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Common Oral Health Problems That Affect Your Smile

July 27, 2015

ThinkstockPhotos-164144314Keeping your mouth happy and healthy shouldn’t have to feel like a chore. It should be second nature. Think about it: from the time you were a tyke, you should have been taught how to properly brush and floss your teeth. Some patients have the process down pat, others find themselves struggling with keeping up with their dental regimen. A rare collection of patients doesn’t properly care for their teeth at all. You don’t want to become one of “those” patients. Not caring for your teeth is just plain dumb. Putting your smile at risk of contracting a disease will increase the likelihood of more problems arising, including losing your teeth altogether. You like your teeth, right? We like teeth, too. We like them so much that offering advice on how best to care for them is what we enjoy doing. An educated patient is an informed patient. When you visit our office in San Marcos, TX, you’ll receive the best dental care from San Marcos dentist Dr. Robert Donnelly and Dr. Gregory Wang.

Common Dental Problems and How to Prevent Them

Dental issues can creep up at a moment’s notice, and sometimes symptoms are too difficult to notice. The most common oral health problems are three-fold:

  • Cavities
  • Gum disease (periodontitis)
  • Clenched jaw

Cavities: Did you know tooth decay is the second most prevalent disease after the common cold? Regular brushing and flossing can help keep cavities at bay, in addition to dental sealants and fluoride treatments. If you’re a fan of sugary treats and drinks, we have bad news: you might want to curb your sugar addition. Sugar is enamel’s worst enemy, and can contain enamel-harming acid.

Gum disease: When your gums are on the decline, the rest of your smile suffers. Preventing gum disease is quite simple, but the power is your hands. Floss once a day and brush twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush. If you use an electric toothbrush, just make sure the bristles are soft. We also recommend getting a professional cleaning twice a year. It’s better to be safe than sorry, right?

Clenched jaw (TMJ): Grinding your teeth or clenching the jaw is the most common cause of TMJ. It isn’t just a sore jaw you have to deal with, either; gum disease, tooth erosion and cracked teeth can be caused by excessive grinding. Our mouthguards reduce the pressure on your teeth and jaw so you can enjoy living in comfort.

See Us To Receive Proper Treatment

Dr. Donnelly and Dr. Wang are the dentists New Braunfels and other residents can trust to treat common dental health issues. Our office in San Marcos, TX is pleased to staff dentists Wimberley, Redwood, Hunter, Martindale, and other residents can appreciate for their experience and professionalism. We can’t wait to see you!

 

 

Expert Sedation Dentist, San Marcos

July 6, 2015

ThinkstockPhotos-168372883 (1)If the thought of going to the dentist makes your heart race and sweat break out on your forehead, you’re not alone. Millions of Americans suffer from some level of dental anxiety, but at San Marcos Gentle Dental, we are dedicated to providing patients stress free, painless dental health care. That’s why our San Marcos, TX practice offers oral conscious sedation to help patients relax and enjoy their dental visit. Call the office of Dr. Robert Donnelly to schedule an appointment or find out more about sedation dentistry today.

Oral Conscious Sedation Dentistry, New Braunfels

Sedation dentistry has several levels, and there are numerous sedation methods. At San Marcos Gentle Dental, we offer our patients oral conscious sedation. This level of sedation is generally considered ideal for any level of anxiety, and for preparing patients to undergo multiple or extensive treatments. Patients with extreme levels of dental anxiety may be offered a sedative to take the night before their appointment to help them sleep, and will be given a sedative about an hour before their visit to help them relax.

Patients who receive oral conscious sedation should not drive or operate other machinery, so you’ll need a friend or family member to drive you to your appointment and pick you up. Patients with several dental anxiety may request to take their sedative at home before arriving at the office, but we recommend taking a sedative after arriving at our office. This allows our staff to monitor your vital signs as the sedative takes effect, and provide treatment at the optimal time.

The effects of sedation will vary between patients, but typically, people are able to relax into a sleep-like state. Many patients do not fall fully to sleep, but are extremely relaxed and not fully aware. As your procedure is performed, you will be given a warm blanket, and our team will monitor your vitals throughout the procedure for your safety.

Benefits of Sedation Dentistry

Sedation dentistry has made it possible for many dental anxiety sufferers to return to the dentist and achieve a happy, healthy smile, but sedation dentistry has helped dentists treat patients of all kinds with less pain. Patients who benefit from sedation dentistry include those with:

  • Sensitive teeth and gums
  • Sensitive gag reflex
  • Alzheimer’s disease or other cognitive disorders who otherwise become anxious because they may not understand their treatment

Sedation dentistry has also made it possible for dentists to perform numerous or complex dental procedures at one time saving patients time and money without causing undo pain or stress.

Learn More About Sedation Dentistry, San Marcos

If you are interested in finding out more about sedation dentistry and how it could benefit you or your family, call San Marcos Gentle Dental to find out more or schedule a consultation today. Our friendly staff, has made your comfort and peace our top priority. Don’t let fear keep you from the dental care you need. Our San Marcos office welcomes patients from New Braunfels, Kyle, Wimberley, and beyond.

The Most Advanced Dental Technology for Our Patients

May 23, 2015

465217799At San Marcos Gentle Dental, we believe that our patients deserve only the very best when it comes to dental technology. That’s why we have equipped our state-of-the-art dental office with the latest in technological advancements in the dental industry, giving our patients the clear advantage in oral healthcare. Dr. J. Robert Donnelly and Dr. Gregory Wang invite you to enjoy the innumerable benefits afforded by our top-of-the-line dental technology.

Digital X-Rays

Digital radiography allows our team to capture clearer, more accurate images than traditional x-rays. In addition, digital x-rays expose patients to up to 80 percent less radiation, and they’re better for the environment. The digital images of your teeth and jaw can be easily stored and shared as needed.

