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Ronald Watkins, DDS, MS has created this informative blog to help educate the community.

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Latest Posts:

Recovering from a Gum Graft

Posted on 3/15/2025 by Implant and Periodontal Wellness Center of Arizona

Gum grafts are an essential part of restorative dentistry, helping to protect and strengthen the roots of your teeth. By adding thickness and volume to your gums, they also enhance the overall appearance of your smile. While the procedure itself is quite safe and effective, it's natural to feel some discomfort during the initial healing phase. Understanding what to expect and how to properly care for your gums during recovery can help you heal quickly and minimize any potential complications. The First Few Days Immediately after the surgery, you can expect some swelling and tenderness in the gum area. Some minor bleeding is also normal. Your dentist will likely provide you with instructions and pain medication to manage discomfort. During the first few days, it's essential to: - Maintain a soft diet: Focus on soft foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, and soups that are easy to chew and won't irritate the surgical site. - Use ice packs: Apply ice packs to the affected area for 15-20 minutes at a time to reduce swelling. - Avoid brushing the surgical site: Use a saltwater rinse instead to help keep the area clean. - Do not smoke: Smoking delays healing and increases the risk of complications. Healing and Recovery After the initial swelling subsides, the healing process typically takes 7-14 days. During this time, the grafted tissue will gradually integrate with your natural gum tissue. You may still experience some soreness, but this will progressively decrease. It's essential to continue practicing good oral care during recovery: - Brush twice a day: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle brushing technique, carefully avoiding the surgical site until your dentist says it's okay. - Floss daily: Use unwaxed floss to gently clean between your teeth, being mindful to avoid the healing gums. - Maintain a healthy diet: Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to promote overall health and healing. - Follow-up appointments: Attend all follow-up appointments with your dentist to monitor your progress and ensure proper healing. Additional Tips for a Smooth Recovery Following these additional tips can further help ensure a smooth and comfortable recovery from your gum graft: - Limit strenuous activity: Avoid strenuous exercise or heavy lifting for the first few days after surgery. - Avoid alcohol: Alcohol can delay healing and increase bleeding. - Rest and relax: Give your body time to heal by getting adequate rest and sleep. - Drink plenty of fluids: Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water or non-caffeinated drinks. - Do not use straws: Sucking can dislodge the grafted tissue, so avoid using straws for the first week after surgery. - Ask for help: Don't hesitate to contact your dentist if you have any questions or concerns about your recovery. By following these recommendations and practicing good oral hygiene, you will recover from your...
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What to Do When You Notice Your Gums Bleeding

Posted on 3/3/2025 by Implant and Periodontal Wellness Center of Arizona

Have you ever noticed your gums bleeding after brushing or flossing? While occasional bleeding may not seem like a big deal, it's actually an important sign that your oral health might be at risk. Bleeding gums are one of the first signs of gum disease, a common and treatable infection of the gum tissues. Understanding Gum Disease Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is caused by plaque, a sticky film that builds up on your teeth and contains bacteria. If plaque isn't removed regularly through brushing and flossing, it can harden into tartar, which irritates the gums, causing them to swell and become inflamed. This inflammation can lead to the gums pulling away from the teeth, creating pockets where bacteria can thrive. If left untreated, gum disease can progress and damage the bone and tissues that support your teeth, eventually leading to tooth loss. What to Do if Your Gums Bleed? If you notice your gums bleeding, don't ignore it. It's important to see a dentist or periodontist as soon as possible to get a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. During your appointment, your dentist will likely examine your mouth, take X-rays, and measure the depth of the pockets between your teeth and gums. Based on their findings, they may recommend one or more of the following treatments: Preventing Gum Disease The best way to avoid gum disease is to practice good oral hygiene. This includes brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and rinsing with an antiseptic mouthwash. You should also schedule regular dental checkups and cleanings to help catch any signs of gum disease early on. Consider Restoration Dentistry for Missing Teeth due to Gum Disease If you have already lost teeth due to gum disease, there are several restoration dentistry options available to restore your smile and oral function. Dental implants are a popular choice, as they look and function like natural teeth. Other options include bridges and partial dentures. The Bottom Line: Don't Ignore Bleeding Gums Bleeding gums are a warning sign that your oral health needs attention. By seeking prompt treatment and practicing good oral hygiene, you can prevent gum disease from progressing and keep your mouth healthy for years to come....
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Dentures and Tmj - What You Need to Know

