to eliminate the infection. A dentist can remove the wisdom tooth once the infection has cleared up and prevent further infections in the future.

An Abscessed Wisdom Tooth

Pus accumulating within the wisdom tooth pulp or between the gum tissue and the tooth’s root creates an abscess. An abscessed wisdom tooth causes pain and discomfort, and the dentist must remove the wisdom tooth to prevent further abscesses. In addition, an impacted wisdom tooth often causes abscesses if the gum flap forms and bacteria and food accumulate inside.

When people cannot reach their wisdom teeth when brushing their teeth, they can develop abscesses. The gum flap also makes it difficult for the person to remove bacteria and food from the wisdom tooth so that it remains clean and germ-free. When the pus flows from the wisdom tooth, the person experiences an unpleasant taste in their mouth.

Dentigerous Cysts Around Wisdom Teeth

It is common for dentigerous or follicular cysts to form around impacted wisdom teeth. According to dentists, cysts are not dangerous and will not cause an infection in the body. Despite this, the cysts become painful and grow in size rapidly. A liquid often fills these cysts, and dentists can drain the fluid to relieve pain.

What Are Remedies for Wisdom Teeth Pain Relief?

Dentists recommend many options for wisdom tooth pain relief. They apply a numbing gel around the tooth to ease pain, and the client takes ibuprofen to control inflammation. Using an ice pack at intervals of 15 minutes relieves the pain and helps to reduce any swelling.

A salt water rinse effectively treats infections, removes abscesses, and reduces inflammation. In addition, many dental professionals recommend placing cloves, tea bags, or onion slices around the wisdom tooth for fast pain relief. However, the only permanent solution for wisdom tooth pain is to extract the tooth.

An oral surgeon takes X-rays of the wisdom tooth and plans its extraction. Impacted wisdom teeth require surgical removal.

Wisdom teeth can cause pain if infected, abscessed, cystic, or impacted. Many dental professionals recommend home remedies and solutions to ease the pain until they can extract the tooth. An infection requires antibiotic treatment, and the patient must wait until the infection has cleared before arranging an extraction. A dental professional takes an X-ray to check the tooth for complications. Visit a dentist for more information about managing wisdom teeth and relieving pain.

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You Can Improve Your Life And Your Smile With Cosmetic Dentistry

Although cosmetic dentistry can improve a person’s appearance, it also goes beyond that. Dentists can alter a patient’s smile using various methods to offer multiple benefits. For example, as the dentist treats each person individually, they may use inlays or dental implants.

female cosmetic dentistry patient receiving treatment

Many people are unaware that the effects of treatment go beyond superficial. For example, white teeth can make a person feel and look better, even though they do not affect their ability to chew food. If a person is unhappy with their smile, this is just one reason to consider cosmetic dentistry. What are the benefits of cosmetic dentistry, you ask?

Enhanced Appearance

Cosmetic dentistry can improve your appearance, as we have already mentioned. A person’s actions reflect their self-esteem. They can make an excellent first impression, and their interactions with other people will change. If they are happy with how their appearance looks, they will not hide it or be shy about meeting new people. They can achieve the perfect smile with cosmetic dentistry.

Cosmetic dentistry can make someone look older, which is something many don’t know. It is not the magic bullet that people seek for their youth, but it can make a person look younger. They feel younger when they appear younger.

Better Diet and Digestion

A person with dental problems might have difficulty eating a wide variety of food. Chewing can be difficult if one or more of your teeth is missing. Difficulty chewing also happens if a person has a bad bite and cannot properly chew. In addition, the inability to digest food can cause problems. Although a problem with a tooth may appear to be minor, it is not always. Inlays and onlays are cosmetic treatments that strengthen the teeth. Their diet may improve as a result.

Improved Self-esteem

The self-confidence and self-esteem of a person can impact every aspect of their lives. A beautiful, healthy smile is something that people share. They feel more confident interacting with people, and their relationships are better. People don’t have to be afraid of their smiles.

