Many of Us Need Toothpaste to Do More Than Clean
Fort Pierce Dentist, Dr. Bob Gehrig Comments. . . .
Toothpaste - Choose Then Use the One You Love !!
Today a quick walk down the aisle of the grocery store or your local drug store can confuse a person who is only trying to buy a tube of toothpaste. There’s tartar paste, whitening paste, peri-dontal paste, sensitive tooth paste, non-abrasive paste and the list goes on and on.
My patients frequently ask me which paste do I recommend and is one toothpaste better than another. Do I really need toothpaste at all? won’t brushing with baking soda work just fine?
What’s really important is for you brush and floss at least twice daily. After that, your body will tell you if you need toothpaste for sensitive teeth. A glance in the mirror will likely let you know if a whitening paste would improve your smile.
Apparently, a colleague of mine from Pennsylvania had this to say recently, and I must say to him, “I couldn’t have said it any better”.
Choosing The Best Toothpaste
DO YOU EVER FEEL OVERWHELMED by the wide variety of toothpaste choices available at your grocery store or pharmacy? Don’t worry, you aren’t alone!
A recent American Dental Association survey found more than half the adults surveyed are concerned about caring for their teeth and gums and are confused about which dental products to buy!
Toothpastes come in a dizzying array of flavors, colors, and formulations, and it’s normal to feel a little swamped by the choices. Fortunately, choosing the right toothpaste for you really doesn’t need to be stressful.
If you brush and floss daily, get regular dental checkups, and use a “standard” toothpaste that contains fluoride, you don’t have much to worry about. However, to help you on your quest for the perfect tube of toothpaste, here are some suggestions…
As you’ve probably noticed, some specialty toothpastes include:
Tartar Control: these toothpastes usually contain sodium pyrophosphate or sodium hexametaphosphate, which help keep the tartar at bay and prevent stain above the gum line. However, these toothpastes are only useful in preventing new tartar, not getting rid of the stuff that’s already there! You’ll need a professional cleaning for that.
Antimicrobial: these toothpastes often contain stannous fluoride, which is an antibacterial agent that helps prevent cavities and treat sensitivity.
Whitening: Whitening toothpastes help remove and/or prevent stains from settling on your teeth. If used regularly, these toothpastes can make your smile brighter.
Choosing your toothpaste is a very personal decision; everyone has different preferences and dental concerns…Always remember, the best choice is one that you like enough to use twice a day!
Dr. Sattler and I agree on this for sure…. Your best choice is the one you want and will use at least twice a day. Oh, and it bears repeating to remember tartar control pastes only stop new tartar from building up. You need to keep your dental cleaning appointments to remove any old tartar.
Call 465-4545 and make your cleaning appointment today.
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Knowing Your Dental Sedation Options
Special Needs and Geriatric Dentist, Dr. Bob Gehrig, DMD
Dr. Robert Gehrig Has Privileges At Lawnwood Regional
Many people suffer needlessly from dental problems created when they postpone dental visits from some real or phobic fears of going to the dentist. Today, and in our office, this a needless fear because we practice all forms and levels of sedation based upon the patient’s needs. This has proven especially beneficial for our special needs patients who are frequently unable to communicate effectively.
We specialize in offering Nitrous Gas, Conscious Sedation, and General Anesthesia as an outpatient at Lawnwood Regional Medical Center and Heart Institute in Fort Pierce, Florida.
In a recent article, San Francisco Dentist, Dr. Itani explains these options for patients:
San Francisco Dentist Samer Itani, DDS Explains Sedation Dentistry Options for Those Who Need It
For patients who suffer from a phobia, extreme discomfort or a disability, a routine dental exam can be an extremely difficult experience. San Francisco dentist Dr. Samer Itani explains how the latest options in sedation dentistry can make visiting the dentist more comfortable for those who need special care.
….today there are many options, including sedation dentistry, that help patients overcome their fear and anxiety and assist with any other issues that prevent them from getting treatment.
