tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26143901848045383392024-03-13T10:32:14.015-07:00Mark Ngo, DMD BlogAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15619576012011683962noreply@blogger.comBlogger6125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2614390184804538339.post-45616730101192553512018-04-02T08:00:00.000-07:002018-04-02T08:00:33.893-07:00Tips for At-Home Healthcare<br />
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Prevention is a person’s ultimate defense against the
development of oral health concerns. By keeping dental issues from occurring,
you also protect your overall well-being. Mark T. Ngo, DMD, helps patients
maintain the aesthetic and condition of their teeth and gums, by providing tips
for an effective dental care routine. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Dr. Ngo offers the following advice to keep your smile
healthy and beautiful for a lifetime. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Fundamentals to Oral Hygiene<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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Your toothbrush is your biggest asset when it comes to
removing bacteria and cleansing the surfaces of teeth. It is in your smile’s
best interest that you choose a brush with soft bristles to reach all the nooks
and crannies of your teeth. A brush with hard bristles can scrub your teeth too
forcefully and damage the enamel. Toothbrushes with soft bristles are also more
effective in removing the bacteria between the gaps of teeth. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>There is More to the Basics<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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While many people are aware about the importance of brushing
and flossing your teeth twice a day, it is just as essential to your oral
health that you handle your toothbrush in the correct manner. It is commonly
believed that you should hold your toothbrush parallel to the gums. This is
actually false universal method. You should position your brush at a 45-degree
angle to make sure you remove the bacteria on the surface of your teeth. Also,
dentists recommend for you to brush in short, gentle strokes to cleanse away
harmful microbes and prevent the spread of decay. <o:p></o:p></div>
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When it comes to flossing, use an 18 to 22 inch piece of
floss, wrapping each tooth and scraping up to clear stubborn food particles. Be
sure to use a clean section of floss between every tooth. For people with
difficulty maneuvering dental floss, interdental cleaners are available and
work just as well.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Chew Away Food Debris<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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Sugarless gum with an ADA seal has some benefits for your
dental health. The gum is sugarless so it does not contribute the production of
bacteria. When you chew the gum, it dislodges the food particles left behind on
the surface of your teeth. Food debris can increase the rate at which tooth
decay spreads, so having it as a snack between brushings keeps your smile
healthy. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Water to Hydrate and Wisk Away Microbes<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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It is well-known that you should drink lots of water on a
daily basis, but consuming H2O washes away leftover microbes. In addition to
its hydration benefits, most tap water contains fluoride which strengthens
tooth enamel and prevents the development of cavities.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">If you would like to know more about how to keep your smile healthy and
beautiful, contact our Pyuallup, WA dentist today! Dr. Ngo wants his patients
to take every step possible to protect teeth and gums by having an effective
oral hygiene routine. </i></b><o:p></o:p></div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15619576012011683962noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2614390184804538339.post-67768493534724238122016-02-29T12:00:00.000-08:002016-02-29T12:00:05.010-08:00Treating Periodontal Disease<div class="MsoNormal">
Effective oral hygiene can go a long way in protecting
smiles from decay and damage. However, some patients may still find themselves
facing certain dental conditions. In particular, <a href="http://www.markngodmd.com/procedures/periodontal-disease/" target="_blank">gum disease</a> is one of the most
common oral conditions affecting countless adults across the country. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Treating gum disease is based on the progression of the
condition. While easily preventable, gum disease has few noticeable symptoms,
allowing it progress without interruption until significant damage has been
done to the patient’s smile and overall health. As a result, while patients who
are able to identify and treat their case of gum disease during the early
stages are often able to prevent escalation, many often seek treatment during
the late stages when more extensive treatments are the only option. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Depending on the progression of your gum disease, treatment
may include:<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Deep cleaning</b> - Also known as root planing and scaling, deep
cleanings are effective treatment for mild periodontitis. During the scaling
procedure, tartar is scraped from above and below the gum line, preventing
bacteria accumulation and plaque buildup. Root planing occurs below the gum
line on the tooth root, during which special tools are used to remove rough
spots on the roots that may attract bacteria build-up.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Antibiotics</b> – Recommended in cases of mild to advanced
periodontitis, antibiotics are used to kill off bacteria, preventing the
progression of the condition. Antibiotics can be applied a number of different
ways, as either a prescribed mouthwash or as a gel administered below the gum
line. At our Puyallup dental office, we prefer antibiotic chips. These are
small pieces of gelatin that contain the antibiotic medication and are placed
within the periodontal pockets. Over the course of a week, medication is slowly
released, killing off bacteria in the pockets and preventing recolonization. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Soft Tissue Grafting</b> – For patients suffering from gum
recession as a result of periodontal disease, gum grafting can restore aesthetics
to the smile while preventing further recession. During this procedure, donor
tissue is taken and placed in areas of recession. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Bone Grafting</b> – More of a restorative treatment rather than
an immediate cure, bone grafting is offered when the condition has caused bone
deterioration, thereby compromising the stability of the teeth. During this
treatment, donor tissue is placed in the deficient area. Over the course of
recovery, the tissue is integrated into the bone, ensuring future jaw stability.