Posted on 2/15/2025 by Implant and Periodontal Wellness Center of Arizona

Getting dentures is a big decision, and it's important to be informed about all aspects of denture care. One important aspect is understanding the relationship between dentures and TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorders. What are Dentures? Dentures are removable replacements for missing teeth and surrounding tissues. They can be full or partial, depending on how many teeth you're missing. Full dentures replace all of your teeth in an arch, while partial dentures replace only some of your teeth. What is TMJ? The TMJ is the hinge joint that connects your jawbone to your skull. It allows you to open and close your mouth, as well as move your jaw side to side and forward and backward. TMJ disorders are a group of conditions that affect this joint, causing pain, clicking, popping, and difficulty moving the jaw. How are Dentures and TMJ Related? Dentures can sometimes contribute to TMJ disorders. This is because dentures can change the way your teeth bite together, which can put stress on the TMJ. Additionally, dentures can make it difficult to chew properly, which can lead to muscle strain and pain. What Can You Do? If you are considering getting dentures, it is important to talk to your dentist about your risk of developing TMJ problems. Your dentist will be able to assess your individual situation and make recommendations to help you avoid any potential problems. Here are some things you can do to help prevent TMJ problems if you wear dentures: Conclusion Dentures can be a great way to restore your smile and function if you are missing teeth. However, it is important to be aware of the potential relationship between dentures and TMJ disorders. By working with your dentist and following the tips above, you can help minimize your risk of developing TMJ problems and enjoy the benefits of your new dentures....
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All Posts:

Recovering from a Gum Graft
3/15/2025
What to Do When You Notice Your Gums Bleeding
3/3/2025
Dentures and Tmj - What You Need to Know
2/15/2025
Are Athletes at a Heightened Risk for Developing Gum Disease?
2/3/2025
Top Foods That Damage Your Teeth
1/15/2025
What Alcohol Does to Your Gums
1/1/2025
What Untreated Gum Disease Can Do To Your Lungs
12/16/2024
Alcohol Might Be Responsible for Your Receding Gums
12/2/2024
The General Progression of Gum Disease
11/15/2024
Does Where You Live Affect Your Quality of Oral Health?
11/1/2024
Gum Disease Can Make You More Forgetful
10/15/2024
Does Drinking Alcohol Increase Gum Disease Problems?
10/1/2024
The Role of Saliva in Oral Health
9/16/2024
The Role of Green Tea in Gum Health
9/2/2024
Signs You May Need Pocket Reduction Surgery
8/15/2024
Protect Your Tooth Roots with Gum Grafting
8/1/2024
What Is Dental Smart Bone Grafting and Why Do You Need It?
7/15/2024
What if My Child Has Already Started Experiencing Dental Resorption?
7/1/2024
Difference Between Gingivitis and Periodontitis
6/15/2024
Debunking Myths About Gum Disease
6/3/2024
How Gum Health Impacts Your Cardiovascular Health
5/15/2024
How Does Periodontitis Cause Tooth Loss
5/1/2024
The Four Stages of Periodontal Disease
4/15/2024
Risk Factors of Gum Disease
4/1/2024
The Impact of Periodontitis on Oral Health and Overall Quality of Life
3/15/2024
Smoking and Its Effects on Periodontal Health
3/1/2024
Teeth gaps and Sensitivity
2/15/2024
Risk Factors for Gum Diseases
2/2/2024
Periodontal Diseases And Pregnancy
1/15/2024
Is Pocket Reduction Surgery Worth It?
1/2/2024
What Is A Bone Graft? Why Do I Need One?
12/15/2023
My Gums Hurt When I Brush My Teeth, What Does This Mean
12/1/2023
The Significance Of Nitrous Oxide In Dentistry
11/15/2023
An Overview Of Cleft Lip And Cleft Palate Repair Surgery
11/1/2023
What Is A Porcelain Crown?
10/31/2023
How to Cut the Risk of Dental Implant Failure before Getting Implants
10/15/2023
What to Expect from the First Visit to the Periodontist
9/25/2023
Oil pulling and its essence in dental care
9/11/2023
The Role of Nutrition in maintaining healthy gums
8/21/2023
Treatment Options for Loose Teeth Due to Gum Disease
8/7/2023
What Are My Options For Replacing Teeth?
7/24/2023
The Connection between Gum Disease and Kidney Disease
7/10/2023
Pros and Cons of Mini Implants
6/19/2023
The Vital Role of Dental Hygienists in Dental Care
6/5/2023
What Is Periodontal Maintenance And When Do You Need It?
5/22/2023
Do Cold Sores Affect Your Oral Health?
5/8/2023
What To Do When You Have Gum Inflammation?
4/24/2023
Periodontist and Dentist
4/10/2023
How Can I Save My Teeth?
3/20/2023
Is a Bone Graft Essential Before Receiving Dental Implants
2/20/2023
The Difference Between Gingivitis and Periodontitis
2/6/2023
Aftercare Tips For Periodontal Disease Treatment
1/23/2023
Do Extractions Eliminate Gum Disease?
1/9/2023
What Stages of Gum Disease Can be Cured?
12/19/2022
Taking Care of Your Implants
12/5/2022
What Happens If Periodontal Disease Isnt Treated?
11/21/2022
Why Is Dry Mouth A Problem For My Teeth And Gums?
11/7/2022
Risks Involved with Periodontist Treatments
10/24/2022
Why is sedation dentistry needed?
10/10/2022
Treatment Options for Periodontitis
9/19/2022
Gingivitis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
9/5/2022
Periodontal diseases.
8/22/2022
What Causes Gum Disease
8/8/2022
Here are ways to maintain healthy gums
7/18/2022
Always ask these 3 questions when going to a new dentist
7/4/2022
Can Gum Disease Affect Infants
6/20/2022
When Do You Need Gum Rejuvenation
6/6/2022
Is Flossing Too Difficult? Try a Water Flosser
5/23/2022
Frequently asked questions about periodontology
5/9/2022
What is Sedation Dentistry?
4/25/2022
Tips for a Cleaner and Healthier Gums and Teeth
4/11/2022
Oral or IV Sedation: Which One is Right for You?
3/21/2022
Here are things every person with dentures needs to know
3/7/2022
Dental Implants Placement And Age Limits
2/21/2022
Brush or Floss First: Here is What You Need to Know
2/7/2022
Tooth Replacement Options Using Dental Implants
1/24/2022
The Hidden Link Between Dum Disease and Alzheimers
1/10/2022
Can Hormonal Imbalance Cause Oral Health Problems?
12/23/2021
What is Peri-Implant Disease?
12/10/2021
Four Frequently Asked Questions About Cosmetic Gum Surgery
11/22/2021
The Most Common Early Signs of Gum Disease
11/8/2021
What Is the Difference Between Dentures and Dental Implants?
10/25/2021
5 Benefits of Consulting a Prosthodontist
10/11/2021
It Is Possible to Ease the Symptoms of Diabetes with Gum Disease Treatment
9/21/2021
Types of Services We Can Offer
9/6/2021
How Does the Root of Your Tooth Become Exposed?
8/23/2021
When May You Need a Perioscopy?
8/9/2021
How Aggressive Flossing Could Lead To Gum Damage
7/26/2021
Foods That You Can Eat as Snacks To Help Clean Your Teeth
7/12/2021
How Gums Change as You Get Older
6/21/2021
Understanding Denture Stomatitis and What It Means
6/7/2021
Signs the Pain You Feel Could Be a Dental Abscess
5/24/2021
Alcohol Leaves a Lasting Impact on Your Gums When Consumed Regularly
5/10/2021
Preparing for Your First Visit to a Periodontist
4/26/2021
How To Reverse Periodontitis
4/12/2021
4 Things You Can Do to Avoid Damage From Gum Recession
3/22/2021
Why Smile Makeover Is Needed for Senior Citizens?
3/8/2021
What is Periodontal Disease?
2/22/2021
How Do You Develop Plaque?
2/8/2021
What is Trench Mouth and How Is It Treated?
1/25/2021
Brushing Too Aggressive Can Cause Damage to Your Gums
1/11/2021
How Can We Tell When Gums Require Grafts?
12/21/2020
Lasers Make Treating Gum Trouble Easier
12/7/2020
Are Gum Pockets a Problem?
11/16/2020
Why Do So Many Athletes Have Gum Disease?
11/9/2020
Is Your Oral Health Connected to the Health of Your Prostate?
10/19/2020
Dry Mouth Can Increase Gum Disease Problems
10/5/2020
How Same-Day Dentures Work
9/21/2020
What Options Do You Have with Periodontal Plastic Surgery?
9/7/2020
Can Your Regular Dentist Treat Your Gum Disease?
8/24/2020
Ways of Treating Gums that Do Not Stay Tight Against Your Teeth
8/10/2020
Can You Eat Right After a Gum Graft?
7/23/2020
People of All Ages Need to Be Aware of Their Gum Health
7/7/2020
What to Do to Improve the Health of Your Gums
6/22/2020
What is the Diagnosis Process for Gum Disease?
6/8/2020

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