Tuesday, March 25, 2014

Scaling and Root Planning

If your teeth are sensitive or your gums bleed when you floss or brush, you might be suffering from gum disease. Patients who come in for regular cleanings are much less likely to suffer from periodontal disease.  If you’re not taking care of your oral hygiene, the bacteria and plaque can advance to gum disease and it becomes more difficult to treat. While gum disease sounds like a scary thing, the good news is that there are treatment options available.
 
Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in the United States. There are many different forms of periodontal disease but all of them can cause serious damage to the mouth. The mildest form of periodontal disease is gingivitis. Gingivitis causes the gums to become red, swollen and bleed easily. The biggest cause of gingivitis is lack of a regular oral hygiene regimen. Preventative measures, such as regular brushing and flossing, go a long way when it comes to preventing periodontal disease. Gingivitis is reversible with professional treatment and good oral health practices at home.
 
We offer a non-surgical, non-invasive option known as scaling and root planning for those who have gum disease. This deep cleaning procedure is a great alternative to surgical options. Scaling involves removing built-up plaque below the gum line using either manual scraping instruments or an ultrasonic tool. When we do your root planing, we essentially gently sand your teeth, removing rough spots on the tooth surfaces and roots, which tend to harbor bacteria.
 
If you fear that you might be suffering from gingivitis or gum disease, set up an appointment at our Baytown, TX practice at 281-421-5950 so we can go over treatment options. 

Wednesday, March 19, 2014

Digital Panorex

We work hard to provide our patients with the most technologically advanced treatment options available. One of the best things we now utilize is the Digital Panorex system that takes incredible 360 degree images of your teeth, head, sinuses and bones. Our Baytown, TX area patients are enjoying the benefits from having their periodontal issues caught earlier rather than later. By catching small issues before they become big problems, we are able to provide the best care possible.
If you come into our office, you’ll immediately understand why we consider ourselves to be one of the most technologically advanced practices in the area.
 
We utilize the following technologies in our office:
  • Laser Cavity Detection
  • Oral cancer screening technology
  • Intraoral camera for better patient diagnosis
  • Rotary endotronics for root canal procedures
  • Digital X-ray technology for better patient safety
The most recent technology we’ve added is the digital panorex machine. We are now able to view the full structure of your head. This is great because we are now able to see any potential problems more clearly. We will also be able to see whether or not your mouth and jaw is functioning correctly. The panorex is capable of viewing specific structural problems, infections and asymmetry any asymmetry in the area.  
 
If you’re looking for a thorough exam and cleaning in the Baytown, TX area, you can make an appointment with Dr. Ivi Z. Sanguinetti. Her dental expertise and commitment to proper patient care has given her a great reputation amongst her peers, and the community. 

Tuesday, March 11, 2014

Oral Cancer Screening

Did you know that oral cancer often goes completely undetected until it spreads to another part of the body? You can stay ahead of the game by having regular oral cancer screenings with us in Baytown, TX. If you use tobacco and drink alcohol regularly, you are at a greatly increased risk for oral cancer. Oral cancer is also being connected to human papillomavirus, also known as HPV. Oral cancer can appear anywhere in the oral cavity. It is mostly found:
  • On the lips
  • On or under the tongue
  • On the roof of the mouth
  • Back of the throat
  • Inside the cheek
The ability to detect oral cancer early is a great tool for us and for you. We are able to identify and pinpoint the start of a potential problem much earlier in its evolution thanks to advances in modern technology. If you’re having regular cleanings at least twice a year, you are much more likely to have possible problems detected early because we document each appointment and know your history.
 
You should be getting an oral cancer screening at least once a year. Come in and visit us today so we can make sure your oral hygiene is in tip-top shape. We’re here to help, so call today! Call at 281-421-5950 to make an appointment.

Wednesday, March 5, 2014

Laser Cavity Detection

Laser cavity detection is one of the most technologically advanced tools available to dentists today. We have adopted this technology and our Baytown, TX area patients absolutely love the results they’re seeing and so are we!
 
Without laser detection, it is becoming harder and harder to detect tooth decay. Did you know that tooth decay is actually microscopic tears in your tooth enamel? Once the decay has penetrated the enamel, it quickly spreads itself into the softer surface underneath. Traditional X-ray devices are unable to detect this decay. We use our Non invasive laser cavity detection by beaming laser light onto the chewing area of your teeth. While scanning your teeth, the readout portion of the machine checks the density of your tooth structure. It then calculates the possibility of tooth decay. When increased light wavelengths register, our team will be notified that there might be some decay in this area.
 
By detecting your tooth decay earlier, we are able to prevent cavities from forming. When we find a weak area, we will apply fluoride that will remove the tooth decay during its early stages, stopping the cavity from ever forming. If a cavity is detected before it penetrates the dentin, we can apply a dental sealant to the area in order to prevent the cavity from fully forming. Early detection is the best way for you to avoid potentially invasive, costly dental procedures that wouldn’t have been necessary if the symptoms were found earlier. Visit Dr. Ivi Sanguinetti in our Baytown, TX practice for a consultation today!