OPTION #1: NITROUS OXIDE
The effects of nitrous oxide, or “laughing gas,” are known to be pleasurable and wear off shortly after the exam is over.
OPTION #2: ORAL SEDATION
In some cases, Dr. Itani may suggest an oral anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) medication like Valium, which can be administered with or without nitrous oxide.
OPTION #3: IV SEDATION
Intravenous (IV) sedation, also known as “conscious” sedation, puts patients in a sleep-like state of consciousness, which makes it comfortable to sit still through the appointment. Even in this semi-conscious state, patients are able to respond to questions and directions while they are medicated.
OPTION #4: GENERAL ANESTHESIA
The highest level of sedation… General anesthesia may be required for patients with extreme dental phobias, physical limitations, or developmental disabilities, and for those who need treatment that lasts a number of hours. It must be performed by an anesthesiologist and the dentist must be affiliated with a hospital.
We thought you’d like to know about these services and to learn Dr. Gehrig has privileges at Lawnwood Regional Medical Center and Heart Institute. You are in good hands at Family Oral Health, under the watchful eye of Dr. Gehrig.
If you’d like to become a new patient at Family Oral Health, please contact us today.
You can read the entire article above by clicking on this sentence.
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SomnoDent MAS Effective Treatment for
Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Are You Bothered by Snoring Nightly? You May Have Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA), a very common sleep disorder.
Read the questions below to see if you may have Sleep Apnea:
- Do you find you are gasping for air, snorting, or choking during night?
- Do you find it hard to stay awake during the day regardless of how much sleep you had the night before?
- Do you wake up feeling like you are out of breath?
- Do you experience restlessness in your sleep?
- Do you have frequent morning headaches?
- Do you get up several times during the night to go to the bathroom?
- Do you experience forgetfulness and difficulty concentrating during the day?
- Do you often wake up with a dry mouth or even a sore throat?
- Do you find yourself feeling depressed, moody, or irritable?
- Do you ever experience long pauses in your breathing while you are sleeping?
If you answered, “Yes”, to two or more of these questions, you should consider asking your dentist or physician if you might have a sleep disorder, and perhaps Sleep Apnea.
Did you know this information about Obstructive Sleep Apnea?
- 40 – 80% of stroke victims also suffer from OSA. (Mehta A, et al: A Randomized, controlled study of Mandibular Advancement Splints for Obstructive Sleep Apnea. Am J Respir Crit Care Med 2001; 163: 1457-1461)
- People with OSA are 4 times more likely to have a heart attack. (Lattimore, J et al. J Am Coll Cordial 2003: 41: 1429-1437)
- Patients with OSA use CPAP for less than five hours per night on average. (Engleman, et al: Compliance with CPAP therapy in patients with sleep apnea/hypopnea syndrome. Respiratory Medicine Unit, City Hosp, Edinburgh EH10 558)
- If you have Sleep Apnea, you are twice as likely to die in your sleep and 7 times more likely to have a motor vehicle accident. (Smith R, Ronald J, Delaive K, et al, “What are obstructive sleep apnea patients being treated for prior to this diagnosis?”, Chest, 121, 164-172., 2002.) (Kryger MH, Roos L, Delaive K, et al, “Utilization of health care services in patients with severe obstructive sleep apnea”, Sleep, 19, 5111-5116, 1996.)
- OSA Patients are at a 40% greater risk of having depression. (Smith R, Ronald J, Delaive K, et al, “What are obstructive sleep apnea patients being treated for prior to this diagnosis?”, Chest, 121, 164-172., 2002.)
- Individuals with OSA are also more likely to have sexual impotence and develop diabetes. (Babu AR, Herdegen J, Fogelfeld L, et al., “Type 2 diabetes, glycemic control, and Continuous Positive Airway Pressure or CPAP in obstructive sleep apnea”, Arch Intern Med, 165, 447-452, 2005) (Harsch IA, Hahn EG, Konturek PC, “Insulin resistance and other metabolic aspects of the obstructive sleep apnea syndrome”,Med Sci Monit, 11, RA70-75, 2005.)
