Dallas, TX Discusses the Differing Types of Dental X-Rays

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x-rayPeople who visit the dentist regularly for dental cleanings have some experience with dental x-rays. Yet, did you know that x-rays have varying types. In fact, each x-ray type serves an alternate purpose. To explain the nature of x-rays during dental cleanings, your Dallas, TX dentist, Dr. Diep Truong provides this post.

There’s More than One Dental X-Ray

  • Bite-wing. The distinct winged flaps of this x-ray type prove quite common during routine dental visits. The doctor may choose to complete these either once a year or during each six-month dental cleaning. The purpose of a bite-wing x-ray is to see any decay on the back molars. Additionally, bite-wing x-rays give a fairly clear view of the entire mouth.
  • Periapical. These x-rays tend to concentrate on one or two teeth at a time. While this type of x-ray mimics bite-wing x-rays almost to the letter, the periapical x-ray can view the entire tooth. From crown to root tip, the picture shows everything, allowing the doctor to pinpoint a specific problem.
  • Occlusal. The occlusal x-ray is typically performed on children since it’s larger and shows the development of teeth. With an occlusal x-ray, the doctor can see if any dental issues will occur in the future, to take necessary preventative steps.
  • Extraoral. While these x-rays show a clear picture of the mouth, it also shows the skull. Much like the occlusal x-ray, this type is commonly used on children because it makes tracking dental development and growth very simple.
  • Panoramic. Your Dallas, TX dentist can view your entire mouth with a panoramic x-ray. However, unlike the aforementioned x-rays, the panoramic type requires the use of a special machine. This unit requires the patients to stand motionless, while the head and jaw is held carefully in place. Then, the machine moves around your head, capturing your teeth and skull from a continuous angle. Moreover, panoramic x-rays produce less radiation, making these x-rays safer and more effective.
  • Cephalometric. Orthodontist use these x-rays more often than not. The picture displays the side of mouth and head, which allows the orthodontist to determine the correct type of orthodontic treatment.

Schedule Bi-Annual Dental Visits with Viva Dental

For an in-depth view of your teeth, a hygienist competes x-rays once a year during dental cleanings. If you have questions about dental x-rays, ask Dr. Truong. She can discuss your results with you and proceed with the proper treatment—should you require any. To schedule an appointment with our Dallas, TX dental practice, call us at (214) 337-7800. Also, visit our website for services, reviews, to learn more about our dental team. We happily serve new and existing patients in North Oak Cliff, Kessler Park, Duncanville, Grand Prairie, Richardson, Carrolton, Garland, Addison, Farmers Branch, and nearby suburbs.

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Learn How Your Dallas Dentist Brightens Smiles with Today’s Quiz

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whitening

Over time, a variety of factors can lead to stained teeth. The foods and drinks we consume, poor oral hygiene, and even the use of certain antibiotics may discolor the outer enamel or inner structure of our teeth. Fortunately, at Viva Dental Family Dentistry we offer cosmetic solutions to stained smiles. In today’s blog, your Dallas dentist, Dr. Diep Truong, uses a fun quiz to discuss our teeth whitening techniques.

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filed under: Cosmetic Dentistry, Dallas Dentist, teeth whitening

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Richardson, TX Dentist Discusses Surgical Treatments for Gum Disease

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treatment Do you know the more advanced stages of gum disease don’t respond to alternative, non-surgical methods of treatment? For those who require a more involved process to eliminate this oral ailment, Dr. Diep Truong, your Richardson, TX dentist, explains surgical methods to cure gum disease.

Surgeries that Alleviate Gum Disease

  • Flap surgery. When gum disease has advanced to the later stages, root scaling and planing isn’t as effective. The flap surgery allows the dentist to lift the gum tissue to access deeper portions of the gum tissue.
    Additionally, since periodontal disease tends to affect the bone, the doctor may recontour the bone a bit to repair any prevalent bone loss.
  • Soft tissue grafts. Frequently, gum disease cause the gum line to recede, giving your teeth a longer appearance. To correct this ailment, your Richardson, TX dentist removes a small piece of tissue from with your palate and places the tissue on the affected area. Not only does this prevent further gum recession, it also covers the space that’s lost some of gum tissue.
  • Bone grafting. Tissue and bone is what anchors your teeth in place. With both the bone and soft tissue reduced from gum disease, tooth loss ensues. A bone graft is necessary when a patient has endured enough bone loss to reach the tooth loss stage.
    By using either your own bone, a synthetic material, or even donated bone, the graft supplements the lost bone. After healing period, patients’ teeth have become strongly rooted back into place.
  • Tissue regeneration. Much like the bone graft, tissue regeneration is meant to supplement bone loss. However, there isn’t a need for actual bone-like material. Instead, the doctor uses a biocompatible fabric to separate the tooth from the bone. The bone then begins to regenerate without any unwanted tissue developing.
  • Enamel matrix derivative. As third alternative to tissue regrowth, the derivative application involves the use of a gel. The gel stimulates healthy bone and tissue growth when placed on the diseased tooth; plus, the solution contains the same elements seen in enamel, which makes the regrowth process more effective.

