For a simple extraction of one or two teeth, local anesthesia is often used to numb the area. But for removing multiple teeth, IV sedation is offered to patients with severe dental anxiety.

Most tongue bites heal on their own in a few days and don’t need medical treatment. However, if the bite is serious, experts at Topeka Oral Surgery can help. For severe bites, a doctor may have you rinse your mouth with water to see the injury better. If there’s swelling, applying ice wrapped in a cloth can help. In some cases, kids might need stitches for tongue bites longer than 2 cm that incorporate the lateral aspect of the tongue or tip. Common punctures of the tongue require no surgical intervention.

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is common among people over 60. It’s caused by bacteria in plaque (a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth when leftover food particles and saliva mix in the mouth) that irritate the gums, making them swollen, red, and prone to bleeding. Gum disease doesn’t usually cause pain in its early stages, making it easy to miss and ignore. If left untreated, gum disease can severely damage oral health. As it progresses, it causes gums to pull away from teeth and roots, creating pockets where food and more plaque can build up. Early treatment is crucial, so regular dental check-ups are just as important in old age as they are when you’re younger.

Your mouth can give you early warnings about oral cancer. Between dentist visits, watch out for these signs. If they don’t go away in two to three weeks, make an appointment at Topeka Oral Surgery: