Crown Lengthening

Do you feel like you have a “gummy” smile? In other words, are your teeth covered by excess gum tissue? We at Martin Urban, DDS are committed to helping our patients feel confident and happy with their smiles. We are excited to offer crown lengthening to bring out the fullness of your teeth!

The crown lengthening procedure involves reshaping your gum line as well as the bone around the affected tooth or teeth, creating a more balanced gum to tooth ratio. The great thing about crown lengthening is that it can be performed on as many or as little affected teeth there are in the patient’s mouth. One tooth with excess gum tissue can be reshaped or a whole gum line can be reshaped, depending on the patient.

In addition to your smile becoming more aesthetically pleasing, crown lengthening also improves the overall health of your gums. The edge of the restoration is sturdy enough to withstand brushing and flossing to prevent tooth decay and gum disease. 

Not sure if this procedure is right for you? We are happy to address any concerns or answer any questions that you have! Martin Urban, DDS is located at 976 Main St. in Waltham, MA 02453. For more information about our crown lengthening procedure or to schedule an appointment, you can visit martinurbandds.com or call 508-425-9640.

 

Diabetes Awareness Month

November marks National Diabetes Awareness Month. As a dental practice that specializes in implants and periodontal disease, diabetes education is especially important to us at the Massachusetts practices of Dr. Martin Urban. Diabetes is closely linked to gum inflammation, and people who have it need to understand that they are at greater risk in order to protect themselves.

People with high blood sugar are especially prone to developing inflammation. This means that their gum tissue will have a more extreme response to the acid normally produced by oral bacteria as they metabolize sugar. In people with uncontrolled blood sugar, it is also more common for gingivitis to develop into periodontal disease, which means that their gums recede and they will eventually lose jaw bone tissue. While this would be a serious problem for anybody, research also indicates that diabetes and periodontal disease exist in a vicious circle, with the toxins resulting from periodontal disease making it harder for the body to regulate blood sugar.

Regular brushing and flossing are essential for controlling the population of oral bacteria. People with diabetes should especially be on the look-out for gingivitis symptoms such as swelling and bleeding gums. Regular dental cleanings, which break up plaque and remove infected material from below the gum line, will help people with difficulty controlling their blood sugar to avoid the more advanced stage of gum disease. We can also provide prosthetic teeth to people who have already suffered from periodontitis.

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Martin Urban, call 508-425-9640 or visit us at Martin Urban DDS.

 

Gum Abscesses

Replacing teeth is our specialty at the Massachusetts offices of Dr. Martin Urban. Although a tooth may be lost to an acute injury, many fall out or have to be removed due to progressive gum disease. We don’t want this to happen to our patients, especially if they’ve already lost some teeth and are at increased risk for recurring periodontal infections, so we wanted to discuss the dangers and treatments for a gum abscess.

An abscess is where pus from a bacterial infection gathers. Gingival abscess are those that form at the gum line, while periodontal abscesses are more advanced and form deep within the gum pocket. As they build up, more of the gum wall will pull away from the tooth root, leaving a tooth less stable. Abscesses cause pain, sensitivity, swelling, and bad breath, and they are often accompanied by a fever and difficulty opening the mouth. They are emergencies and patients should not attempt to self-medicate them.

During an examination, we will determine the extent of an infection and whether a root canal is necessary. If only the gum material is infected, we will make an incision to drain the pus and cut away infected material. If the tooth is natural we will smooth its root in a process called planing to make it harder for bacteria to recolonize. The patient will be given painkillers and a recommended regimen of antibiotics. If an abscess is caught in time, the patient may be spared loss of jaw bone tissue and be able to keep the tooth.

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Martin Urban, call 508-425-9640 or visit us at Martin Urban DDS.

 

Tips for a Tooth-Friendly Halloween

Sweet, sticky candy is everywhere this time of year, and people are naturally having a harder time maintaining their oral health. While the rest of the holiday season isn’t as candy-oriented as Halloween, it does abound with sweets and present similar challenges. We’re particularly concerned with fighting gum disease here at the Massachusetts dental offices of Dr. Martin Urban, and we have many patients who want to preserve their prosthetic teeth. Therefore, we thought we’d provide a guide to a tooth-friendly Halloween.

Implants are strong structures. They integrate with a patient’s jaw bone structure and artificial crowns are cemented onto them. But patients with dentures and partial crowns should still exercise reasonable caution about eating sticky candy. Better options include chewy sweets, such as those made with peanut butter or chocolate. These foods still have high sugar content, but even foods with low amounts of sugar or complex sugars will fuel decay if they are allowed to linger in the mouth for too long. Patients should quickly dislodge food debris by brushing and flossing shortly after meals. They should also limit their time eating candy to meals, when they will be producing a large amount of saliva. Sugary drinks such as apple cider are also an oral health hazard, so patients should be drinking plenty of water to wash away sugary residue.