For full copies of the studies mentioned in this article, please visit the Somnomed website or call 1-888-447-6673.
The SomnoDent® MAS is a highly effective solution, for the majority of patients suffering from Obstructive Sleep Apnea.
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91% of patients reported substantial improvement in sleep quality with the SomnoDent® MAS.
(Mehta A, et al: A Randomized, controlled study of Mandibular Advancement Splints for Obstructive Sleep Apnea. Am J Respir Crit Care Med 2001; 163: 1457-1461)
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96% of patients with proven OSA stated they would like to continue to use the SomnoDent® MAS.
(Mehta A, et al: A Randomized, controlled study of Mandibular Advancement Splints for Obstructive Sleep Apnea. Am J Respir Crit Care Med 2001; 163: 1457-1461)
Somnodent MAS Device vs. the Continuous Positive Airway Pressure or CPAP Machine to treat Obstructive Sleep Apnea Successfully and Comfortably
Frequently Asked Questions About the Somnodent MAS
When Is It Worn?
The SomnoDent® MAS is only worn when you sleep. The SomnoDent® MAS is very discrete, allowing you to close your lips so it is not obvious you are wearing it.
Is It Comfortable?
You won’t find a more comfortable MAS. Why? Because it is custom-made to fit your mouth and it does not impinge on your tongue. You can open and close your mouth normally as the SomnoDent® MAS does not lock or fix your jaws together.
Is There A Warranty?
Yes. The SomnoDent® MAS offers a one year warranty against manufacturing defects, which means you can have full confidence in the product.
What If I Have A Bridge Or A Denture?
Patients with dentures may be successfully fitted with the SomnoDent® MAS, as long as there are sufficient teeth on the lower arch for optimal retention. Your dentist will be able to address this with you. SomnoDent® MAS may be fitted over dental implants.
What Will Dr. Gehrig Do?
Dr. Gehrig will thoroughly examine your teeth and mouth and may use X-rays to confirm your oral health status, as well as ensuring that you are dentally appropriate for the splint. Dental impressions are required to fabricate a SomnoDent® MAS. They are then sent to our laboratory where the appliance is made. Once custom made for you, the appliance will be fitted by Dr. Gehrig who will show you how to insert and remove it yourself, as well as how to clean and care for it.
Features & Benefits
- Permits normal mouth opening
- Allows speech and drinking
- Unrestricted tongue space
- Full lip-seal
- Easily adjustable
- Safe and effective
- Clinically validated
- Custom fitted
Ask Dr. Gehrig or your physician for more information.
Special Needs Dentistry For Those In Need
Special Needs Dentistry Helps a Stroke Patient
Special needs dentistry, or special care dentistry, provides oral health for people who have physical, mental or medical challenges. Dr. Gehrig attends to these patients in our handicap accessible office or provides care and treatment in a nursing facility or hospital. House calls may also be accommodated for special needs patients.
Modern dentistry offers many options to correct dental problems and treat each patient who requires special care. Special needs may apply to people who have an impairment or disability because they are mentally challenged, medically compromised, physically challenged or suffer from such disorders as Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. In our office, all patients are provided with comprehensive and confidential treatment.
People with special conditions need the same basic needs as all patients, the American Dental Association notes. These patients may include people with stroke, spinal cord injury, multiple sclerosis, mental retardation, Down syndrome, genetic disorders or severe ailments such as arthritis. Regular dental visits help special needs children and patients avoid unnecessary dental problems. The experienced staff at Dr. Gehrig’s office plays a vital role in providing treatment plans for disabled patients in the Fort Pierce-Port St. Lucie area. The office facilities include comfortable areas that are accessible for the disabled, or arrangements can be made for out-of-office care.
The friendliness and skills of Dr. Gehrig and the office staff help in educating patients with special needs, just as other patients are educated in the importance of dental care. In some cases, disabilities can make oral hygiene difficult. Dr. Gehrig and staff members have the training and experience to improve and simplify at-home dental health, so special needs patients can feel more in control of their personalized dental care. Caregivers are also offered advice on the dental needs for patients.