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At the <a href="http://www.markngodmd.com/" target="_blank">dental office of Mark T. Ngo</a>, DMD, our mission is to
help patients achieve lifelong oral health through improved patient education
and comprehensive preventive care. By teaching patients about the symptoms of
periodontal disease, our Puyallup dentist is able to help individuals protect
their smiles and overall oral health. For more information about preventing and
treating periodontal disease, <a href="http://www.markngodmd.com/contact/" target="_blank">contact Dr. Ngo today</a>. <o:p></o:p></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15619576012011683962noreply@blogger.com0819 39th Ave SW, Puyallup, WA 98373, USA47.155155 -122.3030473999999721.500083500000002 -163.78742239999997 72.8102265 -80.818672399999969tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2614390184804538339.post-10283885963103581522016-02-22T12:00:00.000-08:002016-02-22T12:00:02.486-08:00The Secondary Consequences of Gum Disease<div class="MsoNormal">
While easily preventable, <a href="http://www.markngodmd.com/procedures/periodontal-disease/" target="_blank">periodontal diseas</a>e affects
countless adults annually, making it one of the most common oral conditions.
When left untreated, this condition can begin to have domino effect-like consequences
on other parts of the body, jeopardizing a person’s overall health. Some of
these consequences include:</div>
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<b>Heart Disease</b> – As the gums are highly vascular, research
suggests that bacteria can easily enter into the bloodstream, triggering
inflammation of other organs, including the heart. Additionally, gum disease
can also exacerbate existing cardiac issues. As a result, consulting with your
physician prior to receiving gum disease care can ensure you remain healthy
throughout treatment. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Stroke</b> – Similar to heart disease, studies have indicated
the existence of a link between gum disease and stroke. In regards to the
stroke and gum disease relationship, bacteria may cause the carotid arteries to
become thicker, preventing sufficient blood from flowing to the brain, thus
increasing the likelihood of a stroke. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Diabetes</b> – As severe periodontitis can increase blood sugar,
gum disease can also make it more difficult for diabetic patients to control their
blood sugar, putting them at a higher risk of diabetes related complications.