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Martin Urban, call 508-425-9640 or visit us at Martin Urban DDS.

 

Causes of Filling Failure

As specialists in dental restorations, we at the offices of Dr. Martin Urban want our patients’ new teeth to last. When properly cared for, implants, artificial crowns, and fillings can last for over ten years. But there are some newly discovered factors that put people at elevated risk for premature filling failure, which is why we want patients to know if they need to be especially attentive to their oral hygiene.

According to a new recent study, smokers and people who frequently drink alcohol are likelier to experience a filling failure after just two years. This adds to the high number of oral health problems smokers face, which include gum recession, tooth discoloration, and higher rates of oral cancer. The study also found a possible genetic influence on filling loss, suggesting that people with a family history of poor dental health are at risk even if they don’t adapt a lifestyle that is riskier for their oral health. However, filling and implant failure are still rare events when the patient engages in regular oral hygiene.

Another finding was that composite resin fillings do not have higher failure rates than amalgam fillings. This means that mercury-free, naturally colored prosthetics are viable alternatives, and that patients suffer no drawbacks from having amalgam fillings replaced with prosthetics that are healthier and more aesthetically pleasing.

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Martin Urban, call 508-425-9640 or visit us at Martin Urban DDS.

 

Asthma and Oral Health

If you suffer from asthma, you may be at heightened risk for developing gum disease. We at the dental offices of Dr. Martin Urban have helped a lot of people to manage dry mouth and resulting symptoms such as tooth decay, gum recession, and bad breath. To assist asthma patients with their preventive care, we wanted to explain why it is so important for them to take steps to prevent dry mouth-related damage.

People who have difficulty breathing through their noses often resort to breathing through their mouths, particularly when asleep. This is a problem for oral health because saliva does more than wash away sugary food debris. It also neutralizes acid that is produced by bacteria, regurgitated from the stomach, or in drinks such as soda and citrus juices. Furthermore, saliva contains enzymes that kill disease-causing bacteria and fungus.

Mouth-breathing is not the only reason people with asthma may experience higher levels of dry mouth. A reduction in saliva flow is also a common medication side effect. Patients should not stop using medication without a doctor’s recommendation, but they should ask about alternatives. They may stimulate saliva production by chewing sugar-free gum or using a prescription-strength throat moisturizer. Patients should also be aware that inhaler medication may contain sugars that will fuel bacteria growth, so they should brush their teeth after using it.

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Martin Urban, call 508-425-9640 or visit us at Martin Urban DDS.

 

Causes of Bad Breath

Bad breath, or halitosis, isn’t just embarrassing. If it chronically recurs, it could be a sign of poor health. We’re very concerned with any sign of oral health problems at the dental office of Dr. Martin Urban, and we want our patients to understand why halitosis is something they should take seriously.

Poor hygiene is the most common reasons for halitosis. Bacteria can hide between the teeth, behind the back molars, and in the papillae of the tongue. Proper hygiene requires thorough flossing, brushing for two minutes twice a day, and use of a tongue scraper. People are particularly vulnerable to bacteria build-up on their tongue when nasal discharge is dripping onto it. If they have dry mouth, they are deprived of the antimicrobial enzymes saliva contains and will have a harder time ridding their mouths of food debris.

Dry mouth is a common side effect of medications, including ones for mood disorders and ADHD and those which are given as part of cancer treatment. While patients should not change their medications on their own, they should ask their doctor about alternatives if dry mouth is contributing to caries or gum recession People should also pay especially close attention to their breath if they have diabetes, since diabetes-induced hardening of blood vessels harms gum health. It is also possible for bad breath to be caused by acid reflux, which would eventually erode enamel. Patients can somewhat mitigate all of these by drinking more water and getting fluoride topical treatments.

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Martin Urban, call 508-425-9640 or visit us at Martin Urban DDS.

 

Alzheimer's and Gum Disease

As periodontal specialists, we at the dental office of Dr. Martin Urban recognize how important healthy gums are for the entire body. Recent research has established connections between gum disease and diabetes, cirrhosis, and rheumatoid arthritis. Now, evidence is building that gum disease contributes to yet another common disease with life-threatening implications. We want our patients to know that good dental health could protect them from Alzheimer’s.