Enhanced Finances

Cosmetic work can save both men and women money. In addition, the dentist will correct any problems with your teeth, such as chipped or cracked teeth. Fixing issues with your teeth prevents future costly damage.

A dental implant, for example, protects bone and gum tissue against erosion. It also ensures that adjacent teeth do not shift. The future cost of expensive dental treatment can result from bone or gum tissue changes and shifting teeth. Therefore, the dental implant is a restorative treatment, not a cosmetic procedure.

A confident smile can also improve your chances of getting a job. Smiles make a good impression, and employers see you as self-confident and prepared to take on the job. Employers value trust. Employers want employees who are positive and can draw in customers. Healthy smiles are a great way to do that.

Cosmetic dentistry can transform your smile. You’ll regret not taking this step sooner if you can see the benefits. But, you don’t have to wait until it is too late. Make an appointment now.

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Learn How To Keep Gums Healthy

When most people think about maintaining good oral health, their minds immediately wander to teeth, not gums. No matter how pearly white and cavity-free a person’s teeth are, though, that won’t prevent gum disease.

dentist examines female patient's mouth

Gum disease occurs when plaque builds up along and beneath the gum line. This sticky substance is filled with bacteria, which can infect both gum tissues and bone. Gum disease starts as gingivitis, which can cause bleeding, swelling, tenderness, and inflammation. It then progresses to periodontitis if left untreated. Periodontitis damages connective tissues and bone and will eventually lead to tooth loss.

Because gum disease is non-symptomatic in its earliest phases, many people erroneously believe their gums are healthy when they are not. Instead of assuming the best until severe symptoms start popping up, read on to find out how to keep gums healthy from the beginning.

Brush Properly

Brushing isn’t just about keeping teeth clean. When appropriately performed, it also helps prevent plaque from building up along the gumline. To get rid of all that plaque before it can do any damage, brush twice a day and make a point of holding the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle when brushing along the gum line.

Floss Daily

Like brushing, flossing isn’t just about keeping teeth clean. It also removes plaque and food particles between a person’s teeth and gums. Leaving all that plaque in place can lead to tartar buildup, which can, in turn, lead to gum disease. Only dentists and dental hygienists can safely remove tartar from a patient’s gum line. Still, anyone can floss daily to prevent it from building up.

Use Mouthwash

There are plenty of effective types of mouthwash available over the counter. These products can help reduce plaque buildup, remove food particles from hard-to-reach places, reduce the speed of tartar buildup, and subsequently prevent gum disease.

There are two things to keep in mind when using mouthwash. The first is that it’s essential to choose products that have been deemed safe and effective by the American Dental Association, which will be indicated by an ADA seal on the packaging. The second is that mouthwash should never be used to replace brushing and flossing.

Quit Smoking

People who smoke cigarettes are much more susceptible to gum disease. Because they have weakened immune systems, smokers are less able to fend off bacterial infections. Quitting smoking can help to prevent gum disease and reverse gingivitis when it’s caught in the earliest stages.

Know When to Rinse

Many people rinse their mouths out after brushing, flossing, or using mouthwash. Unfortunately, this common practice can hinder the effectiveness of fluoride-containing products such as toothpaste. Rinsing out the mouth after brushing washes away not just any dislodged food particles but also all the beneficial ingredients found in oral care products. Therefore it’s better to use mouthwash and spit it out instead of rinsing.

While it’s unwise to rinse right after brushing, it is a good idea for people to rinse their mouths out after eating. Of course, it’s not necessary to brush after every meal and snack or even to use mouthwash. However, rinsing with water can help prevent food particles from getting lodged between teeth and rinse out the bacteria that can lead to plaque buildup along the gums.

Prioritize Professional Dental Care

No explanation of how to keep your gums healthy would be complete without mentioning the importance of routine dental care. Experts recommend visiting the dentist for cleanings and exams at least once every six months. A three-month cleaning schedule is even better for people who already have uncontrolled gum disease.

While following all of the advice above at home can help prevent gum disease, it won’t replace professional dental care. Only dental hygienists can safely remove tartar buildup, which can occur along the gumline despite a person’s best intentions. Therefore, anyone who wants to maintain optimal gum health must prioritize professional dental care.

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Removing Wisdom Teeth – What Every Patient Must Know

Has your doctor recommended you have wisdom teeth pulled? This procedure involves the removal of permanent adult teeth situated in the back corners of the mouth. An adult has two wisdom teeth on the top and two on the bottom, and the dentist may advise you to have one or more pulled. A failure to remove these teeth could lead to them becoming impacted. Impacted wisdom teeth cause pain and could bring about an infection or other problems. For this reason, a dentist or oral surgeon will remove them. What does a person need to know about this procedure before consenting to have it done?

male washington dc wisdom tooth removal surgeon treating female patient

Reasons for Wisdom Tooth Removal

Wisdom teeth usually appear in individuals between the ages of 17 and 25. The dentist sees the third set of molars on X-rays and recommends removing them if the dentist detects any of the following issues. Impacted teeth are those which become trapped in the gums or jawbone and fail to erupt. If the molars erupt, they may press against other teeth because they didn’t come in at the right angle.

Some people lack the room in their mouth for the third set of molars. This lack of space often leads to cavities or gum disease, as the person cannot reach the teeth to brush or floss them properly. The dentist recommends their removal to treat existing dental issues resulting from the overcrowding and prevent future ones. If your dentist recommends wisdom teeth removal, ask why they feel it is necessary and the best course of treatment.

Preparing for Surgery

Individuals should speak to their dentist to learn how to prepare for surgery. Depending on the extent of the procedure, the dentist may refer the patient to an oral surgeon. Learn what type of anesthesia the dentist utilizes and whether you will need someone to drive you home. Ask if you must stop prescription medications before the procedure and whether food and drink are permitted in the hours leading up to the removal of the wisdom teeth.

During the Procedure

Patients receive anesthesia before the procedure, so they don’t experience any pain. The dentist determines whether local anesthesia will be enough or if the patient needs IV sedation or general anesthesia. The oral surgeon might need to cut the bone or gums to remove the teeth. If this becomes necessary, they stitch the incision site to prevent infection and encourage healing of the area. Most oral surgeons use dissolvable stitches. Furthermore, oral surgeons may use gauze pads to soak up any blood resulting from the removal.

The Recovery Process

Patients may need to spend time in a recovery room following the procedure to ensure no problems arise depending on the sedation used. Expect some bleeding and oozing from the incision site, and avoid spitting, so the blood clot remains in place. The oral surgeon will provide pain medication or suggest over-the-counter pain medicine, and ice packs become of great help in managing any swelling and bruising.

Avoid physical activity following the procedure and restrict your diet to soft foods for 24 hours. Consume lots of water, but avoid using a straw. Doing so could dislodge the blood clot. Follow the oral surgeon’s instructions regarding cleaning your mouth. Finally, don’t smoke. Doing so slows the healing process while increasing the risk of complications.

Ask questions regarding the surgery. You should feel comfortable with having this work done before proceeding. Work with the dentist to ensure you are before the procedure, as it will make the entire process easier.

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Dental Implants Are A Proven Way To Improve Your Smile

In addition to making someone’s smile unattractive, missing teeth can also affect their ability to chew and speak. The appearance of your smile may negatively impact all areas of your life when you’re missing one or more teeth. Fortunately, there are methods to replace your teeth. Dental implants can permanently replace missing teeth for individuals who need a solution to their missing teeth.

washington dc implant dentist treating dental implant patient

What Are Dental Implants?

An empty socket in the mouth occurs when one or more teeth are missing. To successfully replace this missing tooth, dentists place a dental implant in the socket. Dental implants have titanium roots designed to replace the original tooth root. With a crown permanently attached, a person can smile confidently and enjoy consuming a variety of foods.