Viva Dental Can Expertly Eliminate the Presence of Gum Disease

When gum disease doesn’t respond to alternative treatments, surgery may prove the most effective method to eliminate the disease. If you would like more information about surgical remedies for gum disease, contact Dr. Truong—she can explain your options. To schedule an appointment with our Richardson, TX dental practice, call us at (214) 337-7800. Also, visit our website for services, reviews, to learn more about our dental team. We happily serve new and existing patients in North Oak Cliff, Kessler Park, Duncanville, Grand Prairie, Richardson, Carrolton, Garland, Addison, Farmers Branch, and nearby suburbs.

filed under: Gum Disease, Oral Health, Patient Education, Preventive Dentistry

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Gum Disease Can Affect Children, Says Richardson, TX Dentist

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kid smilingDid you know that children can develop gum disease just like adults can? In fact, kids become particularly susceptible to the disease throughout puberty when their hormones have started to overtake their growing bodies. Dr. Diep Truong, your Richardson, TX dentist explains the types of gum disease seen amongst children in this article.

Types of Gum Disease Seen in Children

  • Chronic gingivitis. Cases of gingivitis arise amongst children quite often. Just like in adults, the gingivitis creates bright red, swollen gum tissue. Additionally, bleeding can also occur.
    However, since gingivitis is the only the beginnings of gum disease, it’s preventative and treatable. Simply enforce a stricter teeth cleaning routine alongside making regular dental visits a habit. With the proper treatment, the gingivitis should clear up easily; yet, if left unattended, the     gum disease will only worsen.
  • Aggressive periodontitis. This type of gum disease is seen in kids, teens, and young adults alike. Oftentimes, aggressive periodontitis affects the first molar and incisors. Furthermore, the alveolar bone is significantly riddled with bone loss. Surprisingly, though, kids with aggressive periodontitis don’t have a lot of plaque or tartar build-up.
  • Generalized aggressive periodontitis. Frequently, this form of periodontitis is seen throughout puberty; it’s actually quite common for the sudden rush of hormones produced by puberty to affect oral health. Typically, heavily accumulations of plaque and tartar makes generalized aggressive periodontitis much worse. Without proper care, this advancement in gum disease can lead to tooth loos.

Prevention Tips for Parents

  1. Establish healthy oral habits at an early age. By the time your child is year old, a dentist should have already seen them for their first dental appointment. Additionally, after their first birthday, you can start brushing their teeth with baby-safe toothpaste. When their teeth become close enough together, you can start flossing their teeth, too.
  2. Use yourself as a role model for them. Let you child see that you follow the same teeth cleaning routine they do.
  3. Make dental appointments for the entire family at the same time. This way, your child can have you nearby, should they want you in the treatment room.
  4. Your Richardson, TX dentist recommends checking your child’s teeth for any signs of gum disease. If they have swollen, bleeding, or very red gums, take them dentist as soon as possible. Early detection and treatment is the key to preventing oral ailments.

Bring Your Entire Family to Viva Dental for Preventative Care

In order to protect your entire family against the effects of gum disease, take care to visit Dr. Truong. She can provide treatment to virtually anyone, regardless of age or ailment. To schedule an appointment with our Richardson, TX dental practice, call us at (214) 337-7800. Also, visit our website for services, reviews, to learn more about our dental team. We happily serve new and existing patients in North Oak Cliff, Kessler Park, Duncanville, Grand Prairie, Richardson, Carrolton, Garland, Addison, Farmers Branch, and nearby suburbs.

filed under: Children's Dentistry, Gum Disease, Oral Health, Patient Education

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Richardson Dentist Answers FAQs About Dental Cleanings

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cleaning

A cleaning is such a routine procedure that many people underestimate its importance. Without regular cleanings, your smile becomes susceptible to tooth decay and gum disease. In today’s blog, your Richardson dentist, Dr. Diep Truong, answers common questions about the importance of dental cleanings.

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Dallas, TX Dentist Busts Common Myths about Gum Disease

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mythsIn our previous post about gum disease, we discussed risk factors that make you more susceptible to developing this oral illness. Here, Dr. Diep Truong, your Dallas, TX dentist debunks a few common misconceptions about gum disease.