One of the species of oral bacteria that causes gum recession is Porphyromonas gingivalis. These bacteria protect themselves from white blood cells by producing toxic enzymes called gingipains. In one recent study, scientists found that people who displayed symptoms of Alzheimer’s had elevated levels of gingipains in their brains and neural fluid, with higher levels being found among people with worse symptoms. Gingipains are known from animal testing to be able to trigger the formation of neural plaque.

Another recent study found direct evidence of P. gingivalis moving from the gums to the brain in people who were still alive. Although doctors caution that this does not mean gum disease is the only contributor to Alzheimer’s, it does now appear to be a significant one. Previously, scientists had believed that Alzheimer’s was causing people to have bad oral hygiene, but the two now appear to function as a vicious circle. People who take good care of their teeth and gums may be able to avoid the cycle.

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Martin Urban, call 508-425-9640 or visit us at Martin Urban DDS.

 

Pregnancy and Gingivitis

Dr. Martin Urban is specially trained to treat patients suffering from gum disease. While it is important for everybody to maintain their oral hygiene, one group suffers from particularly high rates of gum inflammation: pregnant women. Since this population is especially vulnerable, we want them to understand what they should expect and how we are able to help.

Inflammation is how the body reacts to the threat of disease. When bacteria in the gum pockets secrete acid, the gums become inflamed, making cell membranes more permeable to antibodies and preventing the toxins from spreading. But inflammation also makes gums sore, discolored, and easily bruised, resulting in bleeding. When a woman is pregnant (or going through menopause), her body produces large amounts of a hormone called progesterone. This hormone triggers new blood vessel growth and increases blood flow to the gums. As a result, they are much more sensitive to oral bacteria and become inflamed more easily.

There is always a possibility that gingivitis will progress into periodontitis and threaten the integrity of gum tissue. However, this can usually be avoided through regular brushing and flossing. Pregnant women may want to stick to toothpaste for sensitive teeth, but they should be vigilant about removing food debris and acid. We can help them by providing deep cleanings to the gum pockets and using localized anti-bacterial medicines. We can also show them proper brushing and flossing techniques and examine bumps that sometimes develop in gum tissue during pregnancy

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Martin Urban, call 508-425-9640 or visit us at Martin Urban DDS.

 

Pericoronitis

Extractions and gum disease are of particular interest to us at Dr. Martin Urban’s Waltham dental practice. Sometimes, extractions need to be done to prevent or combat periodontal disease, particularly in cases described as “pericoronitis.” This term describes infection of gum tissue surrounding a dental crown that is impacted.

Impacted teeth are those that are unable to fully erupt. This is a common risk with wisdom teeth, which are the largest teeth and the last to come in. There is often not enough room for them, leaving them stuck only partially erupted. In some cases, a portion of the tooth is still covered by a flap of gum tissue, which is called an operculum. The space between the operculum and the tooth becomes an ideal hiding place for bacteria, causing gum infections that can easily get out of control.

A partially-erupted tooth will likely prove difficult to clean. A patient can swish warm saltwater in their mouth as an anti-bacterial measure and can take oral antibiotics, but in the long term, oral surgery may be necessary. We may cut away an operculum, but the impacted tooth will probably continue to cause misalignment until it, too, is removed. In younger patients, it may be possible for an orthodontist to use braces to guide an impacted tooth into place after some of the gum tissue covering it has been cut away.

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Martin Urban, call 508-425-9640 or visit us at Martin Urban DDS.

 

Tooth Sensitivity

It’s the season of ice cream, but for people with sensitive teeth, there’s less cause to be happy about that. We at Dr. Martin Urban’s Waltham office hope that all our patients are free of dental pain. If they do suffer from sensitivity, it could be a red flag for loss of enamel.

Each natural tooth contains a nerve and blood supply. Surrounding the dental pulp is a layer of hard material called dentin, which is a yellow-grey color. Enamel is the outermost layer of a dental crown and when it is thin, dentin may be visible through it. The roots of the teeth are surrounded by a substance called cementum, which is not as hard as enamel and serves to seal the tooth to its gum pocket.

Dentin is made up of tiny tubes and easily transfers heat to or from the dental pulp. When enamel has been reduced or gum tissue has receded, there is little to shield the sensitive nerve. Although a tooth may crack under pressure, it is more common for acid caused by bacterial infection or regurgitated by the stomach to dissolve enamel and gum tissue, making a tooth more sensitive. Implanted-supported crowns don’t have this problem, but we still work to preserve patients’ natural teeth by filling in cavities after drilling away infections. Patients may also try remineralizing their enamel by using extra-fluoridated toothpaste.

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Martin Urban, call 508-425-9640 or visit us at Martin Urban DDS.

