Preventive Dentistry

Did you know that the health of your teeth and gums is connected to the health of the rest of your organs? When someone presents with severe oral health problems all of a sudden, it can be a sign that something else is going on, such as an underlying illness or medical condition.

‍

Patients who have been diagnosed with gum disease are twice as likely to die from a heart attack and 3 times as likely to have a stroke. This connection between oral health and overall health is a serious one and one that should not be taken for granted. Teeth and gums that are in poor condition can make it more of a struggle to chew your food, speak clearly, and can also cause social problems in children.

‍

Tooth decay and gum disease are two of the most common oral health conditions found in dental patients. They are often caused by improper oral hygiene such as inadequate brushing and flossing. This leads to food particles being left behind in the mouth which bacterial plaque feeds off of and transforms into acids that attack the tooth’s enamel. 

‍

When a patient has a buildup of plaque in the mouth that is left untreated, it will turn into tartar. Plaque and tartar need to be professionally removed through scaling and planing or the condition of your teeth and gums will only worsen. Studies have shown that there is a link between tooth decay, gum disease, and other medical conditions, such as:

‍

• Diabetes
• Obesity
• Dementia
• Heart disease
• Birth complications
• Osteoporosis
• Pneumonia
• Stroke
• Respiratory disease

Gum disease occurs when bacteria in the mouth is left untreated and leads to an infection in the gums. Gingivitis is the first stage before the infection turns into gum disease. Because this is a very early stage and symptoms are mild, it’s easy for patients to miss the warning signs or notice that anything is wrong. 

However, early detection is crucial, because gum disease can be stopped in its tracks with a traditional dental cleaning in the earliest stages. The warning signs of gum disease include:

• Swollen, puffy gums
• Darkened or red gums
• Foul breath/bad taste in the mouth
• Receding gums
• Tenderness in the gums
• Bleeding gums

If gingivitis is left untreated, it will develop into irreversible gum disease. During stage two, the jaw bone begins to deteriorate, leading to bone loss. The warning signs of gum disease include severely receded gums, pockets forming in the gums that trap bacteria, loose or shifting teeth, changes in your bite, and as the disease progresses, tooth loss.

Preventive dentistry is so important because it is the most cost-effective and time-sensitive way to prevent serious oral health problems which impact your overall health. Neglecting to attend regular dental cleanings and checkups increases your risk of having undetected tooth decay or gum disease. 

When left untreated, an infection can spread into the bloodstream and quickly become a serious problem. When problems with your teeth are left untreated, the problem will only become more severe, requiring more complex and expensive dental treatments later on. 

We may even be unable to salvage the tooth if it has become severely decayed and it will need to be extracted. Tooth loss is something that should be avoided at all costs. A lost tooth will need to be replaced with dentures, dental implants, or bridges to prevent the teeth from shifting. 

However, the only tooth replacements that will prevent further bone loss and changes in your facial structure are dental implants. Engaging in early detection and preventative treatments will save you time, money, and possibly teeth. 

Don’t neglect your oral health - it can have serious consequences. Schedule your next dental appointment with Dr. Nancy William at Restore Health Dentistry by contacting us at (562) 936-0071 or book online.