FAQs

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Many diseases of the teeth and surrounding tissues cannot be seen during a regular dental exam. An x-ray can reveal the following:

• Small areas of decay between the teeth
• Infections in the bone
• Periodontal (gum) disease
• Abscesses or cysts
• Developmental abnormalities
• Some types of tumors

Detecting and addressing dental problems early can save time, money, and often prevent unnecessary discomfort. There are numerous benefits to having dental radiographs taken. If you have any further questions or concerns, please discuss them with your dentist.

Periodontal disease is inflammation and infection of the gums and supporting bone structure, which, if untreated, can lead to permanent jaw bone loss and potential tooth loss. In advanced stages, periodontal disease causes gums to pull away from the bone and teeth.

Other signs of periodontal disease include:

• Bad breath
• Red or swollen gums
• Loose or shifting teeth
• Sensitive teeth
• Pus around the teeth
• Discomfort when chewing
• Tender gums
• Bleeding gums

Periodontal disease can be prevented and effectively treated by seeing your dentist and dental hygienist regularly and following their recommended care plans.

Flossing is essential to reduce the number of bacteria in your mouth. This bacteria resides in plaque, which can be removed by flossing. While brushing removes some bacteria, flossing targets the bacteria your toothbrush can’t reach. Brushing without flossing is like washing only half of your face—the other half remains dirty.

Ask your dentist to demonstrate the proper flossing technique. You’ll notice the difference at your next cleaning appointment.

Sensitivity toothpaste containing strontium chloride or potassium nitrate can be very effective in treating sensitive teeth. After a few weeks of use, you may notice a reduction in sensitivity. If brushing gently and using a desensitizing toothpaste does not provide relief, see your dentist. Special compounds can be applied in-office to the roots of your teeth to reduce, if not eliminate, sensitivity. High-fluoride home care products can also be recommended to help reduce tooth sensitivity.

Commercial whitening toothpastes vary significantly in their ability to whiten teeth. They work by removing surface stains with mild abrasives. However, toothpastes that effectively remove stains can also damage tooth enamel. These toothpastes use harsh abrasives, which, with repeated use, can erode tooth enamel and increase tooth sensitivity. If you want to try a whitening toothpaste, consult your dentist first.

Smokeless tobacco may be smokeless, but it isn’t harmless. Here are some potential hazards:

• Tooth abrasion from grit and sand in tobacco can scratch teeth and wear away enamel
• The irritation caused by chewing tobacco can result in gum recession and permanent gum damage
• Increased tooth decay from added sugars in smokeless tobacco
• Tooth discoloration and bad breath are common with long-term use
• Nicotine blood levels similar to those found in cigarettes
• A diminished sense of taste and smell, leading to unhealthy eating habits
• Cancer caused by all forms of smokeless tobacco

All tobacco users should see their dentist regularly.

Research shows that people with diabetes are more prone to gum disease. Poorly controlled blood glucose levels can increase the likelihood of developing gum disease and tooth loss. Like all infections, gum disease can cause blood sugar levels to rise, making diabetes harder to control. Regular dental checkups and following home care recommendations are essential for people with diabetes.

About half of pregnant women experience a condition called pregnancy gingivitis, which can cause swelling, bleeding, redness, or tenderness in the gum tissue. A more advanced oral health condition, periodontal disease, may affect your baby’s health. Studies show a link between periodontal disease and preterm, low birth-weight babies. Pregnant women with periodontal disease are seven times more likely to have a baby born too early or too small. The likely culprit is a labor-inducing chemical in oral bacteria called prostaglandin, found in high levels in women with severe periodontal disease.

Certain conditions require pre-medication with antibiotics before dental treatment to prevent adverse effects and infection from bacteria that enter the bloodstream during certain procedures.

Chemotherapy and radiation can cause various oral problems, including mouth sores, infections, dry mouth, bleeding gums, and general mouth discomfort. These issues can be harder to manage during treatment due to a compromised immune system. Special mouth rinses can be prescribed to help with discomfort. It’s important to see your dentist before treatment begins and to continue with recommended follow-up care.

Dentist visits include more than just checking teeth. While patients with dentures no longer worry about tooth decay, concerns about ill-fitting appliances or mouth sores may arise. Annual visits to the dentist are recommended. During these visits, an oral cancer screening and head and neck exam will be performed, and the fit or need for replacement of existing appliances will be evaluated. Regular visits can help prevent more complicated problems in the future.

People often respond incorrectly to bleeding gums. Bleeding gums usually indicate the onset of periodontal disease or gingivitis. However, people often stop brushing frequently and effectively because it may be uncomfortable or cause the gums to bleed again. When gums are inflamed, brushing often and effectively is essential. More importantly, you should see your dentist for a periodontal screening and recording to determine the level of disease and the best treatment.

Many people only visit the dentist when they have a problem, known as “crisis treatment,” as opposed to “preventative treatment.” While these patients may feel they are saving money, it often ends up costing much more in both dollars and time. Most dental problems do not show symptoms until they reach advanced stages. For example, tooth decay does not hurt until it gets close to the tooth’s nerve. By that time, root canal treatment followed by a post, buildup, and crown are often necessary. Your dentist can usually detect a cavity three to four years before it develops any symptoms. It is not uncommon to see a patient with a large cavity who has never felt a thing. This is why regular checkups are important, so why not schedule yours today?