As with all other patients of Dr. Gehrig, special needs patients benefit from the wide range of
Special Needs Dentistry for This Little Girl
services available. Special needs dentistry includes providing patients with restorations, crowns, bridges, implants, root canals, extractions, biopsies of soft tissue, complete and partial dentures, treatment for temporal mandibular joint or TMJ disorder, periodontal exams and maintenance, cleanings and cosmetic analysis.
Dr. Gehrig discusses treatment plans for special needs patients, based on their individual needs and preferences. A consultation explains all options available to patients to correct dental problems and to keep their teeth healthy with regular visits and treatment. Special needs patients have enough concerns in handling their particular disabilities.
Special needs dentistry is very “special” to Dr. Gehrig and he cares for those unable to come in the office by visiting the nursing homes and through hospital consultations. Having the proper oral health and fewer worries about future dental problems allows patients to enjoy healthy lives, thanks to the friendly, experienced staff at Family Oral Health on the Treasure Coast.
Dr. Gehrig’s Column Is Back!
A few years back, like many others, Dr. Gehrig and Family Oral Health Associates ventured out and onto the Internet. Like many other professions, Dentistry is constantly improving and changing. We wanted to start his dental advice news column anew, and found this piece.
Unlike many articles on dentistry, this one still rings true so we thought it only fitting to bring it back for your review. Dr. Gehrig continues to be right on point with this one. We hope you enjoy learning how to avoid the erosion of enamel from your teeth.
Just When You Thought Your Teeth Were Safe
by Dr. Robert D. Gehrig, DMD
September 2nd, 2008
You brush and floss just like your Dentist and Hygienist have instructed you to do and you had no problems for a number of years. The only work you have had done is some
Cross Section of a Tooth Showing Enamel Coating
tooth whitening. Going to the dentist for your regular preventative maintenance has been uneventful. But, your next appointment is coming up and you have noticed some increased sensitivity along the gum line and your teeth seem to be getting yellower even though you are using“whitening” toothpaste. You are worried that you have decay or possibly gum disease. What is happening?
Modern oral hygiene techniques have practically eliminated many of the problems past generations have had with their teeth. Decay and gum disease have been greatly reduced with the use of fluoride dentifrices and improved oral home care. But, modern life styles and diet have produced new threats to our oral health. So what can we learn to prevent these new problems?
Let us talk about diet first. We all know about processed foods and sugary sticky type foods as a threat, but what about carbonated beverages and sports drinks? Carbonated beverages such as sparkling water and sodas have a very acidic nature. The “bubbles” are produced by dissolved carbon dioxide gas. This produces a very potent acid environment that can dissolve your enamel. Try this experiment. Swish some cola or other soft drink in your mouth for a few seconds, swallow, and then rub your front teeth together. Instead of feeling smooth, they will be a little “gritty”. That is because a microscopic amount of enamel has been dissolved. Dental professionals are seeing much more of this occurring especially in teens. It is called erosion and can produce cupped out areas on the surface of the back teeth and thinner enamel on the front teeth.
Another form of erosion comes from brushing with abrasive toothpaste. This type of erosion occurs along the gum-line and produces notches in the teeth especially in the canine and premolar areas. Patients who are aggressive brushers and use high abrasive toothpastes are also thinning the enamel on the front of their teeth and their teeth are getting darker due to the dentin showing through. In just the last couple of years this has been recognized as a major threat to our teeth.
In order to protect your teeth from erosion, limit the amount of carbonated beverages and sports drinks you consume each day. Don’t swish the drink before swallowing and drink with a straw so the liquid stays away from your teeth as much as possible. Try switching to low calorie, non-carbonated water based drinks such as green teas, flavored waters, and just plain water. Watch out for juices and drinks with citric acid as they can be just as damaging. Remember moderation is the key.
