My Gums Bleed When I Brush. What Does It Mean?

If you've noticed some bleeding after you brush or floss your teeth, it's most likely an early sign of gingivitis - a condition that causes your gums to swell due to the accumulation of plaque. Gingivitis is not a serious health risk in and of itself; however, if left untreated, gingivitis can lead to more serious issues like periodontitis and bone loss.

A patient with gingivitis will usually have red, puffy gums, especially after brushing or flossing. Fortunately, proper oral hygiene will usually resolve gingivitis. In other words, if you can improve your dental care routine, you may be able to cure gingivitis on your own, without having to make a trip to the dentist's office. Some patients find that using an antiseptic mouthwash along with proper brushing and flossing helps prevent gingivitis.

It should be noted that not every case of gingivitis is caused by plaque. Sometimes, gingivitis is the result of a specific virus, bacteria or fungus. Other cases may be caused by trauma, reaction to foreign bodies or even genetic factors. If you find that your gingivitis is not going away, even with improved oral hygiene, it may be that your condition is a non-plaque induced gingival disease. Talk to your dentist about the possible causes for your condition and the necessary treatment.

If you're not sure whether you have gingivitis or not, here are a few common symptoms to be mindful of:

• Bright red or purple gums
• Gums are tender, uncomfortable
• Gums are painful to the touch
• Bad breath (halitosis)
• Gums appear puffy and swollen
• Gums have receded

If you have noticed any of the above symptoms, don't hesitate to contact Dr. Melcher. These may not be serious risks to your health at first, but if left untreated it could lead to significant problems in the future. Implant and General Dentistry is open Monday through Friday from 8am to 5pm. Call us at 919-782-0548 or visit us online to schedule an appointment.

What is Root Planing and Why is it Done?

Root planing is a technique dentists use to stop the adverse effects of periodontal disease. It involves a procedure in which the dentist will thoroughly clean below the patient's gum line (known as scaling), then smooth the roots or the tooth (or teeth). The purpose of smoothing the roots is to help facilitate gum reattachment and prevent bacteria from spreading. When the roots are smooth, the gum tissue is more prone to reattach itself and is less vulnerable to the accumulation of bacteria.

This technique is also known as "conventional periodontal therapy" or "non-surgical periodontal therapy." It is effective against fighting mild cases of periodontitis, sometimes only requiring one session to achieve the desired results. However, for moderate to severe periodontal patients, root planing and scaling may be the initial therapy prior to surgery.

If your dentist has suggested a root planing procedure for your dental health, you may be a little nervous but rest assured, the procedure is not as uncomfortable as it sounds. Your dentist will most likely use a local anesthetic to numb your gums and the roots of your teeth. Most patients experience little to no discomfort during the process.

Like many dental and medical procedures, there are a few risks involved. Root planing and scaling can introduce harmful bacteria into the bloodstream. Dr. Melcher may prescribe antibiotics for you to take before and after the procedure. Be sure to let us know if you have a condition that makes you vulnerable to infection, such as an immune deficiency or recent surgery. If you have any questions about this procedure, schedule an appointment with Dr. Simon Melcher, D.D.S of Implant & General Dentistry by visiting us online or calling 919-782-0548.

Do Water Irrigation Systems Replace the Need for Flossing?

Oral irrigation products like Waterpik systems or water jets can be very useful in removing retained food particles from hard-to-reach areas between your teeth. However, using these systems should not replace your daily flossing routine. These devices help dislodge bits of food that can sometimes get stuck between teeth, but they do not help in removing plaque. Only regular brushing and flossing (along with regular dentist check-ups) can keep plaque buildup at bay and maintain a truly healthy smile.

Of course, if your dentist has recommended you use a water irrigation system for your teeth, you should follow your dentist's advice. These products can be very effective for people whose traditional manual oral hygiene is less than ideal. In some cases, a dentist will recommend an oral irrigation system along with antibacterial solutions to help maintain the health of periodontal patients. Patients who may benefit from oral irrigation the most include those with orthodontic appliances, implants, crown and bridge work, diabetes, or gingivitis.

Like any other self-care dental device, oral irrigation systems are most effective when used on a daily basis - unless your dentist instructs you to do otherwise. These devices should be a complementary action to a patient's daily dental care routine - it should NOT be a substitute for it.

For more information on water irrigation devices for your dental health, talk to Dr. Simon Melcher. He can help you determine if using these devices is right for you and your lifestyle. Contact Implant & General Dentistry at our website or call us at 919-782-0548 to schedule an appointment.

What Causes Gum Disease?

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, occurs when bacteria builds up along the gum line. This buildup, when left untreated, will start to irritate the gum line, eventually leading to an inflammation reaction. When a person's gums become irritated and inflamed, swelling and bleeding can occur. This further exacerbates the situation, allowing more bacteria to irritate the gum tissue and the existing bacteria to travel deeper below the gum line.

If this condition is left untreated, the bacteria may even travel all the way to the mouth and jaw bone, resulting in demineralization. When demineralization occurs, the bone can actually break down and dissolve, which then leads to bone loss and eventually tooth loss. Once the bone material surrounding a tooth breaks down, the tooth has nothing to support it. Even if the tooth is relatively healthy, it could still fall out due to improper gum care.

As you can see, gum disease is something that starts out as a minor problem, but it can quickly escalate into a major health issue. Almost like a domino effect, where one thing leads to another and so on, untreated periodontal disease can cause significant damage to a person's gums, bone and teeth - usually in that order. To prevent periodontal disease, make a habit of brushing and flossing regularly, as well as visiting your dentist for professional cleanings and check-ups every six months.

If you feel you may have periodontal disease, feel free to call our office at 919-782-0548 to schedule an appointment. We can help put you on the right track to treatment while offering helpful advice for future prevention. Our full service dental office is open Monday through Friday from 8 am to 5 pm. Call or visit us online to schedule an appointment.

Mouthguards for Children While Playing Sports

Should my child wear a mouthguard while playing sports? The answer is yes and so should you! Please don’t think that mouthguards are just for kids who play football and hockey. The American Dental Association’s website cites several studies that have shown the benefit of mouthguard protection, even for noncontact sports such as gymnastics and skateboarding. In fact, the research conducted by those in the field of sports dentistry reveals that, “everyone, from children to adults, should wear a mouthguard during any recreational activity that might pose a risk of injury to the mouth, including practice and training sessions.”

Since the use of mouthguards has been shown to reduce the risk of injury significantly, as a parent, you must make it your job to see that your child’s teeth are protected. Injuries that cause severe damage to the dental structure can be very painful, potentially disfiguring, and often require months of corrective therapy. This is why the ADA endorses the preventive value of orofacial protectors. According to the ADA’s site, those include helmets, faceguards, and mouth protectors. They should be used by anyone participating in activities where there are any levels of injury risk.

Mouthguards are essential for anyone with braces or bridgework. They can act as a cushion between the soft tissue of your lips, tongue, gums, and cheeks. They can also serve as a shock absorber and limit the damage caused by an injury. Mouthguards are made of a very flexible material and come in several different models.

• One size fits all-inexpensive ones
• Boil and custom fit models
• Custom made mouthguards from your dentist, which will have the best fit

All mouthguards should:

• Be odorless and tasteless
• Be tear resistant
• Easy to clean
• Stay firmly in place
• Not limit talking or breathing
• Be replaced with any signs of wear

Usually mouthguards are just for the upper teeth. However, for those with braces, bridges, or retainers on the lower teeth, having your dentist make a custom mouthguard is advised.

Give us Dr. Simon Melcher of Implant and General Dentistry a call if you have any questions: 919-782-0548.

Caring for a Child's Baby Teeth

Why is it important to fix baby teeth that have decay; aren’t they going to come out soon anyway? The condition of a child’s teeth and gums establishes their future dental health, which is why it is vital to take excellent care of them. Even though they will lose their baby teeth, when decay is present, it will impact the development of the permanent teeth.

Unfortunately, today’s children are exposed to more sugary and processed foods than ever before. That fact alone is why parents of young children need to be extra diligent about their children’s oral health. Cavities form very quickly with youngsters, which is also why it is so important to help them brush and take care of their teeth. Although baby teeth will come out, when tooth decay is present, the permanent teeth will suffer. Common problems that occur when early childhood dental care is overlooked are:

• Weak permanent teeth
• Teeth that come in stained
• Pits and irregularities within the tooth enamel

Think of the baby teeth and their supporting gums as the foundation for the permanent teeth. When that foundation is jeopardized, the child’s future dental health is on shaky ground. Establishing good habits and making regular visits to your family dentist will ensure that your child’s oral health is on the right track and stays there! See Dr. Simon Melcher to ensure the health of your children's teeth, now and in the future.

When Should My Children First See the Dentist?