Learn the Real Truth about Gum Disease

Gum Disease Myth # 1 – Gum disease is a natural part of the aging process.

Gum disease can affect anyone regardless of age. One of the main culprits of gum disease is plaque, which builds up around and between teeth. In its hardened state, plaque becomes tartar (or calculus). An excess of tartar forces periodontal pockets into your gums. These pockets fill with more bacteria and food particles, and the cycle continues until gum disease has manifested.

Since many older adults have endured some type of gum recession, they’re more susceptible to the accumulation of bacteria and the onset of gum disease.

Gum Disease Myth # 2 – Gum disease goes away on its without treatment.

Actually, gum disease only worsens without treatment. In fact, periodontitis is the advanced stage of gum disease where patients endure tooth loss. Yet, before gum disease has a chance to reach that stage, gingivitis sets in. Should you notice bleeding while brushing and flossing, persistent bad breath, or swollen gums, take care to talk to your Dallas, TX dentist to start treatment.

Gum Disease Myth # 3 – Bleeding a little while brushing or flossing is normal.

Unwarranted bleeding from any area of your body is usually a sign of trouble. If bleeding during your normal teeth cleaning regimen is a common occurrence, don’t hesitate visiting the dentist. The sooner the issue is addressed, the more effective treatment will prove for your smile.

Gum Disease Myth # 4 – Gum disease only affects my mouth.

Many studies have shown that gum disease tends to affect the body as a whole. In fact, gum disease increases your risk of developing heart disease, Alzheimer’s, dementia, and stroke. Furthermore, women who suffer from gestational gum disease can have preterm births and low-weight babies.

Viva Dental Provides Patients with Periodontal Treatment

If you’ve seen some pink-in-the-sink or have any other telltale signs of gum disease, talk to Dr. Truong as soon as possible. She can evaluate your mouth and begin treatment right away. To schedule an appointment with our Dallas, TX dental practice, call us at (214) 337-7800. Also, visit our website for services, reviews, to learn more about our dental team. We happily serve new and existing patients in North Oak Cliff, Kessler Park, Duncanville, Grand Prairie, Richardson, Carrolton, Garland, Addison, Farmers Branch, and nearby suburbs.

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Dallas, TX Dentist Discusses Gum Disease and Men’s Health

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man exercising Gum disease is one of the few diseases that causes different reactions to men and women. For women, gum disease can arise during any major hormonal change. This includes: pregnancy, puberty, menopause, and even throughout a menstrual cycle. Since men don’t experience as many hormonal changes, periodontal disease triggers other vital systems. To warn patients about male-related illnesses associated with gum disease, Dr. Diep Truong, your Dallas, TX dentist, provides the following blog post.

Consequences of Untreated Gum Disease for Men

  • Decline in prostate health. Prostate cancer is one of the leading cause of death amongst men. Yet, men with periodontal disease have an increased risk of developing the illness. This is due to a naturally secreted enzyme in the prostate called the prostate-specific antigen (PSA). While this enzyme secretes in minimal amounts in a healthy man, men with gum disease and prostate cancer alike tend to secrete roughly double the normal amount.
  • Increased heart disease risk. Many studies have show the link between heart disease and periodontal disease. However, men already have an increased risk of developing heart disease—gum disease only makes that possibility even more likely.
  • Impotence. Periodontal disease is an inflammatory disease and prolonged inflammation causes damage to the blood vessels. Therefore, men with untreated cases of gum disease become more susceptible to impotence—as per a study conducted by the American Urological Association.
  • Increased cancer risk. As aforementioned, gum disease places men under a greater risk for prostate cancer and prostate-related health issues. Additionally, men with gum disease become 49% more likely to develop kidney cancer over women. These increased risk factors extend to pancreatic and blood cancers, too.

Visit Viva Dental for an Oral Examination and a Clean Bill of Oral Health

Gum disease affects men and women differently; however, overall, the disease is detrimental to your body. If you’re interested in learning more about oral illnesses and diseases, consult with Dr. Truong. To schedule an appointment with our Dallas, TX dental practice, call us at (214) 337-7800. Also, visit our website for services, reviews, to learn more about our dental team. We happily serve new and existing patients in North Oak Cliff, Kessler Park, Duncanville, Grand Prairie, Richardson, Carrolton, Garland, Addison, Farmers Branch, and nearby suburbs.

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Dallas Dentist Explains What to Do When Your Child Damages a Tooth

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injured tooth

With summer coming to a close and school around the corner, your children may soon start signing up for school-related sporting events. With any school sport, there is always the risk your child may damage, or even knock out, a tooth. When this occurs, there are immediate steps you can take to address discomfort before bringing your little one to see your Dallas dentist, Dr. Diep Truong. In today’s blog, Dr. Truong explains what to do in the event of a dental emergency. She will also be offering a back-to-school special on mouth guards.