Since titanium is the one and only material that bonds with a person’s bone tissue, manufacturers make dental implants out of titanium. Upon implanting the titanium implant, bone cells begin to grow around it. A dental implant acts precisely as a tooth root when the bone cells multiply around it.

The Causes of Missing Teeth?

Missing teeth can be problematic for people of every age. But, first, a person must understand why they might suffer tooth loss or be lacking specific teeth. Listed below are a few examples.

  • One of the main reasons a tooth falls out is tooth decay. The decay breaks the teeth down. As a result, the tooth begins to loosen and eventually falls out. If a tooth becomes severely decayed, a dentist will extract it.
  • Genetic conditions sometimes cause teeth to not develop properly in a person. Occasionally, people who suffer from ectodermal dysplasia will have difficulty forming their smiles.
  • Injuries can also result in the loss of a tooth. For example, an injury to the mouth caused by blunt force trauma can lead to teeth falling out or being broken.

How to Prepare for Dental Implants?

Dental implants require a series of dental appointments and surgical interventions. The implant dentist first designs a treatment plan tailored to the patient’s needs in the first step. Following that, the implant dentist places the titanium post.

In the area where the tooth is absent, an implant dentist inserts a tiny titanium post. After the implant dentist places the implant, it will take around twelve weeks to fuse to the bone fully. In the next step, the implant dentist opens up gum tissue and adds an abutment. It is necessary to have an abutment to hold the crown in position.

The oral surgeon will get X-rays and create impressions of the mouth before placing the crown. Implants and crowns should be perfectly fitted to complement the patient’s neighboring teeth.

Dentists can place an attachment on the implant rod for some patients. Denture plates are anchored with these attachments. These denture plates offer a better chewing experience than traditional dentures because they remain in place more securely.

Make an Appointment

A consultation appointment with an implant dentist is the initial step toward discovering the benefits of dental implants. Once an implant dentist has examined the patient, they will determine whether dental implants are a good option and design a treatment plan.

It is possible for dental implants to last for a lifetime. Titanium rods will never need to be extracted, and they will never fall out of place. In addition, by adding a dental crown, the dentist allows a person to regain self-confidence and feel confident eating their favorite foods.

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What Should You Know About General Dentistry?

General dentistry is a medical practice that provides care for teeth by preventing, diagnosing, evaluating, and treating oral cavities. General dentistry focuses on preserving the appearance and healthy state of teeth. In addition, general dentists are focused on ensuring your real teeth remain in good condition for a long time. They also make sure any diagnosed oral problems get the required help from a specialist and on time.

woman smiling in dental chair at general dentist's office

Up to 80% of dentist practitioners usually practice general dentistry as it’s regarded as primary dental care.

General Dentistry Services

General dentists are not limited to a specific area of dental specialization; however, they provide various dental services. They can also treat persons of every age. General dentists offer the following services:

  • Dental exams
  • Oral cancer screening
  • Professional teeth cleaning
  • X-rays
  • Dental sealing
  • Cavity fillings
  • Dental crowns
  • Gingivitis treatment
  • Dental bridges
  • Removable dentures
  • Cosmetic dentistry
  • Tooth extractions
  • Restorative dentistry
  • TMD treatment
  • Root canal treatment

Several general dentists are specialists in restorative dentistry and cosmetic dentistry.

When Should a General Dentist be Visited?

Teeth are an essential part of the body as they facilitate the grinding of food that helps our body grow. Since we eat daily, we face the risk of having oral health problems. Based on current widely-accepted health guidelines, we should go to a dentist whenever we feel uncomfortable about an oral issue or at least at six-month intervals.

However, most people will usually visit a dentist as a last resort, which is not a good process. Visiting a dentist regularly or upon the first signs of an ache or teeth issues can help prevent oral problems. Any oral health problem diagnosed at an early stage can be stopped and treated sooner. If you want to have your natural teeth longer, you have to start making routine visits to a dentist.