According to the American Dental Association and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentists, children should be seen within the first year or within 6 months after their first tooth comes in (See: Kids' Dental Care Tips for Parents). This may seem too soon, however, early dental visits are key in establishing good dental health and learning how to prevent tooth decay. Here are a few topics that a dentist will address with their youngest patients and their parents:

• Tricks and methods for brushing and keeping a baby or toddler’s mouth and baby teeth healthy
• What are the child’s fluoride needs?
• When and how to begin using toothpaste?
• What type of tools to use with very small children, such as a washcloth or very soft toothbrush?
• How to prevent ECC or Early Childhood Caries that are often associated with drinking from or falling asleep with a bottle?
• What to expect and how to help your child adjust to the pain of teething?
• If there are any beginning signs of decay and what to do to avoid any future problems.

Bringing your children to the dentist early will help them become familiar with the dental visit experience and they are less likely to be fearful. Of course, it will also help them establish good dental hygiene habits for life!

Call 919-782-0548 to schedule an appointment for your child with Dr.Simon Melcher at Implant and General Dentistry in Raleigh, NC.

When is the Best Time to Remove Wisdom Teeth?

Most dentists agree that wisdom teeth should be taken out when the dental roots are 2/3 developed. This usually coincides with the adolescent years when there is less risk of nerve damage and young patients also tend to heal faster. Another reason this is an excellent time is because removing the wisdom teeth will also clear the way for any future orthodontic procedures.
The teeth found in the very back of the mouth on both sides, in the upper and lower rows, are the molars. The first ones come in around age 6, and the next ones are present around age 12. The third molars, also known as wisdom teeth, are usually ready to emerge between the ages of 16 and 21. Unfortunately, even though the third set of molars are fully functioning teeth, when they are ready to appear, there may no longer be room for them.

Some people have room for the third set of molars and they cause no problems. However, for many, it is necessary to remove them.

• When the wisdom teeth begin to poke through the gums, they should come out. Even though surprisingly, in some cases, this may not be causing the patient pain, it increases the risk of bacterial infection.
• Removing them is also necessary when they are expected to grow in and crowd the existing teeth, which will cause them to shift.
• Sometimes, a wisdom tooth becomes inflamed and a fluid-filled sac will surround it. This causes swelling and the surrounding tissue and bone matter may be affected.
• Even when the other two sets of molars and the permanent teeth are in place, wisdom teeth that show no signs of coming in should still be removed before they become impacted or trapped in the jaw.
• Wisdom teeth that have come in but prevent the patient from being able to brush and floss properly should be extracted.

If you have questions or concerns about wisdom teeth, it is best to visit your dentist for a thorough evaluation. Call Dr. Simon Melcher at 919-782-0548 or visit his website. You can also learn more here: Dental Treatments - Wisdom Teeth

What is a Root Canal?

Did you know that just like an orange, your teeth contain something called pulp? The pulp that is inside your teeth contains connective tissue, blood vessels, and nerves. Should the pulp or nerves within a tooth become inflamed or infected, a root canal treatment may be the best way to eliminate the problem.

The painful inflammation within dental pulp or nerve tissue can be the result of a few things. A deep, untreated cavity is one cause. A patient who has had a repeated number of dental procedures may develop diseased pulp within one or more of their teeth. Of course an injury resulting in a cracked or chipped tooth could lead to this type of problem. There is also the possibility that you may have injured a tooth and be unaware of it. That’s because not all injured teeth cause pain or exhibit signs of trauma.

If your dentist or endodontist determines that the pulp or nerve tissue is inflamed or diseased, the next step may be to remove it. A dental professional’s goals will be to save the tooth and alleviate a patient’s discomfort. Ignoring the problem could lead to painful swelling, bone loss, and infection. A root canal is the procedure that will alleviate all that!

During a root canal, the diseased tissue will be cleaned in an effort to save as much of it as possible. After the tissue is evaluated, the dentist will then clean and seal the tooth’s pulp chamber and root canal. To prevent the occurrence of further problems, a rubberlike substance called gutta percha, is put into the tooth’s root canal. To preserve as much of the tooth as possible, it is often fitted with a permanent crown.

If you think you may need a root canal or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Melcher, please visit our website or call us at 919-782-0548.

Why Does My Jaw Pop When I Open It?

A popping sensation in the jaw is not uncommon. It happens most often when people open their mouths wide or when they eat. Unless your jaw locks or you experience pain when this happens, it's probably not something you need to worry about.

