Tooth decay is a progressive disease resulting from the interaction of bacteria that are naturally present on the teeth and sugars in the everyday diet. Bacteria metabolize these sugars producing a sticky acid that, if not removed, demineralize the surface of your tooth. The end result is a hole or cavity in your tooth. Dentists remove the decay and fill the tooth using a variety of filling material, restoring the tooth to a healthy state. When the decay is extensive a crown may be necessary. (A crown is sometimes described as a cap because it covers the tooth's surfaces giving it reinforced strength). Nerve damage can result from severe decay which leads to root canal treatment.
Avoiding unnecessary decay simply requires strict adherence to a dental health regimen: brushing at least twice a day and flossing daily, diet control, regular dental checkups, and fluoride treatments. However, even perfect habits are not enough to ward off decay in everyone. Practicing good dental care helps to prevent unhealthy teeth and costly treatment.
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a chronic bacterial infection that affects the gums and supporting bone. As with tooth decay prevention, maintaining a clean mouth to reduce the bacterial count helps to prevent this disease. Brushing a minimum of twice daily, flossing daily, eating a healthy diet and routine professional cleanings are all necessary to maintain the health of your gums. Risk factors that increase the severity of this infection include: tobacco use, diabetes and other health conditions, hormonal changes, certain medications and stress. Periodontal disease is the major cause of tooth loss in adults.
The grooves and depressions that form the chewing surfaces of the back teeth are extremely difficult (if not impossible) to clean of bacteria and food. As the bacteria reacts with the food stuck in these grooves cavities form. Recent studies indicate that 88 percent of the total cavities in American school-age children occur in these grooves.
Tooth sealants protect these susceptible areas by sealing the grooves and depressions, preventing bacteria and food particles from residing in these areas. Sealant material is a resin typically applied to the back teeth on the areas prone to cavities. It lasts for several years but needs to be checked during regular appointments.
Fluoride is a substance that helps teeth become stronger and resistant to decay. Drinking water treated with fluoride while teeth are forming and brushing with a fluoride toothpaste ensures significantly lower cavities. Dentists can evaluate the level of fluoride in a primary drinking water source and recommend fluoride supplements (usually in tablets or drops), if necessary. All children under the age of 16 years old and adults that are prone to decay receive an office fluoride treatment.
Sucking is a natural reflex that relaxes and comforts babies and toddlers. Children usually cease thumb sucking before the permanent front teeth are ready to erupt. Typically, children stop between the ages of 2 and 4 years. Thumb sucking that persists beyond the eruption of permanent teeth can cause improper growth of the mouth and misalignment of the teeth. Thumb sucking for many children is an important need in comforting & soothing themselves. That is why it is important to approach this habit gently. If you notice prolonged and/or vigorous thumb sucking behavior in your child, talk to your dentist.