At Designing Smiles in Roseville, MN, we understand that your dental health and your physical health are interconnected. When you experience dental problems, your risk of other health conditions increases. For instance, if you have untreated decay, bacteria can easily move to other teeth, your gum tissue, and even into your bloodstream! And rampant periodontal disease can have even more drastic consequences. Studies show that patients with gum disease are twice as likely to suffer from a heart attack or stroke.
To improve all aspects of your oral-systemic wellbeing, Dr. Deborah Fung is dedicated to preventive care.
Biannual checkups and cleanings are essential for good oral health. With regular cleanings, your hygienist can remove bacteria, plaque, and tartar before they cause cavities or gum disease.
If you do develop gum disease, a deep cleaning (or scaling and root planing) can stop its progression and prevent tooth loss. During a deep cleaning, Dr. Fung will remove bacterial pockets from your gums and rough spots from your tooth roots. Our ultrasonic scalers produce rapid vibrations that will thoroughly eradicate bacteria with less impact to your gum tissue.
Chronic teeth grinding, called bruxism, can cause dental erosion and cracked teeth. It can also put enormous strain on your jaw joints, eventually leading to TMJ disorder. TMJ disorder can also result from dental misalignment, improper jaw development, and other factors.
To treat both bruxism and TMJ disorder, Dr. Fung offers custom oral appliances. Bruxism devices simply prevent teeth grinding, while TMJ disorder splints can actually reposition the jaw.
Because TMJ disorder is a complex condition with many underlying causes, there are a number of treatment options. Orthodontia, including palatal expanders, is often beneficial. We also use the Biolase® laser to reduce pain and muscular inflammation.
You may be surprised to learn that your dentist can treat your sleep disorder. Actually, a qualified dentist can provide highly effective care with a comfortable, discreet, and easily portable oral appliance. Your device will realign your jaw to open up your airways and enable free, unobstructed breathing.
Sleep apnea treatment is an important part of our commitment to oral-systemic wellness, since untreated Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) can have serious health consequences. Not only can it lead to chronic fatigue, irritability, and depression. Untreated sleep apnea can significantly increase your risk for heart attack, stroke, and type 2 diabetes, among other conditions.
Don’t neglect your oral health - or your overall well being. Contact us today to schedule a preventive exam and cleaning. Call us at (651) 636-2143 or reach us online.
We are located in Roseville and serve patients from many of the nearby communities, including Arden Hills, Shoreview, St. Paul, Minneapolis, and New Brighton.
