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Frequently Asked Questions

Do you take Care Credit?

Yes

How do I handle a dental emergency?

There are many precautions that you can take to avoid a dental emergency. Maintain healthy teeth by visiting your dentist regularly, wear a mouth guard when playing sports, avoid chewing ice, popcorn kernels and hard candy and use scissors to cut rather than your teeth. Even when all precautions have been taken, accidents do happen and knowing what to do can mean saving or losing a tooth. Here are some common dental emergencies and how to handle them. With any dental emergency, contact your dentist immediately.

Broken/Cracked Tooth

This may or may not be painful. If there is bleeding, it can be stopped by applying gentle pressure. Rinse the area with warm water to cleanse. Use a cold compress to keep swelling down and take an over the counter pain reliever to reduce any pain or discomfort.

Knocked Out Tooth

Timing is critical if a tooth is knocked out. There is a good chance the tooth can be re-implanted if you see your dentist within 30 minutes. Handle the tooth by the crown (part that is visible in mouth) and avoid touching any attached tissue. If possible, place the tooth back in the socket and gently hold in place. If this is not possible, place the tooth in milk or salt water. Get to your dentist as soon as possible. Remember to take the tooth with you.

Lost Filling or Broken crown

A lost filling may be replaced with a temporary material that can be purchased at the drug store. The filling should then be replaced permanently by your dentist to prevent decay from food or bacteria. An over the counter pain medication will reduce swelling and/or pain caused by an infection. A crown that comes off should be re-cemented to avoid decay on the remaining tooth structure. A small amount of temporary material or toothpaste can be used to hold the crown in place until your visit with the dentist.

Toothache

Toothaches generally require immediate attention. A bacterial infection can worsen rapidly and could require antibiotics. Take an over the counter pain medication, avoid extreme temperatures and sweets as not to aggravate the symptoms. A warm compress and a rinse with warm water to cleanse the area may provide some relief. Never apply pain medicines directly to the gums, this may cause a burn. At the office of Dr. Charles E. Lee, III appointments are available for those unanticipated dental emergencies.

Why all the fuss about gum disease?
Periodontal (gum) disease is a condition in which bacteria attack the tissues that surround and support the teeth. It is a progressive problem that if not treated, will eventually result in tooth loss. Because it is often painless patients are not even aware that they have a problem until the gums and bone are seriously affected. The early stage of gum disease is called gingivitis. Gingivitis is a condition in which the gums are inflamed or swollen. A crevice (or pocket) between the tooth and gum can be up to 4mm deep. This indicates that the bone is probably still in good shape, but the supporting gum tissue has begun to detach. As these crevices deepen to 4-6mm deep, mild to moderate periodontitis sets in. The bone begins to erode and without treatment the crevice deepens even more and eventually the tooth loosens and falls out. Recent research suggests that there may be a link between periodontal disease and other health concerns such as stroke, cardiovascular disease, bacterial pneumonia and there is an increased risk during pregnancy. Tobacco use also increases the risk for gum disease.

Early signs of gum disease include, but are not limited to:

  1. Gums that bleed easily
  2. Red, swollen or tender gums
  3. Gums that have pulled away from the teeth
  4. Persistent bad breath or bad taste
Prevention is always the first line of defense. Good oral hygiene begins at home. Brushing twice a day and flossing once a day will prevent plaque from accumulating. Regular dental check-ups are also important because the dentist or hygienist will measure the crevices and advise treatment accordingly.Periodontal disease will not go away by itself. Preventing and treating the disease is the best way to keep your smile healthy!
What insurance do you accept?
We are a contracted provider for Metlife Dental, Delta Dental, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Georgia and United Concordia. We can file ANY PPO or traditional insurance plan. Please call the office with any insurance question.

Every patient should have a great dental experience!

Hours

Tues – 8:00AM – 5:00PM
Wed – 8:00AM – 5:00PM
Thurs – 8:00AM – 5:00PM
Fri – Closed

770-965-5548

drcharleselee@gmail.com

7380 Spout Springs Road, Suite 120 Flowery Branch, GA 30542

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