 

Gum Disease and Rheumatoid Arthritis

It seems that every day we learn something new about the importance of gum health. As a dentist with special training in periodontics, Dr. Martin Urban is an expert in repairing and preventing gum damage. Recently, scientists found new evidence of a connection between gum disease and a certain kind of arthritis, so we wanted to make sure our patients understand why they should prioritize their gums.

Although Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is characterized by swollen joints, it is an autoimmune disorder. It occurs when the immune system attacks synovium, a joint lining tissue that shares a molecular similarity with gum tissue. Scientists have long known that people with RA are at particular risk for periodontitis and that this is not entirely due to their difficulty brushing and flossing, since gum disease symptoms tend to appear before their fingers swell up. New research has focused on how else the bacteria that cause gum disease affect the body.

Researchers found that the acid produced by some oral bacteria causes hypercitrullination, the excessive break-down of proteins. The body produces a large number of antibodies to destroy the deformed proteins, and the antibodies harm gum tissues as well as synovium. Currently, scientists are investigating whether treating gum disease can cause reduction in joint swelling. But regardless, it seems clear that it is good for patients’ joints to prevent gum disease from developing in the first place. If you’ve noticed your gums bleeding, don’t hesitate to give us a call.

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Martin Urban, call 508-425-9640 or visit us at Martin Urban DDS.

 

Dental Phobia

At Dr. Martin Urban, DDS we want our patients who suffer from Dental Phobia to have a good experience at the dentist.  Studies have shown that about 9% to 15% of people avoid going to the dentist every year due to dental phobia. It is important to get your teeth cleaned twice a year to maintain good dental hygiene. Patients who suffer from dental phobia have a greater chance of developing gum disease and tooth decay.

To make patients feel more comfortable before their visit, our staff will discuss any concerns or fears you may have.  Some signs that you might have dental phobia include tense or nervousness, sleepless nights before the dentist, and the thought of the dentist makes you feel sick.

We encourage our patients to ask us questions before your appointment so we can make you feel more comfortable. Your concerns are our number one priority and we are happy to discuss what can help to ease your fears.

If you have any questions or concerns, please give us a call. To learn more about the treatment provided at the dental practice of Dr. Martin Urban, DDS, visit www.martinurbandds.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Martin Urban, DDS in Boston, MA, call 508-425-9640. 

Preventing Gum Disease

At Martin Urban, DDS we advise our patients to practice good oral health care to prevent gum disease from forming. Gum disease begins when bacteria grows in your mouth and causes you to lose teeth if not treated properly. When bacteria in plaque build up on your teeth, your gums turn red or inflamed when brushing and flossing. Inflammation of your gums is likely a sign of gingivitis which is an early stage of gum disease.

Some symptoms of gum disease include swollen or bleeding in your gums, loose or shifting teeth, and persistent bad breath. Our doctors can diagnose the early stages of gum disease by examining your gums and the sensitivity of your teeth.

When possible, we encourage our patients to quit smoking or using tobacco of any kind as it increases your chance of developing gum disease. A proper diet of vitamins and nutrients goes a long way in repairing damaged tissue in your mouth.

Remember, the best way to fight gum disease is to practice good oral hygiene. Brushing twice a day and flossing will help to remove bacteria and plaque from your teeth and gums.

If you have any questions or concerns, please give us a call. To learn more about the treatment provided at the dental practice of Dr. Martin Urban, DDS, visit www.martinurbandds.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Martin Urban, DDS in Boston, MA, call 508-425-9640.

Gum Disease and Cirrhosis

As specialists in implants, we at the dental office of Dr. Marin Urban are particularly concerned about anything that could exacerbate gum disease. When gingivitis turns into periodontal disease, the integrity of the tooth roots or implant posts can be imperiled. But we also know that oral health is closely tied to overall wellness, and we wanted to share an exciting new study that found treating gum disease can also reduce the harmful effects of liver inflammation.

Cirrhosis is the term doctors use to describe the development of scar tissue on the liver. When the liver has been inflamed long enough to develop scar tissue, it is no longer an effective filter for toxins from the bloodstream. As a result, the patient’s immune system triggers the inflammation response elsewhere in the body, including the brain. Cognitive fog and mood swings are common results. Gum disease exists at particularly high rates in people with cirrhosis. This is partly explained by both resulting from smoking and alcohol, but it was less clear why gum disease would be disproportionately common in people with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.

Bacteria that cause gum disease have been found in the livers of cirrhosis patients. Recently, researchers conducted an experiment in which patients with both diseases were given gum cleanings at different times. The results were that cirrhosis symptoms such as cognitive fog and suppressed anti-inflammatory bacteria count improved following dental treatment. While we’re still learning more about the effect of oral bacteria on the rest of the body, we hope our patients will understand why dentistry is so important.

