Dental Concern Q&A

Do you have a sudden dental problem but don’t know the cause? Are you looking for answers to questions about your current dental concerns? We can help! Our team treats patients with various dental concerns, from bleeding gums to missing teeth. Learn more about how to address your dental concerns in our Destrehan, LA dental office. We welcome questions from our patients about their treatment options so we can clarify any confusion, misconceptions, or simply go into more detail about the treatment process.

Treating patients dental concerns in Destrehan, LA

Dental Concerns in Destrehan, LA

Read answers to commonly asked questions about these oral health concerns:

Why should I replace my missing teeth?

You can experience oral health problems even if you have a missing tooth. Typically, remaining teeth will shift over time to fill the space left by a lost tooth and overcrowd the mouth. Harmful bacteria can also build up in the tooth socket. Replacing a missing tooth with a dental implant or bridge creates a more comfortable bite, prevents an increased chance of decay, and improves the smile’s appearance.

Do I have gingivitis if I have bleeding gums?

Although many patients who experience bleeding gums may have gum inflammation, bleeding gums can also indicate other problems. Patients who take certain medications, have a dental injury, or brush their teeth aggressively can experience bleeding gums. Visit the dentist on a regular basis so our team can keep track of symptoms like bleeding gums. We can provide deep cleaning treatments as needed to prevent the spread of bacteria.

What are common signs of sleep apnea?

Many patients with sleep apnea can experience:

  • Snoring
  • Daytime sleepiness
  • Insomnia
  • Dry mouth
  •  Morning headaches

Over time, severe sleep apnea can contribute to health problems, particularly strokes, heart disease, and heart attacks. Contact a specialist if you have severe symptoms.

Are there alternatives to CPAP machines?

If patients have milder symptoms of sleep apnea, we may recommend an oral appliance. This custom-made nightguard covers the teeth and helps open the airway. Because of how the nightguard situates the bite, it shifts the jaw so the tissues in the back of the mouth do not cover the airway. Nightguards can also stop patients from snoring or interrupting their sleep with periods of apnea.

Why are dental implants great for missing teeth?

Patients can replace a single missing tooth or full arches of lost teeth with implants and implant-secured restorations. Dental implants are titanium metal posts that an oral surgeon inserts into the jaw bone. Once the implants heal, they provide stable support for a dental crown, dental bridge, or denture. Implants help patients eat and speak normally and enhance the appearance of their smile. Dental implants also last much longer than removable dental restorations.

Do you have remaining questions for our office? Contact Dr. Melanie Andrews and her team at (985) 231-2770. You can also request a dental appointment at Plantation Road Dental Care today.