No-Drill Dentistry

For most patients, the thought of the dental drill is one that elicits instant feelings of fear and anxiety. Fortunately, our office uses the Whisper Jet decay removal system, a type of technology that allows us to treat cavities without any needles or drills. In many cases, no anesthesia is required.

3D Digital Imaging

Also known as Cone Beam CT imaging, 3D digital x-rays are particularly useful in the planning of dental implant placement and orthodontic treatment. Because of its unique composition, this precision equipment uses approximately 10 times less radiation as compared to conventional medical CT scanning devices.

DIAGNOdent Dental Caries Detection

DIAGNOdent laser cavity detection allows us to find and treat tooth decay before it becomes visible to the naked eye. The pen-like laser checks the health of the tooth for any signs of cavities, even those that are located between teeth.

Schedule Your Next Visit Today

Other vital technologies that we employ at San Marcos Gentle Dental include CAD/CAM imaging, The Wand anesthesia delivery, Cavitron ultrasonic scaling, chairside monitors and satellite radio, intra-oral cameras, and more. Allow us to show you what a difference our technology can make in your next dental experience. Contact us today to speak with a member of our friendly, knowledgeable staff and to schedule your next visit with our team. Our San Marcos, TX dental office proudly serves patients from nearby communities in Austin, New Braunfels, Kyle, Wimberley, Buda, and beyond.

What You Need to Know About Gum Disease & Overall Health

April 23, 2015

454389001According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately half of American adults over the age of 30 suffer from periodontitis. That’s 64.7 million cases, many of which are left untreated until the problem becomes severe. The American Academy of Periodontology considers this a “significant public health problem,” and for good reason. While bleeding gums and sensitivity are the most common symptoms of gum disease, there are even more serious implications associated with the condition. Today, we’d like to take a moment to inform our patients of the lesser-known effects of periodontal disease.

The Oral Systemic Link Explained

When your gums become infected, the harmful bacteria that reside within your mouth pose a very real threat to organs and tissues throughout the rest of your body. In fact, numerous studies have proven the existence of a link between untreated periodontal disease and severe medical conditions, including:

  • Coronary artery disease
  • Pulmonary hypertension
  • High blood pressure
  • Cancer of the pancreas and/or blood
  • Osteoporosis
  • Rheumatoid arthritis
  • Heart attack
  • Stroke
  • Complications in the treatment of diabetes
  • Pre-term birth and low birth weight in babies whose mothers have gum disease

Fortunately, regular periodontal therapy can dramatically reduce your risk of developing these and other health complications. Our team will work with you to formulate a treatment plan that addresses your unique needs, giving you the clear advantage when it comes to the fight against gum disease.

Healthier Gums, Longer Life

If you are suffering from the effects of periodontal disease, don’t wait another day to take the first step toward a healthier smile and improved well-being overall. Contact us today to schedule your visit with Dr. Donnelly and our caring, experienced team of oral health professionals in San Marcos, TX. Very often, periodontal disease can be managed effectively with more frequent deep cleanings and exams. Our family-friendly dental practice warmly welcomes patients from San Marcos, Austin, New Braunfels, Buda, Kyle, Wimberley, and beyond.

Rest Soundly with Non Invasive Snoring and Sleep Apnea Therapy in San Marcos, TX

March 23, 2015

460211887Do you struggle to breathe while sleeping? If you awake at night feeling short of breath or unable to breathe, you may already have sleep apnea. Sleep apnea is a persistent, debilitating, and possibly life-shortening sleep disorder that’s estimated to affect over 22 million Americans. Most patients with sleep apnea don’t even realize they have a problem. But if left untreated, the disorder can lead to depression, heart disease, diabetes, and chronic daytime fatigue. If you suspect that you may be suffering from sleep apnea, schedule the sleep apnea therapy appointment you need with Dr. Donnelly at San Marcos Gentle Dental today. Dr. Donnelly is a trusted San Marcos family dentist, now delivering quality care daily throughout San Marcos, TX, Kyle, Wimberley, New Braunfels, and the surrounding communities.

What Is Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea is actually an involuntary stoppage of breath while sleeping. There are three categories of sleep apnea: obstructive sleep apnea, central sleep apnea, and a combination of the two. Of these three types, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is the most common. Despite the difference in causes of each type, with all three, breathing stops repeatedly during sleep, sometimes hundreds of times per night, often for a minute or longer. Since these pauses rarely trigger a full awakening, most patients fail to realize what’s happening.

Do You Have Sleep Apnea?

Although all patients with sleep apnea also have a snoring problem, most people who snore don’t have obstructive sleep apnea. You may have sleep apnea if:

  • You suffer from loud and persistent snoring
  • You experience pauses in breathing, accompanied by gasping episodes while trying to sleep
  • You are excessively sleepy during normal waking hours

Dr. Donnelly Offers Snore Guard Therapy to Treat Sleep Apnea Symptoms

Snore guards look similar to the athletic mouth guards worn by ball players. Dr. Donnelly can prescribe custom fabricated snore guards to eradicate your sleep apnea and snoring symptoms. The appliance can be worn in the mouth during sleep, and works by re-positioning the lower jaw slightly forward of its natural rest position. This small change is typically enough to keep your airway open as you sleep, thus eliminating snoring problems and associated sleep apnea symptoms.

San Marcos Sleep Apnea Therapy Appointments

If you’re looking for a reliable sleep disorder solution, schedule a sleep apnea therapy appointment with Dr. Donnelly at San Marcos Gentle Dental today. Dr. Donnelly is a leading San Marcos family dentist, now proudly serving patients daily throughout San Marcos, TX, Kyle, Wimberley, New Braunfels, and neighboring areas.

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