What is Tooth Decay?

Plaque is an insidious substance—a colorless, sticky film—that blankets your teeth and creates an environment in which bacteria erode tooth enamel, cause gum irritation, infection in inner structures such as pulp and the roots, and in extreme cases, tooth loss.

Some of the biggest culprits causing plaque are foods rich in sugar and carbohydrates, including soda beverages, some juices, candy and many kinds of pasta, breads and cereals.

Plaque also can attack fillings and other restorations in your mouth, which can lead to more costly treatment down the road.

Plaque is the main cause of tooth decay.  It can also cause your gums to become irritated, inflamed, and bleed. Over time, the plaque underneath your gums may cause periodontal disease, which can lead to bone loss and eventual tooth loss.

Inside your teeth, decay can gradually destroy the inner layer, or dentin.  It can also destroy the pulp, which contains blood vessels, nerves and other tissues, as well as the root. 

Periodontal disease is advanced gum disease. This serious condition occurs when the structures that support your teeth—the gums and bone—break down from the infection.  Pain, hypersensitivity and bleeding are some of the signs of periodontal disease.

Simple Preventative Measures

The two best defenses against tooth decay and gum disease are a healthy, well-balanced diet and good oral hygiene, including daily brushing with fluoride toothpaste, flossing and rinsing. Most public drinking water contains fluoride, but if you are unsure of your water supply, then use a good quality mouth rinse containing fluoride.

A good way to help your oral health between brushing is chewing sugarless gum; this stimulates your body's production of saliva, a powerful chemical that actually neutralizes plaque formation and rinses decay-causing food particles and debris from your mouth.

In some cases, our office can prescribe anti-cavity rinses or apply special anti-cavity varnishes or sealants to help fight decay.

Our Location

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Hours of Operation

Our Regular Schedule

Monday:

8:00 am-4:30 pm

Tuesday:

11:00 am-7:00 pm

Wednesday:

8:00 am-5:00 pm

Thursday:

7:00 am-3:30 pm

Friday:

7:00 am-12:00 pm

Saturday:

Closed

Sunday:

Closed

    Our family has been going to Giebenhain Dental for the past 25 years. The entire staff at Giebenhain Dental is extremely friendly and professional and they sure make you feel at home. Dr. Giebenhain is very knowledgeable and detail oriented. The office is very nice and comfortable and the view from the dental chair is very peaceful. I’ve had the opportunity of having both hygienists clean my teeth and they understand my sensitivity in a couple of areas and are very careful not to make me flinch. If you are looking for a dentist I would highly recommend Dr. Giebenhain and his wonderful staff.

    Debbie E - Brooklyn Park, MN

    My husband and I have been long-time patients and continue to love Giebenhain Dental even though we could go somewhere closer to our house. We love it because of the family atmosphere! Everyone is very professional, but also very personable and friendly. You always feel welcome from the minute you walk through the door.

    Lori & Marty F - Maple Grove, MN

    Giebenhain Dental is a great choice for working families. Accommodating office hours, helpful appointment reminders and efficient care are just some of the benefits of dental care at Giebenhain Dental. The staff is friendly and professional and I love the "up north" feel of the office reception area. I highly recommend Giebenhain Dental.

    Nathan Schultz - MN

    Our family of five has been going to Giebenhain Dental for nearly 15 years -- Dr. John is the only dentist our girls have ever had. We enjoy the personal yet professional atmosphere during every one of our visits. The entire staff makes our family feel welcome and it's clear they truly care about our health and happiness. We always leave with a smile -- a cleaner, healthier smile! We wouldn't go anywhere else!

    Kelli and Doug D. - Brooklyn Park, MN