The post The Importance of College Students Maintaining Good Dental Care appeared first on 101st Adult Dentistry | Clarksville TN Dentist.
]]>Neglecting dental care can lead to a variety of serious health problems that extend far beyond the mouth. Poor oral hygiene is linked to conditions like gum disease, which can contribute to more severe health complications, including heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory infections. By brushing and flossing daily and visiting a dentist regularly, students can reduce the risk of developing these conditions later in life.
College is a stressful time, and stress often manifests in oral health issues like teeth grinding (bruxism) or jaw clenching. These habits can cause headaches, jaw pain, and even damage to the teeth. Regular dental visits can help identify these problems early, and dentists can provide solutions like night guards or stress-management tips to prevent long-term damage.
When dental hygiene is neglected, small issues can quickly escalate into costly problems. Cavities, for instance, can be addressed with simple fillings if caught early. However, when left untreated, they can progress into more severe conditions requiring root canals, crowns, or even extractions—all of which come with a hefty price tag. Most college students live on tight budgets, so it’s essential to prevent expensive dental procedures through consistent care.
College is a time for making new connections, whether that’s with friends, professors, or potential employers. A healthy smile plays a significant role in boosting confidence and making a positive impression in social interactions. Conversely, issues like bad breath, stained teeth, or visible cavities can negatively impact a student’s self-esteem and social experiences. Regular brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings help maintain that bright, confident smile.
College is a transition into adulthood, and the habits formed during this time often shape future behavior. Establishing a solid dental care routine now sets the foundation for lifelong oral health. Students who prioritize dental hygiene are more likely to continue taking care of their teeth after graduation, reducing the likelihood of dental problems in the future.
Oral health is closely tied to overall well-being. Pain from untreated cavities or gum infections can affect sleep, concentration, and productivity, all of which are crucial for academic success. Additionally, poor nutrition—often common among college students due to fast food consumption or irregular eating habits—can further impact oral health. A balanced diet that includes foods rich in calcium and vitamins can support healthy teeth and gums.
For college students, dental care might not seem like a top priority amidst exams, social events, and newfound freedom. However, maintaining good oral hygiene is essential not only for a bright smile but for overall health and well-being. By taking care of their teeth now, students can avoid painful dental problems, save money, and lay the groundwork for a lifetime of healthy habits. A few minutes each day devoted to brushing, flossing, and regular dental checkups can make a world of difference. At 101st Adult Dentistry we understand college life can be hectic, and we make it easy to schedule your dental checkups. Call our office at (931) 906-8800.
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]]>The post What You Should Know About Periodontal Gum Disease appeared first on 101st Adult Dentistry | Clarksville TN Dentist.
]]>Periodontal disease is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects the gums and other supporting structures around the teeth. It typically begins with gingivitis, characterized by red, swollen gums that may bleed easily when brushing or flossing. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, where the gums pull away from the teeth, forming pockets that become infected. Over time, the infection can destroy the bone and connective tissues that hold teeth in place, leading to tooth loss. Periodontal disease is often caused by poor oral hygiene that allows plaque—a sticky film of bacteria—to build up on teeth. Other factors such as smoking, genetic predisposition, certain medications, and systemic diseases can also contribute to its development.
The symptoms of gum disease can vary depending on the severity of the condition. In the early stage, known as gingivitis, common symptoms include red, swollen, and tender gums that may bleed easily, especially during brushing or flossing. Persistent bad breath and a metallic taste in the mouth are also indicators of gingivitis. As gum disease progresses to periodontitis, symptoms become more pronounced and may include receding gums, deepening pockets between the teeth and gums, loose or shifting teeth, and changes in the way teeth fit together when biting. Some individuals may experience pus between the teeth and gums, as well as persistent bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth. If left untreated, periodontal disease can lead to irreversible damage to the gums and bone supporting the teeth, eventually resulting in tooth loss.