What Happens During a Visit with a Dentist?

The dentist first checks the condition of your gums and teeth, often accompanied by screening for oral cancer. The oral cancer screening examines for any suspicious signs within the oral cavity. Then you will undergo a professional dental cleaning conducted with special instruments to clean away any plaque deposits that remain despite regular flossing and brushing. After that, the dentist may recommend or carry out more procedures depending on the condition of your gums and teeth.

In Conclusion

In order to maintain good health, oral hygiene is essential. Many oral health problems and diseases can indicate underlying health problems. Brushing and flossing at least twice daily and seeing your general dentist twice a year are necessary to ensure healthy teeth and gums.

A dentist is a partner for your health, so choosing one shouldn’t be taken lightly. However, finding the right general dentist for you can be a challenge.

Find a dentist that is well-known in your area. You can search for a dentist through word of mouth or online directories. Any reputable dentist will have a website or social media pages to build up their clientele. Find out how long the dentist has been in business if they have any certifications and their experience. Doing this research is very important. A very experienced dentist or whose website boasts multiple years of experience is a far better choice than one who has just gotten out of school. Your teeth are very delicate and can be prone to damage. An experienced dentist can help you avoid more significant issues and is a better partner for your health.

Start with a consultation. A consultation is essential not only for the dentist but for you as well. By having a consultation, you can get a sense of what they can do for you and know if they’re the right fit.

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Your Bleeding Gums Require Prompt Treatment

Bleeding gums can happen to anyone, but it is a sign that no one should ignore. When a person develops bleeding gum issues, poor oral hygiene is often the cause. With this guide, individuals will learn about bleeding gums, what causes them, and the treatment.

What Are Bleeding Gums?

Bleeding gums are one of the most common symptoms people experience when they have gingivitis. Gingivitis is the precursor to periodontal disease. Other health concerns may also be the cause of bleeding gums. When a person brushes or flosses and finds their gums begin to bleed, it is essential to discover the bleeding gums causes right away.

teeth and gums of female patient being examined by a dentist

What Causes Bleeding Gums

Occasional bleeding gum issues may be caused by brushing too aggressively or using a hard toothbrush. In addition, ill-fitting dentures can sometimes cause bleeding gums to develop. The following are some of the reasons a person may experience issues with bleeding in their gum tissue.

  • Periodontitis is advanced gum disease and is the leading cause of gum bleeding.
  • Leukemia, which is a cancer of the blood, can also cause bleeding gums.
  • Vitamin deficiencies can also cause a person’s gums to bleed.
  • Blood thinners and a lack of platelets also cause gum bleeding.

If a person notices their toothbrush is pink or after brushing that their spit is reddish, it is time to investigate the underlying cause. The dentist is the best source for getting help with bleeding gums, and they offer treatments that can stop the bleeding and gum sensitivity.

How Are Bleeding Gums Diagnosed

While minor bleeding will happen occasionally, you should never ignore ongoing bleeding in the gums. For most people, good oral hygiene is the most effective way to prevent gums from bleeding.

When seeing the dentist, individuals will first give a thorough health history and discuss any medications they take. This information is essential for helping the dentist discover the underlying cause of bleeding gums.

The dentist will also examine the patient’s mouth and discuss any additional symptoms that may be occurring. The dentist’s findings will determine a treatment plan to address the patient’s oral health issues and stop the bleeding. With treatment, you can reverse your bleeding gums.

How Are Bleeding Gums Treated?

Treatment for bleeding gums will depend on the underlying cause. Of course, if there is leukemia or a vitamin deficiency to blame, these issues will be treated by the patient’s primary physician.

If the gum tissue is bleeding because of gingivitis or periodontal disease, the dentist will offer treatment. The dentist will carefully clean the teeth for gingivitis, and the patient is encouraged to brush and floss at least twice a day. The dentist will likely prescribe a medicated mouth rinse to help keep the gum infection under control.

