Preventative Care

Preventative Dentistry

Routine Cleaning

We consider these sessions to be one of the most valuable services we offer to our patients. Regular dental visits are the best and most efficient way to maintain your teeth.

For patients with good oral hygiene (ie: no gum disease) and with minor restorative needs, your teeth will be cleaned by the dentist or licensed dental hygienist on the first visit. Otherwise, a separate appointment may be necessary to initiate treatment. Our team of professionals are dedicated to you receiving maximum longevity from your natural dentition.

For patients with major dental need. After your preventative appointment, we will explain your dental evaluation and plan for treatment. Immediate needs as well as long-term objectives will be based on the goal of your receiving maximum life for your natural teeth.

The key to long-term success and good oral health is to develop a proper maintenance program between you and your dentist that best fit your specific needs.

Periodontal Treatment

Periodontal disease is also known as gum disease. Bleeding gums can be a sign of gum disease, which can range from a mild gum inflammation (gingivitis) to serious disease.

Serious gum disease can result in major damage to the soft tissue and bone that support the teeth. In the worst cases, teeth are lost. This is why it is important to consult Dr. Babik at the very first sign of gum disease.

Gum disease is a threat to oral health and many people—an estimated 80 percent of American adults—have it. Whether it is stopped or slowed or gets worse depends largely on how well you care for your teeth and gums every day. The effects of gum disease go well beyond your mouth.

What Causes Periodontal / Gum Disease?

What Causes Periodontal / Gum Disease?

Our mouths are full of bacteria. These bacteria, along with mucus and other particles, constantly form a sticky, colorless film called “plaque.” Brushing and flossing help get rid of plaque. Plaque that is not removed by brushing and flossing can harden and form “tartar,” which brushing does not clean. Only a professional cleaning by a dentist or dental hygienist can remove tartar.

What are the risk factors for periodontal disease? Daily brushing and flossing, and regular check-ups, of course, help protect you against periodontal disease, but other risk factors can take effect:

Smoking: Need another reason to quit smoking? Smoking is one of the most significant risk factors for periodontal disease, and can lower the chances of success of some treatments.

Periodontal Treatment — Richmond, VA — Dr. Babik & Associates

Hormonal changes: In girls and women, hormonal changes can make gums more sensitive.

Diabetes: People with diabetes are at higher risk for developing infections, including periodontal disease.

Stress: Research shows that stress can make it more difficult for our bodies to fight infection.

Medications: Some drugs, such as antidepressants and some heart medicines, can lessen the flow of saliva, or give you a feeling of a dry mouth. (Saliva has a protective effect on teeth and gums.)

Illnesses: Some diseases, like cancer of AIDS, and their treatments can also affect the health of gums.

Genetic susceptibility: Some people are just more prone to severe periodontal disease than others.

Teeth Grinding & TMJ 

Why is grinding teeth harmful?

Teeth grinding over a long period of time can cause fracturing, loosening, or loss of teeth. In severe cases, it can lead to hearing loss, TMJ (temporomandibular joint disorder) and even change the appearance of your face.

How do I find out if I grind my teeth?

If you grind your teeth at night, you might experience headaches, teeth sensitivity, loose teeth, and periodontal bone loss, and/or jaw tenderness. Make an appointment to have your mouth examined by Dr. Babik. He might find abnormalities in your teeth that indicate possible teeth grinding.

What can I do to stop teeth grinding?

Dr. Babik can make some recommendations. He can fit you with a customized mouth guard to protect your teeth from grinding during sleep. The mouth guard, made of soft or hard acrylic, will be comfortable to sleep in. When you get used to it, you will find it to be more comfortable than sleeping without it.

Teeth Grinding — Richmond, VA — Dr. Babik & Associates
Young Girl Dental Patient — Richmond, VA — Dr. Babik & Associates
Mouth Guard — Richmond, VA — Dr. Babik & Associates

In severe situations, where tooth structure is lost, a more definitive treatment, such as crown or veneers may be indicated. See Dr. Babik for the best recommendations for further treatment.

Teeth Grinding & TMJ 

Why is grinding teeth harmful?

Teeth grinding over a long period of time can cause fracturing, loosening, or loss of teeth. In severe cases, it can lead to hearing loss, TMJ (temporomandibular joint disorder) and even change the appearance of your face.

How do I find out if I grind my teeth?

If you grind your teeth at night, you might experience headaches, teeth sensitivity, loose teeth, and periodontal bone loss, and/or jaw tenderness. Make an appointment to have your mouth examined by Dr. Babik. He might find abnormalities in your teeth that indicate possible teeth grinding.

What can I do to stop teeth grinding?

Dr. Babik can make some recommendations. He can fit you with a customized mouth guard to protect your teeth from grinding during sleep. The mouth guard, made of soft or hard acrylic, will be comfortable to sleep in. When you get used to it, you will find it to be more comfortable than sleeping without it.

In severe situations, where tooth structure is lost, a more definitive treatment, such as crown or veneers may be indicated. See Dr. Babik for the best recommendations for further treatment.

Teeth Grinding — Richmond, VA — Dr. Babik & Associates
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