Why Prompt Treatment for Tooth Decay and Gum Disease is Crucial
Untreated tooth decay and gum disease can lead to a cascade of more serious oral health issues. From discomfort to emergency treatment and even tooth loss, the consequences can be severe. As a professional, it is imperative to address these issues promptly to ensure prompt and effective care.
It's an infection
Millions of bacteria inhabit the mouth, with some being beneficial while others harmful. The latter group can cause damage to the soft and hard tissues of the oral cavity.
Like all living organisms, these bacteria require an energy source – simple carbohydrates from our diet – to generate energy. Additionally, they produce waste byproducts, the accumulation of which can result in the development of cavities in teeth due to acidic erosion of enamel surfaces. Certain bacteria even produce a toxic waste that can lead to bleeding gums and destruction of tooth-supporting bone, ultimately resulting in tooth loss. These infections demand special attention, with regular dental checkups, and cleanings to identify and target harmful bacteria in their early stages. Fluoride treatments and custom-tailored approaches help prevent erosion in those at high risk. While the link between oral infection and inflammation to critical health problems outside of the mouth are still being researched, it is clear that mouth bacteria can penetrate the bloodstream, carrying harmful bacteria to the blood vessels of the heart and brain. These bacteria can cause blockages, leading to life-threatening conditions like a heart attack or stroke.
Ongoing research also points to a connection between gum disease, arthritis, diabetes, and some cancers. Caring for our oral health can positively impact our overall well-being.
A few tips for maintaining a healthy mouth:
Maintaining good oral health requires consistent daily habits.
Brush and floss twice a day to remove bacterial plaque that can lead to decay, gum disease, and other health issues.
Consider using toothpicks, brushes, or even a Waterpik if you don’t like flossing. It’s important to brush for at least two minutes each time; an electric toothbrush with a built-in timer or setting a timer on your phone can help.
Rinse your toothbrush thoroughly as bacteria can linger and find their way back into your mouth. To minimize the risk of dental problems, keep sugary drinks, starchy foods, and desserts to a minimum. They provide fuel for bacteria, which can lead to decay.
Drink sugary liquids through a straw to help keep sugar from directly bathing the teeth before swallowing. Swishing with water after eating a meal can clean larger deposits of food from your teeth and promote hydration.
See your family dentist every six months to prevent any critical dental problems. Patients who incorporate preventive dentistry into their budget typically have fewer dental expenditures over time than those who wait for emergencies to develop.
Remember, getting cavities treated immediately is crucial since they rarely hurt until reaching a critical stage.