The jaw bone is separated from the base of the skull by a pad or disk, similar to the pad in other joints of the body. The primary cause of popping in your jaw is when the jaw bone 'pops' off that pad or disk.

The best way to avoid popping your jaw is to refrain from overextending it and try to be aware of any tension in the jaw muscles. Sometimes that 'pop' is unavoidable and will occur even when you aren't opening very wide. There are also people who are just predisposed to it.

Although an occasional jaw popping without any pain or locking is normal, you shouldn't try to pop your jaw deliberately. This may cause discomfort and possibly serious damage.

If you have more questions about your jaw or your dental health, please contact us at Implant and General Dentistry in Raleigh to schedule an appointment or consultation: 919-782-0548.

See Related Posts:
Implant and General Dentistry Dental Treatments, Raleigh NC

MouthHealthy.org Answers Your Dental Related Questions

The American Dental Association recently launched the website MouthHealthy.org.  It is designed as a resource for the public to find answers to dental related questions on products, conditions, nutrition, concerns, and more.  There is a whole section for kids and the resources on the site are divided by age group so you can easily access information most pertinent for you.

In addition to information on topics from A-Z, there is also a search function for users to find an ADA member dentist in your area and a slideshow featuring causes and solutions for the top ten dental symptoms.

We hope you take advantage of the information and resources available to you at MouthHealthy.org and call us at Implant and General Dentistry to go over any concerns you may have: 919-782-0548.

Teeth Whitening Treatments in Raleigh NC

Everyone wants a bright, white smile. Unfortunately it can be tough to keep your pearly whites from getting dingy, dull or yellowed.

Even with proper dental hygiene, many factors can affect the color of your teeth. Drinking coffees and sodas, smoking and even some medications can cause tooth discoloration.

By avoiding tobacco use, cutting back on food or drinks that stain your teeth and maintaining a healthy dental hygiene routine, you can avoid further discoloration. Keep in mind, however, that these practices alone won't necessarily give you the ultra white smile you so often see in magazines or television. If that's what you're looking for, you may need to consult your dentist about teeth whitening agents.

At our Raleigh NC office, we offer simple in-house teeth whitening treatments that are fast and effective. We also offer a range of over the counter products that can be used at home; however these methods will not work as quickly or dramatically as the procedures done in our office.

To learn more about teeth whitening in Raleigh NC, visit TheRaleighDentists.com or call us today at (919) 782-0548.

Is Your Pain Caused By TMJ?

Pain in your face, jaw, neck, and shoulders. Headaches. Bite problems. Popping sounds when opening and closing your mouth. Difficulty opening the mouth. All of these symptoms which can range from discomforting to debilitating can be caused by TMJ, or Temporomandibular Joint Disorder. The good news is that TMJ is treatable, and at Implant & General Dentistry we have many treatment options available.

What is TMJ?

TMJ is acute or chronic inflammation of the joint connecting the lower jaw and the skull. Some of the potential causes include an injury to the muscles in the jaw, head, or neck; teeth grinding or other action exerting a great deal of pressure on the joint (sometimes attributed to stress); or arthritis in the joint.

TMJ Treatments

We have several options when it comes to treating TMJ. These range from noninvasive approaches such as bite splints and bite guards, to medication, to more extensive procedures such as restorative dentistry or adjusting the bite. The recommended course of action will depend on the severity of the disorder and the cause.

To learn more or to schedule an appointment call Implant and General Dentistry today at 919-782-0548.

Smile Gallery - See How We Can Transform Your Smile

Visit our Smile Gallery at TheRaleighDentists.com to see how our dental treatments can transform your smile!  You'll see before and after photos of the treatments so you can really get an idea of the difference this dental work can make for your health and appearance.

From teeth whitening to veneers and implants, Dr, Simon Melcher has the knowledge, experience, and resources to give you a whiter, brighter, and healthier smile.  Give us a call today to schedule your appointment: (919) 782-0548.

Reviews for Implant and General Dentistry, Raleigh NC

We always appreciate the feedback we hear from our patients, whether in-person, online, or in the form of a referral.  Your feedback helps us improve our service and helps others know more about us.  We can tell people how great we are until we're blue in the face :) but recommendations mean so much more when they come from another patient.

We wanted to share some of our first-hand patient reviews and testimonials so you can read for yourself what others have to say about us.  You can get all of our latest reviews here:

Patient Testimonials

We also invite you to leave an online review for Implant and General Dentistry in Raleigh NC at one of the following places:

RateADentist - Implant and General Dentistry, Raleigh
Google Places - Implant and General Dentistry, Raleigh
Google Places - Dr. Simon Melcher 

Thank you so much for providing us with your valuable feedback.  We truly appreciate your time.

Video - Dental Treatments at Implant and General Dentistry, Raleigh NC

Dr. Simon Melcher at Implant and General Dentistry in Raleigh NC offers the following dental treatments for routine and cosmetic dentistry:Teeth Cleaning, Teeth Whitening, Implants, Dentures, Veneers, Bonding, Bridges, Crowns, Fillings, Inlays and Outlays.

Please request an appointment online or call us directly at (919) 782-0548.

Teeth Whitening Treatments at our Raleigh NC Office

Teeth Whitening is a popular cosmetic procedure at Implant & General Dentistry in Raleigh, NC.  Patients who are interested in teeth whitening have a few options. 

1. We can recommend over-the-counter whitening agents.  These products, however, will not whiten your teeth as quickly or as effectively as treatments delivered at our office.
2. Some whitening procedures are done in our office with one visit.
3. Additional use of the whitening treatment will produce improved results.

The procedure for in-house teeth whitening is demonstrated with descriptive photos here: Teeth Whitening, Raleigh NC.  Soft transparent trays are filled with the whitening gel.  The trays fit tightly over your teeth and are worn for the prescribed time, overnight or during the day.  Additional treatments produce improved results.

Some of the teeth whitening brands we offer and recommend at our Raleigh NC Dentist office include: Bravo, Brite Smile, Day White Excel 3, Night White Excel 3, NuproGold, Xtra Boost, Zoom, and Zoom 2.

To inquire further about teeth whitening treatments at Implant and General Dentistry in Raleigh, please request an appointment or call us at (919) 782-0548.

Routine Teeth Cleaning and Dental Hygiene

One of the most basic and most important services we provide for our patients is routine teeth cleaning including dental hygiene, oral exams, and annual x-rays. We schedule routine cleanings every six months for each patient and do our utmost to stay on schedule. If an appointment cannot be kept, whether by our schedule or yours, we will find the next best available time slot for you to come in.

Routine cleanings help us not only provide the best care for your teeth, they also allow us to diagnose any problems and ideally take steps to manage those problems before they develop further.

Our routine teeth cleanings also allow us to help educate you about brushing and flossing best practices to ensure that you're taking optimal care of your teeth between visits. We can point out potential trouble spots with your teeth and gums so you know where to pay extra attention during your own dental care.

Please contact us or request an appointment for your routine teeth cleaning and we'll get you on your way to a healthy mouth! 919-782-0548

Find us Online

Dr. Simon Melcher wants to make it easy for you to learn more about his practice at Implant and General Dentistry and to connect with him online.

In addition to our blog and website, Dr. Melcher can also be found in Google, Facebook, and YouTube as well as other local business sites. Here are some links to help you connect with Dr. Melcher online:

• Our Website: www.TheRaleighDentists.com
• Our Blog: TheRaleighDentists.blogspot.com
• YouTube: www.youtube.com/user/TheRaleighDentists
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/pages/Implant-and-General-Dentistry/195770077121309
• Google Places: maps.google.com/maps/place?q=dentist+raleigh+nc&hl=en&cid=16496568863670239301
• Google Profile: profiles.google.com/ImplantandGeneralDentistry/about
• Google+: https://plus.google.com/u/0/101181894628150727559/posts
• Our Reviews: rateadentist.com/com/rateadentist/view/officesummary/office-summary.jsf?_afPfm=tbsjkd58d

We appreciate your interest and support and hope to hear from you soon! 919-782-0548

Friendly Staff, Experienced Dentists

Here at Implant and General Dentistry in Raleigh NC, we take great care to provide comforting and friendly service as well as expert and experienced dentistry.

We understand that visits to the dentist may make some of our patients nervous or worried and we hope to alleviate that by educating our patients on the specfic procedures they require and on what they can expect before, during, and after the procedure. Our technicians and support staff are welcoming and we have a wealth of knowledge and experience in each treatment we provide.

If you are looking for a dentist in Raleigh, please give us a call and come in to meet with our staff and with Dr. Simon Melcher. We are confident that we can provide the dental services you need with the polite, friendly, and welcoming attitude that you desire.

You can reach us at 919-782-0548 or request an appointment directly through our website.