January 2013 - Allyson K Hurley, DDS

Keeping Our Patients Safe

Dear Friends:
I am excited to announce that we are accepting new patients again. To insure that our patients and staff stay safe myself and the full staff have received the Covid-19 vaccination . We would like to ease your concerns about coming to the office.

Click here for our new office safety protocol

Is it common for dentists to recommend a night guard after a patient gets new porcelain veneers? My dentist recommended it for me. I am wondering if this is just a money-making thing or if I really need it. Thanks – Tish

Tish – It is common to recommend a night guard. It will protect teeth from damage due to grinding or clenching during sleep. Many people, at least on occasion, grind or clench their teeth while they sleep, and they are completely unaware of it. When examining your teeth, your dentist may have noticed signs that indicate you may clench or grind your teeth.

Grinding or clenching teeth can damage porcelain veneers. The night guard will protect your investment and help keep your teeth in their correct position.

This post is sponsored by New Jersey cosmetic dentist Dr. Allyson Hurley.

hello. my gums are taking over my teeth. i know i havent done the best job brushing & flossing but why does it look like my gums are growing??? my mom made a couple of dentists appts 4 me but i blew them off really bcuz i’m afraid. but if this is really a big problem maybe i need 2 go to the dentist. what do u think? thanks – mk

MK – It is possible that you have gingivitis, or inflammation of the gum tissue. You didn’t state your age, but hormonal changes, along with poor oral hygiene can cause overgrowth of gum tissue.

You should have a dentist examine your teeth and gums. And you should start practicing good oral hygiene by brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing daily.

Hereditary factors, certain medications, and medical conditions can contribute to the overgrowth of gum tissue, but your dentist will review your medical history with you to identify the contributing factors.

Depending on the cause of the overgrowth, an antibiotic may be prescribed, or surgery may be recommended to remove the excess gum tissue. In every case, good oral hygiene should be practiced at home, and you should regularly have your teeth examined and cleaned at your dentist’s office.

This post is sponsored by New Jersey cosmetic dentist Dr. Allyson Hurley.

Archives for January 2013