Gum disease is also considered a side effect of diabetes, as these individuals
are often more susceptible to other diseases. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Respiratory Illness</b> – Recent studies have also indicated a
link between upper respiratory conditions and periodontal disease, highlighting
the fact that gum disease-causing bacteria are inhaled into the respiratory
tract. This can lead to an increased risk of developing pneumonia, acute
bronchitis, and COPD. As these conditions can be particularly devastating for
immune-compromised patients, this discovery is particularly important for
emphasizing the relationship between the health of the dentition and the
patient’s overall health. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Osteoporosis</b> – If left untreated, periodontal disease can
cause bone deterioration in the jaw, compromising the integrity of the face and
stability of the teeth in the arch. For patients with osteoporosis, periodontal
disease can lead to accelerated bone and tooth loss, limiting the function of
the dentition. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>High-Risk Pregnancies</b> – Hormonal change can significantly
influence the development of gum disease. For expectant mothers, periodontal
disease can lead to the likelihood of high-risk pregnancy, causing premature
birth and low birth weight.<o:p></o:p></div>
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In Puyallup, <a href="http://www.markngodmd.com/" target="_blank">Dr. Ngo and his team</a> are committed to helping
patients maintain healthy smiles and consistent overall health. If you are
exhibiting signs or symptoms of gum disease, <a href="http://www.markngodmd.com/contact/" target="_blank">contact our Puyallup dentist</a> today
to schedule your next appointment. <o:p></o:p></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15619576012011683962noreply@blogger.com0819 39th Ave SW, Puyallup, WA 98373, USA47.155155 -122.3030473999999721.500083500000002 -163.78742239999997 72.8102265 -80.818672399999969tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2614390184804538339.post-75685656529078186442016-01-15T12:00:00.000-08:002016-01-15T12:00:14.008-08:00Seeking the Right Restorations<div class="MsoNormal">
When it comes to determining the best solution for restoring
your smile post-trauma, decay, or extraction, patients often find themselves
considering a broad spectrum of factors such as cost, recovery, and long-term
function. While it may be tempting to select treatment based on which is least
expensive, it is important to consider the long-term health implications that less
comprehensive treatments may have on a patient’s overall oral health and
function. With this in mind, patients should consider the following when
picking their restorative treatments:</div>
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<b>Function<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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While some restorations may provide adequate function,
patients should be looking for a restorative treatment that closely mimics
their natural teeth. For example, <a href="http://www.markngodmd.com/procedures/dental-implants/" target="_blank">dental implants</a> and implant-supported
restorations are designed to function precisely like natural teeth, providing
individuals with a comfortable prosthetic tooth that is highly resilient and
able to withstand routine wear and tear. With dental implants, patients are
able to once again enjoy long term oral function.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Aesthetics<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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While minimal restorations are often able to enhance the
natural beauty of the smile, extensive damage can often require
less-aesthetically driven restorations. As a result, patients with full or
partial dentures may find themselves unsatisfied with the bulky look and feel
of their prosthetic. In contrast, dental implant restorations are uniquely
matched to the natural teeth, providing patients with a seamless, natural
looking smile.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Health<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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To provide the most functional benefit to patients,
conventional restorations such as bridges, dentures, and partials are supported
by surrounding oral structures such as neighboring teeth and gums. This can
compromise the long-term health and function of these oral components,
potentially leading to more extensive dental issues in the future. <o:p></o:p></div>
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In comparison, dental implants are surgically embedded into
the jaw bone, eliminating the need to alter the neighboring teeth. The surgical
placement of implants also has the added benefit of incorporating the jaw bone
into treatment. Not only does this provide a sturdy foundation for the future
restoration, but it also encourages improve bone health, thereby preventing
additional bone deterioration and tooth loss. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Cost<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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Initially, conventional restorations may seem to be less
expensive. However, the long term maintenance and replacement costs can quickly
add up, making these treatment options consistently more expensive. While
dental implants may require greater initial investment, the health and
functional benefits of this treatment often provide patients with a greater
return on their oral health investment. <o:p></o:p></div>
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At<a href="http://www.markngodmd.com/" target="_blank"> Mark T. Ngo, DDS</a>, our Puyallup dental team is committed
to providing patients with the best solution for their oral health needs. For
patients considering long term restorative solutions, Dr. Ngo works with
leading local oral surgeons to place and restore dental implants. For more
information, <a href="http://www.markngodmd.com/contact/" target="_blank">contact our Puyallup dentist</a> today. <o:p></o:p></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15619576012011683962noreply@blogger.com0819 39th Ave SW, Puyallup, WA 98373, USA47.155155 -122.3030473999999721.500083500000002 -163.78742239999997 72.8102265 -80.818672399999969tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2614390184804538339.post-86052311926624233152016-01-05T07:30:00.000-08:002016-01-05T07:30:56.590-08:00Understanding Periodontal Disease<div class="MsoNormal">
While highly preventable, gum disease is an exceedingly prevalent
gum condition capable of wreaking havoc on a patient’s dentition. Often
patients aren’t even aware that they are exhibiting symptoms of the gingival
condition until their dentition and oral health have already been compromised.