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Martin Urban, call 508-425-9640 or visit us at Martin Urban DDS.

 

Basic Dental Instruments

We provide advanced dental and periodontal restorations at the office of Dr. Martin Urban, but we want our patients to feel fully included in all our decisions. Many people suffering from severe tooth or gum decay feel apprehensive about visiting the dentist. They may feel a sense of helplessness born of an inability to describe what is happening; in which case we think it would be good for them to learn some of the language we use to describe our basic instruments.

When patients go to any kind of dentist, they can expect a hygienist to clean their teeth. The two tools the hygienist uses most are the handheld mirror and the explorer. The explorer, which can also be called a probe, is the wand with metal hooks on either end. The hooks come in different shapes for different tasks. Some are used to inspect the hardness of enamel and the cleanliness of the gum pockets. The explorer is also used to break apart hardened calculus, which is removed with a suction hose called an evacuator. This is the tube hygienists ask patients to close their lips around.

Sometimes, a dental extraction is necessary. Prior to removing a tooth, the patient will be numbed with local anesthetic delivered through a syringe. Inducing full unconsciousness is usually not necessary. A flattened spoon called an elevator will be slid between the tooth and the gum pocket and used to loosen it by rocking it back and forth. It can then be removed with reverse-action forceps.

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Martin Urban, call 508-425-9640 or visit us at Martin Urban DDS.

 

Periodontal Abscess

If plaque isn’t removed from adequate brushing and flossing, this bacteria may spread into the soft tissue of the tooth or gums and may result in a periodontal abscess. An abscess is a painful pocket of pus that stems from a bacterial infection, often one that has assembled in the soft pulp of one’s tooth. This is a painful condition that can be prevented by visiting Dr. Martin Urban, DDS twice a year for dental checkups.

A periodontal abscess can cause persistent and severe pain in the area that becomes affected. If one develops, the patient may notice swelling and redness. Other signs of a periodontal abscess include sensitivity to hot and cold beverages, pain while chewing, a loose tooth, and/or a bad taste in the mouth. A periodontal abscess will not heal on its own, so it’s best to visit Dr. Martin Urban, DDS to discuss your treatment options.

If you have questions or concerns regarding periodontal disease or a dental abscess, please give us a call. To learn about the services we provide at the practice, visit www.martinurbandds.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Martin Urban, DDS in Boston, MA, call 508-425-9640. 

Periodontal Disease: Periodontitis

If gingivitis is left untreated, it will advance to the second stage of periodontal disease, known as periodontitis. Periodontitis is a more aggressive form of gum disease because it has the ability to destroy the tissues surrounding the teeth which can lead to potential tooth loss. Untreated periodontitis will not only result in tooth loss, it may also increase the risk of stroke, and heart attack. Don’t let your oral health status reach this level, instead schedule a consultation with Dr. Martin Urban, DDS.

There are several forms of periodontitis – chronic, aggressive, and necrotizing. Imagine these stages moving from bad to worse. Chronic periodontitis is the most common and affects most adults. This type is caused by plaque buildup and involves slow deterioration that can cause destruction to the teeth. Signs and symptoms of periodontitis include swollen or puffy gums, gums that bleed easily, bad breath, loose teeth, and painful chewing. Treatment will depend on the level of severity.

If you have questions or concerns regarding periodontal disease, please give us a call. To learn about services we provide at the practice, visit www.martinurbandds.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Martin Urban, DDS in Boston, MA, call 508-425-9640. 

Periodontal Disease: Gingivitis

If you don’t maintain an adequate oral care routine, your gums will begin to develop gingivitis. Gingivitis is the earliest stage of gum disease, and though it’s reversible, prevention is important. Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is the infection of the tissues that surround the teeth and is caused by a buildup of plaque. Healthy gums are firm, and pale pink in color, if they are any other color, it’s important to visit Dr. Martin Urban, DDS to get the problem under control.

Bacteria will cause an inflammation of the gums and is usually left on the teeth from dental plaque. Dental plaque accrues after eating foods that are high in sugar and carbohydrates. Because bacteria thrive in a warm environment, it’s important to brush the teeth at least twice a day and floss at least once a day to keep them clean. If you spit a little blood in the sink while doing so, know that gingivitis is reversible if you can maintain flossing for at least seven days. Additionally, it’s important to schedule professional cleanings twice a year to prevent periodontal disease from becoming worse.

If you have questions or concerns regarding periodontal disease, please give us a call. To learn about services we provide at the practice, visit www.martinurbandds.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Martin Urban, DDS in Boston, MA, call 508-425-9640.