Protect Your Smile from Gum Disease with Help from Dr. Bobby Carmen

November 18, 2013

Filed under: General Dentistry — Tags: , , , , , , , , , , — admin @ 11:13 pm

Many dental patients are surprised to learn that the most common oral health ailment isn’t something simple like cavities or teeth grinding – it’s gum disease. In fact, a staggering 80% of the population is projected to suffer from a stage of this ailment. Also commonly referred to as a periodontal disease, gum disease is relatively harmless in its earliest stages, but if left untreated, it can lead to devastating consequences, including bone deterioration and tooth loss. That’s why it’s so important to attend regular check-ups here in Norman with Dr. Carmen! Our dedicated staff can thoroughly inspect your gums and provide customized therapy promptly if needed. If you’re between check-ups, here are some common symptoms that you can keep an eye out for in the comfort of your own home:

  • Gums that bleed during brushing and/or flossing
  • Persistent bad breath that isn’t alleviated by oral hygiene or mouthwash
  • Any tenderness, swelling, or discoloration concerning your oral tissues
  • Pain when chewing
  • Teeth that appear longer (it means your gums are receding)
  • A bite that feels different suddenly, or teeth that seem looser

In addition, here are some factors that indicate a higher risk of gum disease than normal:

  • If you smoke and/or use tobacco
  • If you have diabetes
  • If you take steroids
  • If you’ve undergone therapy for cancer

We have several methods available for treating gum disease, including scaling, root planing, antibiotic therapy, and laser treatment. If your case is advanced, we may recommend you to a trusted colleague who can provide periodontal surgery. We’ll be sure to select the treatment that best fits your unique needs and concerns!

Contact our Norman office today to schedule an appointment! Dr. Carmen and his staff are happy to welcome new patients from Moore, the University of Oklahoma, and all over the state.

Protect Your Pearly Whites from Gum Disease in Norman, OK

March 5, 2013

Filed under: General Dentistry — Tags: , , , , , , , , , — admin @ 6:18 pm

When asked to name common oral health problems, most of us would probably choose culprits like cavities or unsightly enamel stains – but did you know that nearly 80% of the population is suffering from a stage of gum disease today? Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, often begins mildly; sometimes, symptoms are even invisible. However, if left untreated, the condition can lead to a myriad of destructive problems, including tooth loss. Dr. Bobby Carmen and his staff believe strongly in catching and treating gum disease quickly and efficiently, saving you time, money, and frustration; that’s why we offer a variety of thorough, non-surgical treatments at our Norman office that can leave your smile healthier and happier.

How can you tell if you might be suffering from gum disease? Here are some common symptoms:

  • Tenderness and swelling in the gums
  • Gums that bleed during and/or after you brush and floss
  • Sudden pain that occurs when chewing
  • A shift in your bite, or teeth that feel loose or changed
  • Bad breath that persists even after brushing and mouthwash

Of course, it’s important to remember that in many cases of gum disease, none of these symptoms are noticeable or even present. That’s why it’s important to attend regular check-ups with Dr. Carmen at his Norman office so that our staff can closely monitor your mouth for signs of gum disease.

I have gum disease! What can you do for me?

Our practice offers several options for gum disease treatment so that we can ensure you get the care that bests fit your individual needs. These include scaling, root planing, antibiotics, and laser treatment. Dr. Carmen will be happy to discuss with you how each of these methods work. In severe cases of gum disease, we may need to recommend you to a trusted colleague who can provide your gums with the thorough care they need.

Don’t let gum disease steal your smile – treat it quickly and effectively with help from Dr. Carmen and his excellent staff! Our Norman practice is committed to providing you with comfortable dental care that is sure to put a smile on your face. Contact us today to schedule an appointment. We also serve the areas of Moore, the University of Oklahoma, and Central Oklahoma.