As a result understanding what gum disease is and how to identify symptoms are
a critical part of patient education that can make the difference in protecting
your smile. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>What is Gum Disease?<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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Gum disease occurs when plaque builds up and hardens into
tartar. During this initial stage of gum disease, known as gingivitis, the
accumulation of tartar fosters accelerated bacteria growth, which causes gum
irritation and redness. When left untreated, gingivitis progresses into
periodontitis. In this second phase of the disease, the bacteria begin to
create pockets between the teeth and gums, causing visible gum recession as
well trapping food and bacteria in these periodontal pockets. <o:p></o:p></div>
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The final stage of gum disease, known as advanced
periodontitis, is marked by the bacteria beginning to attack the bone and
connective tissue which hold the teeth in place. As a result, patients
experiencing this final stage of gum disease may also notice that their teeth
becoming loose or even falling out in areas where the soft tissue has been
severely affected by gum disease. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>The Symptoms of Gum
Disease<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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Often, patients fail to recognize the symptoms of gum
disease before they are ready well into the second and third stages of
periodontal disease. However, early identification can help patients protect
their smile from the extensive damage that can be caused by untreated
periodontal disease. Some of the initial symptoms patients experiencing
gingivitis may exhibit include:</div>
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<li><span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; text-indent: -0.25in;"> </span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Swollen, soft, tender or puffy gums</span></li>
<li><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Gums that bleed easily when brushing or flossing</span></li>
<li><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Bad breath</span></li>
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As the condition progresses into periodontitis or advanced
periodontitis, patients may experience additional, more noticeable symptoms.
These may include:</div>
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<li><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Gums change color from a healthy pink to a
bright red or purple</span></li>
<li><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Swollen or tender gum</span></li>
<li><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Gum recession, evidenced by the teeth appearing
longer than normal</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; text-indent: -0.25in;"> </span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">New spaces developing between the teeth or a
change in how the teeth fit together</span></li>
<li><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Loose teeth</span></li>
<li><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Bad breath or a bad taste</span></li>
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<b>Diagnosing Gum
Disease in Puyallup</b></div>
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At the <a href="http://www.markngodmd.com/" target="_blank">South Puget Sound dental practice</a> of Dr. Mark T. Ngo,
our team is committed to helping patients regain their oral health. By
providing periodontal care and long-term maintenance, our Puyallup dentist can
help you regain a healthy smile. For more information about periodontal care,
<a href="http://www.markngodmd.com/contact/" target="_blank">contact Dr. Ngo today</a>. <o:p></o:p></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15619576012011683962noreply@blogger.com0819 39th Ave SW, Puyallup, WA 98373, USA47.155155 -122.3030473999999721.6331205 -163.61164139999997 72.6771895 -80.994453399999969tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2614390184804538339.post-60824234312682167222015-10-05T12:51:00.005-07:002015-10-05T12:51:44.032-07:00We're excited to announce the official launch of our Mark Ngo, DMD's blog. <br /><br />We'll be posting helpful dental tips, news from the dental industry, news from our practice, and more about the latest in dentistry.<br /><br />We built our practice on the notion that we're there for our patients when they need us and we want our online presence to be a reflection of that principle. We hope this blog provides an extra level of service to our current and future patients. <br /><br />If you would like to stay up to date on the latest from Mark Ngo, DMD's, simply click the RSS “Subscribe to feed” link located on our <a href="http://www.markngodmd.com/">website</a> and subscribe. Our subscribers will be updated when we make a new blog post.<br /><br />Here's to your best oral health ever!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15619576012011683962noreply@blogger.com0