Common Dental Problems

If your gums bleed when you brush, you likely have gingivitis - an early stage of periodontal disease.

Gingivitis begins when bacteria and plaque form at the gum line. The gum tissue becomes inflamed and may bleed easily with brushing and flossing. Left untreated, gingivitis can progress to an infection of the gums - periodontitis. At advanced stages, periodontitis destroys supportive gum tissue and bone, leading to tooth loss.

Fortunately, the early form of gum disease can be treated and corrected before progressing into a more serious dental condition. An effective home care routine of brushing and flossing, combined with regular visits to see Dr. Barker and your dental hygienist for a cleaning and checkup, are your best defense against the plaque and bacteria that lead to gum disease.

Visit the American Dental Association® website mouthhealthy.org for helpful information and videos about gingivitis and bleeding gums.

There are a number of reasons that teeth may become ‘sensitive.’ Tooth sensitivity typically occurs when the enamel has been weakened over time by excessive wear, or acidic foods and drinks. The worn enamel allows hot, cold, acidic or sugary substances to penetrate in small amounts through to the nerve, causing discomfort. If there are no other underlying causes, such as tooth decay or fracture, a toothpaste formulated for sensitive teeth may be recommended to sooth tooth sensitivity.

Teeth may also become sensitive with signs of gum disease. The plaque and bacteria that form at the gum line will eventually cause the gum tissue to recede, exposing tooth root surfaces. These ‘pockets’ that form between the tooth and gum will make teeth more susceptible to sensitivity from certain foods, beverages, or hot and cold temperatures.

If particular teeth are highly sensitive, this may be a sign of tooth decay or fracture. Even a small cavity can cause a lot of discomfort. A minor crack or flaw in a tooth will leave the nerve unprotected, which can be quite painful. A tooth that has been weakened by decay or fracture will show signs of sensitivity, and worse, will continue to erode.

It is important to address signs of sensitive teeth as soon as possible to rule out, or treat, underlying dental conditions that may be causing the discomfort. Schedule a complete examination today to discuss any concerns you may have with Athens dentist Dr. Lane Barker.

Many of us regularly enjoy a cup of coffee, a glass of tea, or red wine. Unfortunately, over time dark beverages and foods can lead to stains on our teeth that are nearly impossible to remove with brushing and flossing alone.

By now we all know how harmful smoking and tobacco use is for our health. But even when you've ‘kicked’ the habit, you may be left with brown and yellow stains on your teeth.

Much of the staining from normal day-to-day activities can be removed at your regular dental cleaning appointments. Your dental hygienist will remove plaque and tartar build up, as well as polish away the stains on your teeth.

After your teeth are ‘sqeaky-clean,’ you may still feel that your teeth appear dull and your smile is not as bright as it used to be. Our Athens dental office offers professional teeth whitening services for patients who want a brighter, whiter smile.

Professional strength dental whitening is convenient, effective and safe. Learn more about the teeth whitening products and services we offer.

Over time, a complete or partial denture can become loose and ill-fitting. Your denture may move when you talk, or slip when you eat. This can be embarrassing and create sore spots on your gums.

The bone and gum level may be receding where teeth are missing, making it difficult for your denture to hold firmly in place. Your dentist can make adjustments to the denture to help it fit more securely. Dental adhesives may also help to reduce movement of the denture, thus reducing sore spots.

Dr. Barker may recommend implant dentures to correct problems with loose dentures. A full upper or lower denture can be secured in place with multiple dental implants, often referred to as ‘all on four’ implants. A partial denture can be secured with one or more implants optimally placed to stabilize your dental prosthetic.

Learn more about dental implants and implant-secured dentures.

Snoring is common and occurs when the soft tissue at the back of the mouth and throat relax and vibrate during sleep. The air flow is disturbed, but not fully obstructed. Frequent snoring can disrupt your sleep, leaving you feeling tired during the day, interfere with your daily activities, and can have adverse effects on your overall health.

In some cases, loud, disruptive snoring is a sign of a more serious condition: Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA). People who suffer from sleep apnea don't just snore - their airway becomes completely obstructed during sleep. Their breathing pauses briefly several times during the night, and may resume with a gasp for breath.

Many patients with sleep apnea respond well to CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) therapy. Some patients, however, find CPAP machines uncomfortable and difficult to wear, leading them to seek an alternative.

Sleep apnea oral appliances have proven effective for many patients. They are worn over the teeth, like a mouth guard. These oral appliances are custom-designed to securely fit your teeth, holding the jaw in a slightly forward position to help keep the airway open.

Learn more about Obstructive Sleep Apnea and oral appliance therapy.

If you have a toothache, it is important to be seen by a dentist as quickly as possible. You may have developed an infection or abscess caused by tooth decay. Local anesthetic will quickly relieve the pain and allow the dentist to determine the cause and appropriate treatment.

If you have experienced an accident or sports injury resulting in a painful, broken or cracked tooth, try to gently rinse the affected area clean of debris, apply a cold compress to the side of the face to help reduce swelling, and call our office 706.607.9772.

A tooth that has been significantly damaged by decay or trauma may require removal. Dr. Barker performs routine and minor surgical tooth extractions in the comfort of our Athens dental office, Magnolia Dental Spa.

If you are experiencing a toothache or dental emergency, please call our office 706.607.9772. For extreme swelling or pain after hours, please go to the nearest hospital emergency room.