Brush your teeth with low abrasion fluoride toothpaste. If you do not build up a lot of tarter or calculus, don’t use tarter control toothpastes. Most people don’t need them and they contain ingredients that can interfere with your saliva’s natural repair process. Most toothpaste manufacturers do not list their abrasiveness on the label, so how do you know which one to use? You cannot go by brand as varieties within the same brand can vary in abrasiveness greatly. Go to http://www.epinions.com/content_3128664196. You can use this list as a guide. Try to choose a dentifrice under “75”. Most, but not all, of the Arm & Hammer toothpastes are low in abrasion. A new toothpaste is on the market that is also good and it is Sensodyne Pro Enamel.
Finally, pay attention to your heartburn. You may have Gastric Reflux Disease (GRD). The fluid in your stomach can be very acidic also. Untreated GRD can lead to damage to your stomach, esophagus and teeth. Seek the advice of your physician and dentist. A good article can be found at World Dental.org, an online Dental Health Magazine .
Geriatric Dentistry – Special Care for Special People
Geriatric Dentistry For The Ones You Love
Normal aging brings with it age-related disorders, which requires special dental care to help older adults with the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of dental problems. The skills and experience in geriatric dentistry by Dr. Gehrig and his staff provide these older patients with the necessary dental care and proper oral health.
Some older patients may face multiple medical conditions, dental complexity, diminished functional status or loss of independence in the aging years. Seniors benefit from the proper advanced techniques in dental care in comfortable, relaxed surroundings from Dr. Gehrig.
Older patients in the Fort Pierce and Port St. Lucie areas are fortunate to benefit from Dr. Gehrig’s experience in supporting and enhancing the oral health necessary for the elderly. Poor oral health becomes a risk factor in the overall general health for older people. Aging increases the risk of conditions or diseases in the gums and teeth. Root caries, attrition, periodontal disease and missing teeth as well as ill-fitting dentures, dry mouth or oral ulceration increase as people age. Declining immunity in the aging years also poses dental problems. Sometimes, simple medications for other health issues can affect a person’s oral condition.
Geriatric Dentistry for Senior Smiles
Dr. Gehrig helps improve the quality of life for older patients with his experience and skills also used in special needs dentistry. Age may increase the risk of ailments such as arthritis, for example, making it difficult for elderly patients to take care of their teeth. Dr. Gehrig provides older patients in the Fort Pierce-Port St. Lucie area with comfortable office accommodations to analyze and treat patients to repair and help them avoid dental problems. Dr. Gehrig also helps patients in nursing home facilities or arrangements can be made for house calls in certain cases. The staff at the Treasure Coast office can also educate older patients whenever possible in ways to improve their personal care with the disabilities they may have.
Older patients need and receive the same basic dental care as all patients who visit Dr. Gehrig’s office. The treatment may include restorations, crowns, bridges, implants and other fixtures to help seniors enjoy their lives with healthy teeth, which helps improve their attitude, appearance and overall health. The geriatric dentistry procedures from Dr. Gehrig and his highly-qualified staff provide elderly patients along the Treasure Coast with the latest in dental care in coordination with other health care professionals to reduce normal aging problems in a pleasant, comfortable atmosphere. Dr. Gehrig has the understanding of the medical and dental aspects of aging to repair any damaged barriers to healthy living with his expertise in managing elderly dental care.
Surgical Dentistry & Oral Health
Surgical Dentistry and Big, Beautiful Smiles
Surgical dentistry, also known as oral surgery, involves dental procedures that alleviate problems with your teeth and gums. Dr. Gehrig and his staff offer surgical techniques that are as painless and comfortable as possible for patients. Dr. Gehrig’s team assures patients they will receive the best professional care without the worry or stress involved in anticipating dental surgery. The professional dental surgery performed at Family Oral Health Associates limits the discomfort and post-operative pain sometimes associated with oral surgery. Your dental problems will not only be corrected, but you will also once again be sporting healthy teeth and a bright smile.