One of the most common misconceptions about periodontal disease is that bleeding gums are normal and will resolve on their own. Many people ignore bleeding gums, attributing them to brushing too hard or using a firm toothbrush. However, gum bleeding is often a sign of gingivitis, the early stage of periodontal disease. Gingivitis is characterized by inflammation of the gums caused by plaque buildup around the gumline. Without proper treatment, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, a more severe form of gum disease that damages the soft tissue and destroys the bone supporting the teeth.
Another common myth is that gum disease is a minor issue compared to other health conditions. In reality, periodontal disease is incredibly prevalent and can have significant consequences if left untreated. It is estimated to be more common than many well-known diseases such as cancer, diabetes, arthritis, and even heart disease.
Some people believe no cavities mean healthy gums. This simply isn’t true. The bacteria that cause cavities is a different type than that of periodontal disease. You can have perfectly healthy teeth and still have receding or bleeding gums at the same time.
Beyond its impact on oral health, periodontal disease has been linked to various systemic diseases and conditions:
These connections underscore the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene and seeking prompt treatment for gum disease. By addressing periodontal disease early, individuals can potentially reduce their risk of developing or exacerbating other serious health conditions.
Prevention is key when it comes to periodontal disease. This includes regular brushing and flossing to remove plaque, as well as professional dental cleanings and check-ups. Early signs of gum disease, such as bleeding gums, should never be ignored. Consulting a dentist at the first indication of gum problems can prevent the condition from progressing to a more severe stage.
Treatment options for gum disease depend on its severity but often include scaling and root planing (deep cleaning), antibiotic treatments, and in more advanced cases, surgical intervention to restore gum health and prevent tooth loss. People with periodontal disease require more frequent dental cleanings called periodontal maintenance appointments to help control the disease and prevent it from returning. Periodontal maintenance cleanings are done at more frequent intervals, normally somewhere between 3 to 4 times per year.
Periodontal disease is more than just a dental issue—it is a health concern with serious implications for your overall well-being. By recognizing the link between gum disease and systemic health conditions, individuals can take proactive steps to protect their oral and general health. Regular dental visits, diligent oral hygiene practices, and awareness of the signs of gum disease are crucial in maintaining a healthy smile and a healthy body.
If you suspect you may have gum disease or have noticed bleeding gums, don’t hesitate to schedule a dental appointment with our office. Early intervention can make a significant difference in preserving both your oral health and your overall quality of life.
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]]>The post Shining a Light on Oral Cancer: Why Awareness Matters appeared first on 101st Adult Dentistry | Clarksville TN Dentist.
]]>Let’s shed some light on key facts about oral cancer. Oral cancer encompasses cancers of the lips, tongue, gums, floor of the mouth, roof of the mouth, and inner lining of the cheeks. While tobacco and alcohol use remain significant risk factors, the rise in cases linked to the human papillomavirus (HPV) highlights the importance of understanding the evolving landscape of this disease. Additionally, factors such as poor oral hygiene, prolonged sun exposure, compromised immune system and family history can also increase one’s susceptibility to oral cancer.
One of the most critical aspects of oral cancer awareness is recognizing its signs and symptoms. These can include persistent mouth sores, red patches, white patches, pain or difficulty swallowing, a lump or thickening in the oral cavity, chronic hoarseness, or changes in the fit of dentures. It’s essential to note that these symptoms can often be subtle or easily dismissed and in some rare cases missed altogether because you may not have any pain or symptoms to alert you. This further emphasizes the significance of regular dental check-ups. Pay attention to these signs and symptoms:
Red Patches (Erythroplakia)
Red lesions or patches that appear in the soft tissue lining of your mouth and throat. Typically found on your tongue or the floor of your mouth. These lesions can not be scraped off.
White/Gray Patches (Leukoplakia)
Similar to Erythroplakia but white patches instead of red and are often found alongside each other.
Mouth sores
These can include mouth ulcers, canker sores and blisters. Typically, these sores are a concern if they persist for more than two weeks.
Difficulty Swallowing/Chewing
A common symptom of esophageal cancer is difficulty swallowing. If you are constantly choking on your food or have pressure when swallowing, this could be a sign there is a more serious issue.
Lumps
Most lumps or mouth growths due to trauma, hormones or infections are noncancerous. However, if a lump appears for more than several weeks, you should consult your dentist immediately.
During oral cancer screenings, dental professionals carefully examine the mouth, lips, tongue, gums, throat, and other oral tissues for any signs or symptoms of abnormalities that could indicate the presence of oral cancer. This examination typically involves a visual inspection of the oral cavity, as well as a physical examination where the dentist or hygienist may palpate the neck and throat to check for any lumps or enlarged lymph nodes. In some cases, additional diagnostic tools such as special lights or dyes may be used to aid in the detection of suspicious lesions. If any abnormalities are detected, further diagnostic tests or referrals to specialists may be recommended for a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate management. Oral cancer screenings are quick, painless, and can be performed during routine dental check-ups, making them an essential component of preventive dental care.
While it’s impossible to prevent oral cancer, you can significantly reduce your risk with a few changes including adopting healthy lifestyle habits and regular dental hygiene visits.
By incorporating these preventive measures into daily life, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of oral cancer and promote overall oral health and well-being.
At 101st Adult Dentistry, we treat a wide variety of oral health problems and provide peace of mind when it comes to oral cancer screenings. Early detection through regular screenings significantly improves treatment outcomes and survival rates, underscoring the importance of why we include oral cancer screenings in routine dental examinations. Request a dental appointment to receive your oral cancer screening.
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]]>The post What Are My Options After Dental Extraction? Bridges vs. Implants appeared first on 101st Adult Dentistry | Clarksville TN Dentist.
]]>Before diving into the specifics of bridges and implants, it’s important to understand why replacing a missing tooth is crucial. A gap in your teeth can lead to several issues, including:
Dental bridges are one of the traditional methods for replacing missing teeth. A bridge typically consists of two crowns on either side of the gap, anchored onto existing teeth, with a false tooth (or teeth) in between.
Dental implants involve the surgical placement of a titanium post into the jawbone, which serves as an artificial root. Once healed, a crown is attached to this post, effectively replacing the missing tooth.
When deciding between a dental bridge and an implant, consider the following factors:
While bridges offer a quicker and more cost-effective solution, implants provide longevity and help maintain jawbone health.
The best starting point in making your decision is a detailed consultation with one of our experienced dentists. We will assess your specific situation, taking into account factors like bone density, the health of adjacent teeth, and your overall oral health needs. Losing a tooth doesn’t mean you have to compromise on your smile or oral health. With options like dental bridges and implants, you can find a solution that works best for you. Contact 101st Adult Dentistry today to request a dental appointment.
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]]>The post National Dental Hygiene Month appeared first on 101st Adult Dentistry | Clarksville TN Dentist.
]]>The most obvious benefit of having good dental hygiene is the protective effect it has on your oral health. A clean mouth is a healthy mouth. People who have good dental hygiene don’t just have whiter teeth and fresher breath. They are also much less likely to suffer from common dental problems such as tooth decay, periodontal disease (gum disease), and even major health problems like heart disease, diabetes, and Alzheimer’s disease.
If you’re interested in improving your oral health and avoiding some of the most common complications of bad dental hygiene, we have tips and information in this blog.
Proper dental hygiene begins with two simple yet powerful tools: your toothbrush and dental floss.
Brushing: Regular brushing is fundamental for preventing tooth decay and gum disease. It helps remove food particles, plaque, and bacteria that can accumulate on the surface of your teeth. The American Dental Association recommends brushing your teeth at least twice daily with fluoride toothpaste.
Flossing: Flossing daily is equally important. It reaches areas between your teeth and on the gumline that your toothbrush can’t access. Neglecting to floss can lead to the buildup of plaque and bacteria, which may eventually result in gum disease and cavities.
Tooth decay, also known as dental caries, is a common oral health issue that occurs when the protective enamel of your teeth deteriorates. Understanding the causes of tooth decay is essential for taking preventative measures:
Poor Oral Hygiene: Inadequate brushing and flossing allow plaque and bacteria to thrive, producing acid. This acid erodes the enamel, paving the way for cavities.
Dietary Habits: Consumption of sugary and acidic foods and beverages contributes to tooth decay. Bacteria in the mouth feed on these substances, releasing acids that erode enamel over time.
Dry Mouth: Saliva is a natural defense against tooth decay as it helps neutralize acid and cleanse the mouth. A dry mouth, often caused by medications or certain medical conditions, increases the risk of decay.
Infrequent Dental Checkups: Regular dental checkups are crucial for early detection of cavities and preventive care. Avoiding these visits can lead to untreated dental issues, exacerbating the risk of decay.
Beyond the well-known health risks of smoking, such as lung cancer and heart disease, cigarettes and marijuana harm oral health. Here’s how these habits can harm your teeth and gums:
Dry Mouth: Marijuana can cause a dry mouth, which reduces saliva production. As mentioned earlier, a dry mouth can increase the risk of tooth decay.
Stains and Discoloration: Nicotine and cigarette tar cause stubborn stains on teeth. These stains can be challenging to remove, leading to unsightly discoloration.
Bad Breath: Smoking can result in chronic bad breath. The chemicals in tobacco products can leave an unpleasant odor in your mouth that lingers even after brushing and using mouthwash.
Gum Disease: Smoking impairs blood flow to the gums, weakening their ability to fight infections. This makes smokers more susceptible to gum disease, leading to tooth loss and other health problems.
Oral Cancer: Smoking is a significant risk factor for oral cancer, affecting the lips, tongue, cheeks, and throat. Early detection is crucial for successful treatment. Additionally, there is evidence linking marijuana use to an increased risk of oral cancer, though further research is needed to establish a definitive connection.
Periodontal disease, commonly known as gum disease, is a severe condition that affects the supporting structures of your teeth, including the gums and bone. Understanding the underlying causes of periodontal disease is crucial for prevention:
Plaque Buildup: Just like in the case of tooth decay, plaque is a primary culprit. When plaque hardens into tartar, it becomes difficult to remove through regular brushing and flossing, leading to gum inflammation.
Poor Nutrition: A diet lacking essential nutrients, particularly vitamin C, can weaken the gums and make them more susceptible to gum disease.
Genetics: Some individuals may have a genetic predisposition to gum disease. If you have a family history of periodontal disease, being extra vigilant about your oral health is crucial.
At 101st Adult Dentistry, we work hard to help patients protect their teeth, gums, and overall health through twice-yearly cleanings and examinations. Preventative care and early detection are key to maintaining good oral hygiene. Contact us today to request a dental appointment and learn how we can help.
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]]>The post Sudden Tooth Pain? Here’s What Might Be Causing It. appeared first on 101st Adult Dentistry | Clarksville TN Dentist.
]]>But in order to treat tooth pain, you and your dentist must first know what’s causing it. Teeth don’t hurt for no reason, and if you’re experiencing debilitating tooth pain, here are a few possible causes and treatments to give you some much-needed relief.
In its earliest forms, tooth decay is usually painless. But over time, the acid produced by oral bacteria can start to damage the gums and break down tooth enamel and expose the dentin, which is the next layer of the tooth below the enamel. If your dentin becomes exposed, you may experience greater sensitivity to hot and cold food and beverages.
Eventually, the bacteria and acid can even affect the pulp, which is the layer underneath the dentin. At this point, not only is the affected tooth in danger of being lost, but the exposed pulp can also cause jolts of pain when eating or drinking hot or cold food or beverages. The best way to treat tooth decay that has advanced enough to cause pain is by strengthening and sealing the damaged tooth with a filling.
Just as tooth decay can expose the sensitive inner layers of teeth like dentin and pulp, so too can cracks. Cracks can happen for a variety of reasons, including chewing or biting hard foods, accidents and injuries impacting the face and mouth, and age.
Some cracks are large and easily visible using a mirror, but others are hairline cracks that can’t be properly diagnosed without the help of a dentist and special tools, including X-rays and magnifying lenses. Two of the most popular treatments for a cracked tooth are bonding, which involves using a plastic resin to fill the crack and placing a crown on top of the cracked tooth to seal and protect it.
Crowns are highly effective at protecting damaged and sensitive teeth from further damage and pain, but these dental devices be damaged over time or under certain circumstances. Crowns are most commonly damaged when they’re exposed to extremely hot or cold food or beverages or when biting down on extremely hard food.
When a damaged crown causes tooth pain, it’s important to first check for underlying causes of pain. For example, the crown may be ill-fitting or improperly placed, or tooth decay may have started underneath the crown. After the underlying problem is addressed, the next step is to replace the damaged or broken crown with a new crown.
Like tooth decay, dental abscesses are caused by oral bacteria. Instead of causing the slow erosion of enamel and dentin, the bacteria instead cause localized pus-filled infections inside the teeth, in the gums, or in the jaw bone that holds teeth in place. A dental abscess can be extremely painful, especially when eating or putting pressure on the affected tooth.
Treatments for a dental abscess include removing the affected tooth, or performing a root canal. In severe cases, antibiotics may be prescribed to help reduce the risk of further infection, especially if the bacteria are widespread or may progress from local to systemic (throughout the body).
The pulp is the innermost tissue of the tooth, and when it becomes infected, the condition is called pulpitis. Bacteria can reach the pulp and cause infection through untreated tooth decay (cavity) and cracks. Both toothache and sensitivity are common symptoms of pulpitis, with pain being more noticeable when eating or drinking in cases that have progressed.
There are two types of pulpitis: reversible pulpitis and irreversible pulpitis. Reversible pulpitis can usually be treated by removing the decay or fixing the crack that has allowed the infection to reach the pulp. Irreversible pulpitis requires more intensive treatments, including a root canal and tooth extraction.
Sudden or chronic tooth pain is rarely benign. It’s almost always a symptom of an oral health problem, and if you wait too long to get diagnosed and treated, you run the risk of needing much more intensive treatment—or even the loss of your tooth.
Don’t wait if you’re experiencing sudden or chronic tooth pain. The dental team at 101st Adult Dentistry can successfully treat virtually all types of tooth pain, and we want to help you with this debilitating and excruciating problem. Contact us today to request a dental appointment.
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]]>The post Dry January and Your Oral Health appeared first on 101st Adult Dentistry | Clarksville TN Dentist.
]]>Millions of people around the world are participating in “Dry January,” an annual event where they abstain from alcohol during January (and beyond).
Cutting out alcohol has many numerous health benefits, ranging from weight loss and improved hydration to better sleep and no hangovers.
But did you know that reducing or eliminating alcohol intake can even improve your oral health?
You know that alcohol is bad for your liver. But it can also do a number on your mouth.
It Dehydrates Your Mouth
First, alcohol is dehydrating. It reduces fluids throughout your body, and that includes your mouth. You produce less saliva when you’re dehydrated after drinking, and that leads to a dry mouth.
When your mouth is dry, it’s easier for bacteria to develop. Over time, bacteria can develop into plaque, which coats teeth and can cause tooth decay (cavities) and even tooth loss. In addition, dry mouth is one of the top causes of bad breath, which can be highly embarrassing and even detrimental to your career!
It’s Sugary and Acidic
Second, alcohol is often both acidic and high in sugar. When your teeth are exposed to acid, whether it’s in food or drinks, it can wear down the enamel that protects them. Loss of enamel results in weak teeth that are more sensitive to extreme temperatures and more susceptible to tooth decay.
Sugary alcoholic drinks are the worst of the worst. Everyone knows sugar is enemy number one for oral health, and when it’s combined with something that’s both acidic and dehydrating, the results can be devastating for teeth.
It Stains Your Teeth
Finally, certain types of alcohol can harm the appearance of your teeth. Dark beer, red wine, and certain types of liquor and liqueurs can stain and discolor teeth the same way that coffee and cigarettes can.
It Can Increase the Risk of Oral Cancers
The Oral Cancer Foundation says that while oral cancer is most closely linked to tobacco usage, alcohol consumption can also play a role. Alcohol causes inflammation in the body, including in the mouth. Over time, frequent drinking can cause chronic inflammation of the lips, gums, tongue, and esophagus.
Inflammation is a major risk factor for cancer, especially when it goes untreated and worsens over many years.
If your Dry January turns into a “Dry Lifetime,” then you won’t have to worry about this next part. But whether you aren’t participating or plan on resuming your intake after January, here are a few ways to reduce the negative effects alcohol has on your oral health:
Reduce your consumption—When it comes to alcohol-related health problems, quantity and frequency matter. Simply reducing how much and how often you drink can make your mouth healthier and reduce your risk of developing many oral health problems.
Drink with a straw—Using a straw to drink alcohol, especially when it’s sugary or acidic, helps reduce the negative impact it has on teeth. That’s because liquid consumed through a straw mostly bypasses teeth, and that means less damage to tooth enamel and less sugar left behind that can turn into plaque.
Choose clear liquids—Drinking alcohol that’s light in color, whether it’s beer, wine, or liquor, will result in less staining of your teeth.
Avoid sugary drinks—Stay away from drinks that come pre-loaded with sugar and drinks that call for the addition of sugary mixers.
Drink water between drinks—Drinking water between drinks not only helps you moderate your intake, but it also keeps you hydrated and washes away the acid and sugar from your beverages.
Maintain a good oral health regime—Always brush twice per day and floss at least once per day, even after you’ve been drinking. In addition, continue seeing a dentist at least twice per year for checkups and cleanings.
At 101st Adult Dentistry, we work with patients with all levels of oral health. From fanatical brushers and flossers to people who haven’t seen a dentist in years, it’s our goal to ensure all of our patients get the care and attention they need to maximize their oral health.
Whether you need routine cleanings and checkups, treatment for gum disease, or even dental work such as crowns or bridges, you can count on our team’s experience and expertise to give you peace of mind and a healthy mouth.
Contact us today to request an appointment.
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]]>The post Dental Implants – Are They Worth Your Money? appeared first on 101st Adult Dentistry | Clarksville TN Dentist.
]]>At 101st Adult Dentistry, we often recommend dental implants to patients who want to replace damaged or missing teeth, and we’re also often asked if they’re worth the cost. We 100% believe they’re worth every penny, and here’s why.
Whether you lost a tooth due to an injury or an oral health problem, going without it can be distracting from an appearance and sensation perspective. But because dental implants permanently adhere to the jawbone, they function identically to natural teeth. After a short recovery period, you’ll forget you ever had a dental implant and will instead feel like your lost tooth has grown back and is 100% healthy again.
How do you care for a dental implant? The same way you care for a natural tooth. Brushing, flossing, and regular visits to the dentist are all you need to care for your implant. Your dentist will check your implant along with your natural teeth at every cleaning and checkup, and chances are, you’ll never need any specialized care or treatment for it.
People who are missing even a single tooth are at risk of jawbone loss. That’s because teeth and the jawbone work together to strengthen and support each other. Because dental implants are implanted directly into the jawbone, they fulfill a similar function as real teeth, preventing the jawbone from weakening and even being absorbed by the body.
Dental implants are strong! There are no dietary restrictions with them. Once your implant is fully healed, you’re free to resume your normal diet without worrying about your implant becoming loose, damaged, or needing an expensive repair or replacement.
Dental implants are designed to last for decades, or in many cases, for a lifetime. Because they’re permanently attached to the jawbone, there’s no risk of them becoming loose or falling out on their own. In addition, they’re made of highly resistant materials and resins, which means that they hold up against decades of eating, drinking, brushing, talking, and more.
Although the upfront cost of dental implants may be higher than other tooth replacement options, the long-term cost is often cheaper. That’s because once they’re implanted, they stay put and function exactly as intended with no specialized follow-ups or care needed. That means NO additional expenses for you outside of what you would normally spend on toothpaste, floss, and cleanings at your dentist.
You can’t put a price on happiness, comfort, and confidence, but that’s exactly what you get with a dental implant. Losing a tooth can be traumatic, and many tooth replacement options are only partially effective at restoring your lost confidence. Dental implants are so lifelike and so permanent that people who receive them quickly regain any lost confidence while also never dealing with the “foreign” sensation that other tooth replacement options often create.
Because having a heavily damaged, diseased, or missing tooth can be so detrimental to your oral health, most dental insurance plans partially or fully cover dental implants. That makes them affordable for more than 150 million Americans nationwide with dental insurance. And if you don’t have dental insurance, you can still afford them with our in-house membership financing plan.
Dental implants are just one of the life-changing dental and oral health services we offer. In addition to routine cleanings and checkups, we also offer a variety of dental services and procedures to help restore confidence and damaged smiles.
Contact 101st Adult Dentistry today to request a dental appointment.
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]]>The post What Are the Stages of Tooth Decay? appeared first on 101st Adult Dentistry | Clarksville TN Dentist.
]]>Tooth decay can set in quickly, and if it’s not addressed right away and kept at bay through proper oral hygiene, it can result in serious problems. Many people with late-stage tooth decay need to have their teeth surgically removed, and they often experienced other complications, including infection.
As dentists, we’re trained to diagnose and treat all five stages of tooth decay:
The first stage of tooth decay is caused when a tooth is exposed to significant amounts of acid produced by plaque bacteria. When teeth aren’t brushed and plaque is allowed to sit on teeth, they will slowly begin to lose the minerals that make up their enamel. Stage 1 tooth decay can be detected by looking for small white spots on teeth, which indicate a loss of minerals and enamel.
The second stage of tooth decay involves the further break down of tooth enamel. People who have developed white spots due to mineral loss will notice them turning a brownish color, which indicates even greater loss of minerals and enamel. Stage 2 of tooth decay puts people at much higher risk of developing cavities due to weakened enamel.
Beneath tooth enamel is a tissue called dentin. When enamel wears down, it exposes dentin to decay. Because dentin is softer than enamel, it’s more sensitive to the effects of acid produced by plaque bacteria, and that means it decays faster than enamel. When dentin begins to decay, it can cause sensitivity, as it contains tubes leading to the nerves of teeth.
When dentin begins to fully decay, it exposes pulp, which is the innermost part of a tooth. Nerves and blood vessels are located in the pulp. When decay begins to affect pulp, people can experience irritation and swelling, increased sensitivity, and pain. Early damage to pulp can be treated and reversed, but later stage damage may require root canals or tooth extraction.
When pulp becomes heavily damaged, bacteria can spread and multiply inside the tooth near blood vessels and nerves. This can result in significant inflammation and a pocket of pus near the bottom of the tooth called an abscess. Tooth abscesses result in severe pain that can spread into the jaw, and they require immediate treatment involving antibiotics and tooth extraction.
Early stages of tooth decay can be managed and reversed by improving oral hygiene and care. That includes regular brushing, flossing, and fluoride treatments. When teeth are severely damaged by plaque bacteria, more intensive treatments are required.
We use both fillings and crowns to reinforce and protect teeth that has been heavily damaged by bacteria that has affected their enamel, dentin, and even pulp. We know that many people dislike the look of fillings and crowns, and that’s we always use tooth-colored materials. Once installed, they’re unnoticeable but still provide the same level of reinforcement and protection our patients need.
Regular visits to the dentist are the best way to stop tooth decay in its tracks and begin to reverse it. And if you don’t have signs of tooth decay, regular cleanings can ensure it never starts.
We’re accepting new patients, and we’d love to get to know you and help you protect your oral health for years to come. Request a dental appointment today with our team of dental experts.
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]]>The post Medical History and Medications: Why They Are So Important appeared first on 101st Adult Dentistry | Clarksville TN Dentist.
]]>When you go to a new dentist, it’s extremely important to fill out the medical history forms as completely and accurately as possible, and to also be honest with your dentist if they ask you any questions about your medical status.
In addition, if anything about your health changes, including addition or removing medications, you should let your dentist know before any type of dental service, including a checkup, cleaning, or treatment.
Here’s why.
Hundreds of common prescription and over-the-counter medications have a common side effect: dry mouth. Experiencing dry mouth can be more than just an annoyance that has you sipping on water more frequently—it can also harm your oral health. When your mouth gets dry, you’re at greater risk of cavities, and you may even have trouble swallowing your food.
By letting your dentist know about all the medications you’re taking, he or she will know ahead of time that you may be experiencing dry mouth and other side effects that can make you more likely to experience tooth decay, oral infections, and other possible complications.
Another medication to always tell your dentist about is a blood thinner. Many health conditions require the usage of blood thinners, but they can make bleeding much more severe and difficult to stop. Certain types of dental procedures, including some routine cleanings, can result in bleeding.
Normally, bleeding stops quickly, but people who take blood thinners may require additional preparation and intervention to stop it. This also applies to people who have conditions that make it difficult for them to stop bleeding, including hemophilia.
When dentists come up with treatment plans for various oral health problems, they need to know how well and how quickly patients can be expected to heal. Conditions such as heart disease and diabetes can affect healing time, causing it to take longer and be less effective than in patients who don’t have those conditions. If you have a condition that interferes with healing, your dentist may need to consider a different treatment plan to accommodate it.
Some patients are allergic to latex, which is the material that most medical gloves are manufacturing with. Others are allergic to certain types of anesthetics, including Novocain, which is used for many procedures. Finally, some patients are even allergic to fluoride, which may be in toothpastes and rinses used during cleanings.
Dentists can’t possibly know what patients are allergic to unless they tell them, so be sure to fill out that section fully and completely before your first appointment or if you learn of a new allergy.
Some dental procedures require taking patients’ blood pressure and pulse. Many health conditions can impact both, so it’s important to let your dentist know ahead of time if you have a condition that could result in high or low blood pressure or heartrate.
Many people assume that herbal supplements, vitamins, and minerals purchased from health food stores and supermarkets are safe, harmless, and don’t need to be listed or pointed out to their dentists or doctors. However, that couldn’t be further from the truth. Many supplements can have similar effects on the body as FDA-approved medications, and you should always let your dentist know about any supplements you take.
When filling out your patient history form, you’ll see a section asking about previous or current drug usage. It’s important to be honest when filling out this section. Certain types of drugs, including tobacco and alcohol, can create a greater likelihood of experiencing oral health problems, and they can also enhance the risk of certain complications and the need to use additional anesthetic during procedures.
At 101st Adult Dentistry, we’re 100% non-judgmental about any and all health issues our patients have when they visit us. We ask for information solely to provide the best possible treatments with the least risk of side effects and complications.
If you’re ready to take control of your oral health, we’re here to help. Request an appointment today with our team of dental experts.
The post Medical History and Medications: Why They Are So Important appeared first on 101st Adult Dentistry | Clarksville TN Dentist.
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