Periodontal disease needs more integrative treatment. Dentists and periodontists utilize scaling and planing treatments to remove plaque below the gumline. During scaling and planing treatments, the dentist uses special tools to clean the tooth roots. In severe cases, a patient may require periodontal surgery to prevent tooth loss.

Get Bleeding Gum Help Today

Bleeding gums are not something a person should ignore because they need bleeding gums treatment from the dentist. However, this is a sign that requires further investigation. If someone is dealing with bleeding gums, they should schedule an appointment with their dentist promptly.

With a complete examination, the dentist can discover the cause of the gum bleeding and offer solutions that will bring the gum infection under control and allow the gum tissue to heal.

Treatment for severe cases of bleeding gums takes time. Therefore, it is essential individuals see their dentists regularly and brush and floss as often as directed.

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What Patients Need To Know About Periodontal Disease

Dental patients must follow all oral hygiene practices to avoid periodontal disease. Gum disease can take over the mouth and cause the patient to lose their teeth. Dental professionals can provide information about the disease and treatment options.

What Is Periodontitis?

Dental patients may ask, “what is gum disease?” Peridontitis is permanent yet preventable gum disease. It causes bacteria and infections in the mouth that could destroy the gums and the bone supporting the teeth. As it progresses, pockets form around the gum line, allowing bacteria to grow and cause severe infections and abscesses. If it is not treated, the patient will lose all their teeth.

Dentists can answer the question, “what does gum disease look like?” Essentially, it will look different at each stage. It could start as cavities that were not filled and broken or damaged teeth that were not repaired or extracted. Any instance where bacteria can thrive in the mouth may lead to gum disease.

What Are The Symptoms?

A review of gum disease symptoms shows that it starts with swollen and puffy gums that may bleed. The gums will become purplish as the disease advances. Patients may experience excessive gum bleeding when brushing, bad breath, loose teeth, pain when chewing foods, and receding gums. Any of these signs may indicate periodontitis and requires a trip to the dentist.

What Causes It?

There are many causes of gum disease, and here are the most common reasons:

  • A failure to brush the teeth and remove plaque.
  • Gingivitis that has formed in the gums must be treated to lower the risk of periodontal disease.
  • Smoking and tobacco use increase the risk of periodontal disease and could damage the teeth and gums.
  • Hormonal changes such as pregnancy can increase the risks of gum disease.
  • Improper nutrition and vitamin deficiencies can lead to gum and tooth problems.
  • Medical conditions such as HIV/AIDS, cancer, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and Crohn’s disease are all causes of gum disease.

How Does the Dentist Treat It?

When reviewing the best gum disease treatment, it depends significantly on the patient and the current stage of the disease. The dentist can perform scaling and planing services to eliminate bacteria and damaged gum tissue. They will remove food particles and debris from inside the gum pockets and assess the condition of the teeth. They can also provide antibiotics for infections and abscesses.

Doctors can also perform surgical procedures to provide a correction. For example, they can remove the gums’ pockets and perform bone or tissue grafts to correct the damage. The dentist can also apply tissue-stimulating proteins to help the gum tissue grow back.

The only permanent solution for late-stage gum disease is to extract all the teeth and repair the gums. Unfortunately, at this stage, the teeth are often rotten and full of cavities.

Are There Complications?

Yes, dental patients who have gum disease are at a greater risk of coronary artery disease. This increased risk is because the frequency of infections in the mouth determines how often infections enter the bloodstream. And, if they are left untreated, the patient is at a greater risk of having a heart attack or stroke because of bacterial growth in the body. Therefore, at the first sign of a tooth infection, the patient must seek help from their dental professional.

Dental patients could develop periodontal disease if they do not follow all oral hygiene practices every day. The disease takes over the gums and teeth, and it could lead to complete tooth loss. At the first signs of gingivitis, the patient needs to get fast treatment to prevent gum disease. Patients can learn more about the condition by setting up an appointment with a dentist now.

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