Periodontal disease affects the periodontium (the supporting
structures of the teeth). The cause of this disease is multifactorial, but
the presence of bacteria in plaque certainly plays a major role. The
supporting periodontal structures begin to breakdown. This can mean that
part of the bone that supports the teeth or the ligaments that hold the
teeth securely in place are destroyed. This disease process is generally not
reversible and may require treatment from a dental professional specializing
in periodontal disease. Periodontal disease can develop as a result of poor
daily plaque control (e.g. brushing and flossing). However, not everyone
with poor brushing and flossing techniques will develop this condition. It
is wise to visit your dental hygienist or dentist regularly in order to
detect early stages of the disease and to prevent further
damage.
What is a
Cavity?
A cavity is the
destruction of the tooth enamel, dentin, cementum and may involve the tooth
pulp.
How does a Cavity
Form?
The formation of a
cavity is due to many factors. For example, the tooth itself plays a role
(how strong it is); the mouths ability to cleanse itself (your flow of
saliva); diet (frequency and selection of sugary foods); the bacteria in
your mouth (good or bad); and the length of time the tooth is under attack
by the bacteria in your mouth.
Heredity: may play a major role in
how susceptible you are to the formation of a cavity, for
example:
- tooth structure,
size and shape of the tooth may be passed down through generations. This
includes deep pits and grooves which are ideal "plaque traps", and
therefore, are susceptible to decay
- there may be a
higher risk of cavities forming if your parents also had a large number of
cavities
- teeth that are
malpositioned in the mouth, that are hard to access with your toothbrush
or floss may also provide an ideal breeding ground for the bacterial
dental plaque.
- the absence of
fluoride during tooth formation and following tooth eruption can increase
the incidence of cavities. fluoride promotes strong tooth development and
remineralization of the tooth
Saliva: has a protective function in the mouth, for
example:
- a good flow of
saliva washes away food and bacteria that sit on the teeth and gum
tissues
- salivary flow
helps to neutralize the acids produced by bacteria from plaque, thus a
good flow helps reduce the chances of a cavity
formation
Diet: a well balanced diet from each of the four major food groups
is essential for your oral health, as well as, your overall
health.
- avoid frequent
consumption of high sugar foods, especially sticky
foods
- the longer the
time the food stays on your teeth, the greater the chance of forming a
cavity. If you do have a sugary snack, it's best to brush your teeth soon
after
- select between
meal snacks that are low in sugar concentrations such as white milk, fresh
fruits, raw vegetables, dark breads and whole grain and enriched
cereals
- sugar free
candies, gum and other snacks are an option
Time: the actual amount of sugar eaten in one sitting is not as
important as when and how often you choose a sugar containing
food.
- the consumption
of high sugar foods is best if eaten with a regular meal. This will
confine the sugar exposure to one sitting. It's best to eat the whole
chocolate bar at once instead of at different periods throughout the
day
Bacteria: the mouth harbors many
types of bacteria that are considered to be normal in the human
mouth.
- bacteria, in a
healthy mouth tends to live in balance, but for reasons yet to be truly
identified, that balance can be tilted and oral disease may
result
Fluoride:
fluoride provides many benefits. It is found in
many products such as toothpaste, mouthrinse, fluoridated drinking water and
periodic topical fluoride treatments applied by your dental
professional.
- it aids in the
development of sound enamel
- it helps reduce
enamel solubility and increases enamel resistance to acid
attack
- it prevents
demineralization (the white spot phase of the beginning stages of a
cavity)
- it enhances
remineralization of beginning stages of a cavity. Fluoride may arrest
further development of a cavity by depositing the fluoride mineral called
fluoroapatite
Fluoride used in
addition to daily brushing and flossing helps to reduce the chances of a
cavity.
Signs of a Cavity
Formation
The first sign of a
cavity forming may be a white spot, which in time may turn
brown.
If it is a white
spot, low concentrations of fluoride applied frequently can arrest further
development.
White
spot phase
If the white spot
phase progresses, further breakdown of enamel will occur. At this point, a
visit to your dental professional is necessary. The cavity may be restored
with a filling.
Breakdown
of enamel between the teeth
Good Habits to Help
Prevent Cavities
- regular visits
with your dental professional on an appointment schedule that he/she
recommends based on your own needs. Regular visits will ensure you have
the benefits of preventive care and early diagnosis, as well as, treatment
for any dental problems. Guidance about home dental care can also be
provided to avoid future problems
- diet plays an
important role. Minimize the frequency of sugary foods, thus reducing the
amount of acid produced. Select snacks that are less cavity causing, such
as fresh fruit, plain yogurt and raw vegetables
- the use of
fluoride will help decrease the risk of cavity
formation
- good plaque
control. Maintain a strict and regular home care routine to minimize
plaque growth
- it is
recommended that you consult your dental professional before using any
commercial products. You want to make a selection based on the
effectiveness of the product and your own personal
needs.
Is toothache, a gum problem or a jaw problem?
If you have a tooth recently getting sensitive
it is often the sign of a cavity. If the tooth is throbbing
it could be an infection.
What do you do if you have a broken tooth?
If your tooth is broken due to trauma
call your dentist immediately.
Clean the area with warm water and
place cold compresses on the area.
If upper and lower back teeth are hurting at the same
time?
If it is persistant through out the day and it is getting worse,
it could be due to an infection such as,
infected gums and visdom teeth.
Is whitening safe?
Clinical research has shown that whitening
under the supervison of a dentist is safe.
What is referred pain?
Referred pain is pain appearing at a location
other than it's source. Such as toothaches due to
sinus problems, jaw aches due to gum disease.
What is TMJ?
TMJ is Temporo-Mandibular Joint which is the joint that
attaches the lower jaw to the skull.
This joint might cause problems due to grinding,
clenching or other previous trauma.