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filed under: Children's Dentistry, Cosmetic Dentistry, Dallas Dentist, General Dentistry

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Risk Factors that Can Worsen Gum Disease, Says Richardson, TX Dentist

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gum dieaseSince gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss amongst Americans, knowing which factors may cause the disease is key. If you’re aware of the risk factors, then your vigilance can increase. To teach her patients about said risk factors, Dr. Diep Truong, your Richardson, TX dentist, provides the following information.

What Makes Your Smile More Susceptible to the Development of Gum Disease?

  • Age. As we age, our bodies become more susceptible to diseases and illnesses; plus, once an illness has had a chance to invade the body, it takes awhile to get rid of the ailment. This is exactly why older people—especially the ones 65 and over—develop gum disease.
  • Tobacco. Smoking, dipping, and the just the general use of tobacco doesn’t bode well for your teeth because these habits dry-out your mouth. A dryer mouth allows cavity-causing bacteria to attack the enamel. Plus, the use of tobacco products has been linked to cancer and heart disease.
  • Genetics. Unfortunately, genetics have a huge influence on how your teeth turn out. As far as gum disease is concerned, some people have a genetic predisposition to developing the disease. Should you fall into that category, take care to visit your Richardson, TX dentist more often.
  • Stress. When you’re stressed your body begins to breakdown and is often incapable of fighting off diseases. Aside from developing high blood pressure or even cancer, stress can allow gum disease to nestle on and between your teeth.

Talk to Your Viva Dental Dentist about the Effects of Gum Disease

Having gum disease isn’t simply an oral ailment, it can become detrimental to your body as a whole. If you’re interested in learning more about oral illnesses and diseases, consult with Dr. Truong. She can explain how oral diseases also tackle the body. To schedule an appointment with our Richardson, TX dental practice, call us at (214) 337-7800. Also, visit our website for services, reviews, to learn more about our dental team. We happily serve new and existing patients in North Oak Cliff, Kessler Park, Duncanville, Grand Prairie, Richardson, Carrolton, Garland, Addison, Farmers Branch, and nearby suburbs.

filed under: Dallas Dentist, General Dentistry, Gum Disease, Oral Health, Richardson dentist

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Richardson, TX Dentist Explains Dental Cleanings During Pregnancy

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pregnant womanHow often should pregnant women visit the dentist? Most women choose to not go altogether during pregnancy, which is a mistake. Pregnancy makes women more susceptible to certain illnesses, especially ones within the oral cavity. To help stave off said diseases, Dr. Diep Truong, your Richardson, TX dentist, explains the importance of dental cleanings throughout pregnancy.

Is it Safe to Have Dental Cleanings While Pregnant?

Pregnant women have to take extra precautions throughout their term in order to protect the lives of their unborn babies. While women tend to keep as close-knit relationship with their obstetrician and general physician during pregnancy, many women forget to increase their visits to the dentist.

When you’re pregnant, your body uses twice as much of everything. Food, water, vitamins, and even minerals suddenly have to increase for the sake and health of the baby. One the vitamins that decreases tremendously during pregnancy is calcium. This vitamin fortifies your teeth and gums and a lack of calcium makes women more susceptible to developing cavities and oral diseases such as gum disease. In fact, gestational gum disease is a common ailment in pregnant women, alongside gestational diabetes. Therefore, once you know you’re pregnant, take care to tell your Richardson, TX dentist. Dr. Truong. She can schedule more dental cleanings to monitor the health of your mouth, should the development of gum disease arise.

Treating Gestational Gum Disease

Most traditional treatments for gum disease prove quite effective for pregnant women. Depending on how soon the gum disease is discovered, you may only require a scaling and planing to remove the bacteria from within the gum line.

The doctor can also use a laser treatment, which is more comfortable and requires a minimal healing period. Furthermore, a dental laser requires minimal anesthesia, which is safer for both the mother and the baby.

To Maintain Optimal Oral Health Throughout Pregnancy Visit Viva Dental

Ensuring your mouth stays healthy during pregnancy is crucial for both you and your baby. Therefore, having dental cleanings while pregnant should occur more frequently than before to stave off oral diseases. To schedule an appointment with our Richardson, TX dental practice, call us at (214) 337-7800. Also, visit our website for services, reviews, to learn more about our dental team. We happily serve new and existing patients in North Oak Cliff, Kessler Park, Duncanville, Grand Prairie, Richardson, Carrolton, Garland, Addison, Farmers Branch, and nearby suburbs.

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