Questions...


Question: What causes tooth decay?

Tooth decay is a destruction of the tooth enamel. It occurs when foods containing carbohydrates (sugars and starches) such as milk, pop, raisins, cakes or candy are frequently left on the teeth. Bacteria that live in the mouth thrive on these foods, producing acids as a result. Over a period of time, these acids destroy tooth enamel, resulting in tooth decay.


Preventing Tooth decay:

You can help prevent tooth decay by following these tips:

 

  • Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.

  • Clean between your teeth daily with floss or interdental cleaner.

  • Eat nutritious and balanced meals and limit snacking.

  • Check with your dentist about use of supplemental fluoride, which strengthens your teeth, and about use of dental

  • Sealants (a plastic protective coating) applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth to protect them from decay.

  • Visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and oral examination.

 

Question: How are problems in my mouth linked to problems in the rest of my body?

Research has found that the health of your mouth can be a sign of your body’s overall health. Diseases such as diabetes, osteoporosis, HIV, cardiovascular disease and eating disorders can cause, and are related to, oral-health problems.


Diabetes increases your risk of gum disease, cavities, tooth loss, dry mouth and oral infections. Also, poor oral health can make diabetes more difficult to control.  


Often, the first signs of osteoporosis show up in your teeth. Your dentist may be able to spot bone loss and weakening through regular dental exams.


Oral problems are very common if you have HIV/AIDS. Symptoms include ulcers, dry mouth and related painful mucosal lesions. In some cases, one of the first signs of HIV/AIDS may be severe gum infection.


Some studies show that certain types of cardiovascular disease are linked to oral health. These include heart disease, clogged arteries and stroke.


Be sure to practice good oral health and hygiene as it affects more than just your mouth – it impacts your entire body.


Question:  What are the most common oral health problems?

Dental cavities and gum disease are the most common oral health problems.  Cavities are caused by bacteria that produce an acid and attack the enamel on our teeth – eventually leading to decay and wear.  You can prevent cavities by   brushing and flossing regularly and avoiding sugary foods and snacks.


Gum disease (gingivitis) is an inflammation and infection of the gums. About 75 percent of Americans have gum disease and don’t even know it. It’s a progressive disease and failure to treat it can result in acute illness and loss of teeth. Usually, gingivitis can be treated with daily brushing and flossing and regular cleanings at the dentist’s office. This form of gum disease does not lead to loss of bone or tissue around the teeth. If it is not treated, it can advance to periodontitis, an infection in the gum and bones.

 

Question:  What is dry mouth and what can I do about it?

Dry Mouth, known as Xerostomia, occurs when the salivary glands are damaged and/or not functioning properly. Insufficient saliva will manifest various symptoms including a burning sensation and difficulty in speaking, swallowing, chewing, and loss of taste. Persistent dry mouth can lead to cavities, fungal infections (Thrush), increased bacterial growth, sores and soft tissue inflammation (Gingivitis). It is important to identify the underlying cause and to apply a sustainable and effective daily oral relief protocol.

The cause of insufficient saliva production can come from one or more sources. What's important to understand is that Dry Mouth is typically NOT RECOGNIZED until it has advanced, that most people fail to seek timely consultation and treatment by a medical or dental professional, that the disease is PROGRESSIVE and that it generally leads to additional serious oral complications over time.

 

Factors Contributing to Dry Mouth:

  • Combinative Use of Prescriptive Medications

  • Aging

  • Cancer Therapy

  • Dentures

  • Nerve Damage

  • Poor Oral Hygiene

  • Tobacco Use

  • Nutritional Deficiencies

  • Stress

  • Substance Abuse

  • Occupational Hazards

  • Environmental Hazards

 

Health Conditions Contributing to Dry Mouth:

  • Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

  • High Blood Pressure - Hypertension

  • Sjögren's Syndrome and Arthritis

  • Diabetes

  • Asthma

  • HIV/AIDS

  • Anxiety/Depression

  • Chronic Pain

  • Cancer

  • Obesity

  • Connective Tissue Disorders

  • Alzheimer's

  • MS - Parkinson's

  • Fibromyalgia

  • Post Traumatic Stress

  • Pregnancy


MEDICAL ALERT - Prescription Medications Cause Dry Mouth

 

Saliva is a key component of the bodies immune system and any medication that is prescribed to treat a host of medical conditions should be considered a possible cause of dry mouth. Patients should read all drug information provided with prescription medicines and consult with their healthcare provider if symptoms of dry mouth occur.

Hundreds of medications, including some over-the-counter drugs, produce dry mouth as a negative side effect. Simply taking these medications increases your susceptibility to dry mouth, however, research suggests other factors and conditions can lead to Dry Mouth.

 

Drugs That Can Cause Xerostomia

  • Antidepressants

  • Antibiotics

  • Corticosteroids

  • Antihistamines

  • Analgesics (Painkillers)

  • Asthma Inhalers

  • Statins

  • Diuretics

Other Considerations

  • Avoid alcohol-based mouthwashes, as these will make your mouth drier.

  • Avoid candy, gum, and soda unless they are sugar-free.

  • Avoid spicy or acidic foods, toothpicks, tobacco products, and alcohol.

  • Keep the appointment schedule recommended by your doctor and/or dental professional.

  • Notify your doctor and/or dental professional about any changes in your oral health.


Remember, Dry Mouth is a serious oral condition that causes inevitable downstream damage to the teeth and the soft tissue in the mouth. It can also negatively impact the body's ability to deal with other serious health issues and significantly impact quality of life.

 

Question:  How often should I get a dental check up?

Most people should visit their dentist for a regular cleaning and check up every six months. However, if you have special conditions that put you at greater risk for oral diseases you may need to see your dentist more than twice a year. Talk to your doctor about how often is best for you.

 

Question: How often should I change my toothbrush?

You should change your toothbrush every three months or sooner if the bristles become worn and frayed. If you have been sick with a cold or other bacterial infection, you should replace your toothbrush immediately after you get better.


Question:  What are some of the symptoms of oral cancer?

More than 34,000 Americans are diagnosed with oral cancer each year. It often starts as a tiny, unnoticed white or red spot or sore in the mouth and can affect any area of the oral cavity including the lips, gum tissue, cheek lining, tongue and palate.


Some symptoms of oral cancer include a sore that bleeds easily or does not heal; a color change of the oral tissues; a lump, thickening, rough spot or small eroded area; pain, tenderness or numbness anywhere in the mouth or lips; difficulty chewing, swallowing, speaking or moving the jaw or tongue; and a change in the way your teeth fit together.


Early detection is essential in effectively treating oral cancer. Regular dental check ups include an oral cancer screening, so it is important that you visit your dentist at least twice a year.  If left untreated, oral cancer can lead to permanent damage and death.

 

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