We are your local North Oaks MN Dentist – we are happy to serve our community for over 20 years!

Welcome! We’re glad you’ve chosen us as your dental healthcare provider. Our goal is to provide you and your family with optimal dental care and to make sure you feel comfortable throughout the process. We encourage you to ask questions and to be involved in treatment decisions with your North Oaks MN Dentist.

Our Qualified Dentists

We offer a number of general and specialized dentistry options to suit all ages and needs:
  • Family & General Dentistry
  • Cleanings & Prevention
  • Dental Exams
  • Cosmetic Dentistry
  • Periodontal Disease
  • Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery
  • Invisalign® & Braces
  • Botox®
  • Restorations
  • Dental Implants
  • Professional Teeth Whitening
  • Orthodontics
  • Periodontics
  • Root Canal Therapy
  • Healthy Smile Program
  • Laser Dentistry
Our teamContact us

 651-429-0404

Frequently Asked Questions

How Can I Tell If I Have Gingivitis or Periodontitis (Gum Disease)?

Four out of five people have periodontal disease, but most don’t know it because the disease is painless in its early stages. Unlike tooth decay, which often causes discomfort, you can have periodontal disease without noticeable symptoms. Having regular dental check-ups and periodontal examinations are very important to detect if periodontal problems exist.

Periodontal disease begins when plaque, a sticky film of bacteria and food debris, is left on the teeth.  The bacteria produce toxins (acids) that inflame the gums, causing them to slowly destroy bone supporting the teeth.  Brushing and flossing regularly and properly will ensure that plaque is not left behind to do its damage.

North Oaks MN Dentist

north oaks mn dentist
north oaks mn dentist

Periodontal Disease Risks

Besides poor oral hygiene, there are several other factors that may increase your risk of developing periodontal disease:

  • Smoking or chewing tobacco – Tobacco users tend to have more plaque and tartar buildup on their teeth than nonusers.
  • Certain tooth or appliance conditions – If your bridge no longer fits, if your teeth are crowded or if you have defective fillings, those may trap plaque and bacteria.
  • Many medications – Steroids, cancer therapy drugs, blood pressure meds and oral contraceptives can cause dry mouth and reduce saliva production. These changes make it easier for plaque to adhere to your teeth and gums.
  • Pregnancy, oral contraceptives, and puberty – Gum tissue can become more sensitive to bacteria toxins, which may cause changes in hormone levels.
  • Systemic diseases – Diabetes, blood cell disorders, HIV / AIDS, etc.
  • Genetics may play role – Some patients are more susceptible to a more aggressive type of periodontitis. People with a history of tooth loss in their family should be especially vigilant about checking their gums.

There are many things that can make you suspectable to periodontitis disease (gum disease). If you have one or more of these factors, you may be at risk for gum disease. Contact your local North Oaks MN dental office to schedule an appointment with our professional and trusted dentists.

Signs and Symptoms of Periodontal Disease

  • Red and puffy gums – Gums should never be red, swollen or tender.
  • Bleeding gums – When you brush your teeth, gum irritation is a common problem. However, bleeding gums are not normal and can be a sign of gingivitis.
  • Persistent bad breath – Caused by bacteria in the mouth.
  • New spacing between teeth – Caused by bone loss.
  • Loose teeth – It can also be caused by bone loss or weakened periodontal fibers, which support the tooth to the bone.
  • Pus around the teeth and gums – Sign that there is an infection present.
  • Receding gums – Loss of gum around a tooth.
  • Tenderness or Discomfort – Plaque, calculus, and bacteria irritate the gums and teeth.

Good oral hygiene, a balanced diet, and regular dental visits can help reduce your risk of developing periodontal disease.

If you suspect you may be suffering from gum disease, it is important to bring this up with your trusted North Oaks MN dentist. We can give an exam and address any things that may be causing you discomfort. We will talk you through what can be done to help you if you do have gum disease. We want to help you have good teeth and oral health! We care about each of our patients and want to help you walk away feeling like you get taken care of well. We know how important oral health is so we look forward to helping you at your next appointment! To schedule an appointment with us, fill out our appointment form linked here. We will get back to you to confirm your appointment so we can get you on the schedule soon!

north oaks mn dentist

CONTACT DETAILS

4641 WHITE BEAR PARKWAY, WHITE BEAR LAKE, MN 55110
DDS1@BIRCHLAKEDENTAL.COM
651-429-0404

 

OPENING HOURS:

Monday-Tuesday   9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Wednesday     7:00 am – 5:00 pm
Thursday     7:00 am – 2:00 pm
Friday     By appointment only
Saturday-Sunday     CLOSED