The surgical dentistry procedures at Dr. Gehrig’s office include most extractions, biopsies of soft tissue and mini implants. Services also include preparation for and applying complete dentures, immediate dentures, partial dentures, implant retained dentures and partials. Surgical dentistry may involve root canals, crowns, veneers, bridges and other minor applications for your dental or cosmetic needs. Dr. Gehrig will refer you to highly qualified specialists in the Fort Pierce and Port St. Lucie area for more complex oral surgery.
Patients receive thorough examination, evaluation and consultation before Dr. Gehrig proceeds with necessary oral surgery. Extractions may be necessary because of decay or shifting of certain teeth from damage. Simple procedures remove teeth that are not comfortably visible or partially hidden. In some cases, crowns, partial dentures or implants can protect your teeth for health or cosmetic reasons. Other issues may call for extractions, including teeth that haven’t developed properly and block the function of other teeth or preparation for bridges, braces or cosmetic measures. Tooth replacement may be necessary because of accidents. Patients can have their damaged or lost teeth repaired or replaced when coming to a dentist for immediate attention.
Surgical Dentistry Brightens Teeth
You can keep a beautiful smile with implants and partial dentures when certain teeth must be removed. Dr. Gehrig and his staff at family oral health can perform this procedure, which not only restores the appearance of your teeth, but also avoids dental distortion that leads to other problems due to lost teeth. Surgical dentistry plays an important role in maintaining oral health by preventing damage to tissue and the formation or your overall teeth. Dr. Gehrig can advise you on ways to keep your teeth healthy with necessary additions and replacements while improving your appearance. Yes, oral surgery also provides more attractive teeth in many cases. It’s not uncommon for patients who have lost or damaged teeth to leave Dr. Gehrig’s office with a brighter, happier smile and a new outlook on life after only a few sessions, thanks to modern dental technology!
There’s no longer any fear for patients who need dental work and oral surgery. You will be surprised how much can be done to restore your dental health by visiting the office of Dr. Gehrig in the Fort Pierce and Port St. Lucie area. Local anesthesia makes dental work pain-free whether you need extractions, crowns, bridges, implants, partials or other additions for healthier teeth and a remarkably improved appearance.
Surgical dentistry is a vital part of the service we offer through Dr. Robert D. Gehrig, DMD. Please see other services available by visiting our services page.
Fort Pierce and Port St Lucie Preventative Dentistry
Family Practices Preventative Dentistry at Home
Preventative dentistry focuses on the beginning or potential progression of oral disease to maintain healthy teeth and gums. Finding early signs of decay or gum disease, also called periodontal disease, not only stops the development of dental problems, but also saves you medical costs in the long run. Dr. Gehrig and his staff perform thorough examinations to spot early signs of dental decay, receding gum lines or any oral changes that signal immediate attention for lifelong dental health.
Services in the Fort Pierce and Port St. Lucie area office include teeth cleaning to remove tartar—harmful deposits that form on the teeth and gum line—as well as examination of the teeth and soft tissue with various screening methods. Comprehensive exams include panoramic and digital radiographs, head and neck exams, bite and jaw joint analysis and a cosmetic assessment. Newer techniques in dentistry include computerized devices to measure the bacterial content in the mouth for early diagnosis of periodontal disease. Dr. Gehrig performs a medical review of your health conditions and medications before examining existing teeth, restorations and appliances. A detailed treatment plan is then provided for you with consultation, based on your individual needs and personal preferences, always with your budget in mind to fit your particular care.
Dr. Gehrig and his staff recommend appointments twice a year for examination, periodic cleanings and sometimes fluoride treatment to prevent cavities and other dental problems. When you stop in for a simple dental check-up every six months, you will find that Dr. Gehrig’s preventative and family dentistry care makes visits quick, easy and sometimes fun. That’s because your friendly partnership with your Treasure Coast dentist and staff results in few if any dental issues. The underlying conditions have been discovered and treated long before you develop major problems.
Preventative Dentistry care becomes an important function in oral health starting in childhood. When children are evaluated at a young age, it can provide a lifetime of dental-free problems and bright smiles. Your friendly dentist can provide young children with fluoride supplements and applications, such as sealants on children’s teeth to protect crevices and other areas of the teeth from bacteria and prevent tooth decay. Childhood is also a time to find potential risks and correct a child’s bad bite to avoid dental problems down the road. Dr. Gehrig’s Preventative Dentistry Practice offers peace of mind for patients throughout the Fort Pierce-Port St. Lucie area with thorough examinations that ease your family of worries as your children grow with healthy teeth.
You can also protect your child’s oral health starting from infancy, even before teeth appear, by
Preventative Dentistry Tools for the Family
cleaning your child’s gums after feeding. Brushing and flossing play key roles in dental health as children progress into adolescence. Childhood is a good time to learn about preventative treatment. Your dentist can do everything possible to keep teeth protected from cavities and gum disease, but preventative dentistry care also takes place at home.
Regular dental visits protect the oral health of children and adults, but practicing dental hygiene continues through your daily life. Dr. Gehrig and his staff can educate patients about at-home care for children and adults, explaining the proper techniques for brushing and flossing to remove plaque from between the teeth and at the gum line. Regular brushing, flossing and mouth rinses, along with proper nutrition, make your visits to Dr. Gehrig’s Fort Pierce office a friendly and enjoyable routine.
Robert Gehrig, DMD – Fellowship in General Dentistry
General Dentistry - Xrays of the Teeth Periodically
Aside from the many services offered at Family Oral Health, Dr. Gehrig also includes primary dental care through general dentistry for people of all ages to treat you and your entire family with overall oral health protection. General dentistry handles the diagnosis, treatment and coordination of services to meet all of your dental health needs. Dr. Gehrig is highly trained to offer all dental procedures for patients in the Fort Pierce-Port St. Lucie area and can refer you to specialists in certain cases.
When you join the family of Dr. Gehrig and his staff you will receive a variety of treatments and services available. These services include composite restorations, or tooth-colored fillings; porcelain crowns, porcelain fused to gold crowns and gold crowns; fixed bridges, porcelain bridges, porcelain fused to gold bridges and bonded bridges; restoration of implants, including crowns, bridges and implant retained removable dentures, and endodontics, or root canals.
Oral surgery performed by Dr. Gehrig includes most dental extractions and minor surgeries, such as biopsies of soft tissue, preparation for dentures and mini implants. Dr. Gehrig also provides complete dentures, immediate dentures, partial dentures, and implant retained dentures and partials. For complex oral surgery in the Fort Pierce and Port St. Lucie area, you will be referred to highly qualified specialists.
Routine periodontal maintenance, including exams and cleanings, prevents gum disease. Even with healthy teeth, some people may experience damage to their gums around the roots of the teeth over the years without periodic examinations. Gum disease can loosen teeth and eventually cause them to fall out. Routine treatment prevents the potential progression of gum disease. Along with periodontal exams, Dr. Gehrig offers deep cleanings of soft tissue and minor surgery to prevent gingivitis, an inflammation of the gums around the roots of the teeth. For advanced periodontal issues, you will be referred to highly qualified specialists.
Treasure Coast patients with temporal mandibular joint disorder, also known as TMJ, can find relief and reduction of symptoms with treatment at Dr. Gehrig’s office. Services include occlusal or molar guards and bite adjustments in coordination with oral surgeons, neurologists, orthodontists and chiropractors.
Cosmetic treatment offered through general dentistry includes bonding, bleaching, night guards,
General Dentistry Includes Night Guards and Whitening
veneers, minor orthodontics and replacement of silver fillings. The techniques are done in a relaxed environment to make patients as comfortable as possible. Sedation and general anesthesia are available. Dr. Gehrig has privileges at Lawnwood Regional Medical Center and Heart Institute.
The care and treatment offered by Dr. Gehrig and his staff provide you and your family with long-term dental health. Continued education and knowledge on the latest procedures involved in general dentistry brings patients in the Fort Pierce and Port St. Lucie area top-quality treatment for all family practice and general dental needs.