Stages of Gum Disease

If you want to keep your permanent teeth for a lifetime, then you need to listen when Dr. Robert B. Ruyak, DMD tells you to brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss at least once a day. Gum disease is an inflammation of the gums that can progress to affect the bone that surrounds and supports your teeth and there are three that you need to be aware of. You should always schedule professional cleanings and oral exams twice a year to avoid them.

• Gingivitis – This is the earliest stage of gum disease, an inflammation of the gums caused by plaque buildup at the gum line. If daily brushing and flossing do not remove the plaque, it produces toxins that can irritate the gum tissue, causing gingivitis. This is when you’ll notice blood in the sink after you complete your brushing routine. However, at this early stage, damage can be reversed, since the bone and connective tissue that hold the teeth in place are not yet affected.


• Periodontitis – This is the second stage of gum disease. By this point, the supporting bone and fibers that hold your teeth in place are irreversibly damaged. Your gums may even begin to form a pocket below the gum line, which traps food and plaque.


• Advanced Periodontitis – This is the final stage of gum disease, and the fibers and bone supporting your teeth are officially destroyed. In this case, your teeth may begin to shift or loosen and your bite may also be affected. If aggressive treatment can’t save them, the teeth will need to be extracted.

If you notice blood in the sink when you brush your teeth, please give us a call to discuss your treatment options. To learn about the services we provide at our practice, visit www.drrobertruyak.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Robert B. Ruyak, DMD in Bethlehem, PA, call 610-861-0777.

Show Off Your Charming Smile!

Taking the perfect selfie begins with a healthy smile and Dr. Robert B. Ruyak, DMD can help improve yours. If you’re shy about showing your grin in photos due to your teeth being a little lackluster, Dr. Ruyak suggests visiting our office for a dental checkup so that we can brighten up those pearly whites and assure that they are healthy. In the meantime, we thought we’d share some tips on how to rock the smile you already have!

• Be natural – when it’s picture time, smile gently. That way, your face looks relaxed. Your mouth opens slightly, and your lower lip matches the curve of your upper teeth.


• Check your teeth and gums – getting your smile camera-ready sometimes calls for a little behind the scenes prep work. If your pearly whites have yellowed with age, try an over-the-counter whitening product or pay us a visit! Also, don’t forget about taking care of your gums. They play a critical role in your nice smile. So keep them in good shape by brushing, flossing, and rinsing with a mouthwash every day.


• Practice – your perfect smile may not happen overnight, but if you have a big photo event like a wedding or a graduation coming up, it doesn’t hurt to try out your grin in front of the mirror!

If you wish to enhance the appearance of your smile, please give us a call to discuss your treatment options. To learn about the services we provide at our practice, visit www.drrobertruyak.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Robert B. Ruyak, DMD in Bethlehem, PA, call 610-861-0777.

Nitrous Oxide Sedation

Does thinking about future dental appointments fill you with anxiety? If so, Dr. Robert B. Ruyak, DMD can calm your nerves with nitrous oxide during your next visit. Commonly known as “laughing gas,” this type of sedation is given to make treatments more comfortable and to help put your mind and body at ease. Nitrous oxide is safe and effective and is not intended to put you to sleep. Therefore, you will be able to hear and respond to any requests or directions Dr. Ruyak might have for you.

When administering nitrous oxide, Dr. Ruyak will ask you to breathe normally through your nose, and within a few short minutes, you will begin to feel the effects. You may feel light-headed, or experience a tingling sensation in your arms and legs. Ultimately, you should feel calm and comfortable. Since the effects of nitrous oxide wear off after your procedure, you will be able to safely drive yourself home.

If you have questions about sedation dentistry, please give us a call. To learn about the services we provide at our practice, visit www.drrobertruyak.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Robert B. Ruyak, DMD in Bethlehem, PA, call 610-861-0777.