People of all ages need dental care. Most people visit a dentist for check-ups and cleanings at least once a year to ensure they have healthy teeth. However, some people don’t go to the dentist as often because preventive dental care can be expensive and time-consuming. If you’re one of those who rarely go to the dentist Meadowbank, read on to find out what problems could arise if you ignore your teeth too long.
What are the common causes of tooth decay?
Tooth decay, also called cavities or caries, occurs when plaque builds up on the teeth and eats away at their enamel layer. The bacteria in plaque produce acids that damage the enamel and cause tooth decay. The most common causes of tooth decay are plaque and tartar build-up, poor dental hygiene, and too much sugar in your diet.
However, other factors can raise your risk for tooth decay as well:
– Not getting enough fluoride
– Medical conditions like diabetes or anaemia
– Previous dental work (like fillings or root canals) that leave open pathways to the centre of the tooth
What does it mean if you’re at higher risk for cavities?
If you’re at a greater risk for developing cavities than others, it means that you should take extra care of your teeth – especially regarding what you eat and how often you visit the dentist. Some people have a dry mouth, which traps bacteria and food particles inside the mouth. This condition can cause tooth decay too. It’s because of this that medical experts recommend chewing sugarless gum or rinsing your mouth with water after eating anything to reduce plaque build-up on your teeth. Also, you can prefer dentist Bishop Stortford which makes your dental treatment successful.
Who are some groups of people who are at higher risk for cavities?
- People with diabetes or low-iron levels
- People taking medications that decrease saliva production (like antihistamines)
- People who have had root canals done on their teeth
- People who don’t visit the dentist every six months for a check-up
What problems can tooth decay lead to?
Tooth decay leads to several problems if left untreated, including toothaches, cavities that have to be filled or removed at the dentist, and gum disease. Without the proper treatment, these problems can lead to even more dangerous health issues like heart disease, stroke, respiratory infections, and diabetes.
What is gum disease?
This is an infection of the gums resulting from plaque build-up around your teeth. There are two types of gum disease: gingivitis and periodontitis. Gingivitis means that your gums are swollen and red because they’re inflamed. Your dentist may prescribe antibiotics if you have this condition. Periodontitis is a severe gum disease and happens when bacteria has gotten into the bone surrounding your teeth. It can lead to tooth loss if left untreated.
What are some warning signs of gum disease?
- Pain or tenderness when you bite down
- Bleeding gums (while or after brushing or flossing)
- Diminished ability to chew hard foods like carrots and apples
- Gums that have drawn away from your teeth
Why do I need a dentist even if I brush my teeth every day?
Even if you look after your teeth well, it’s still essential to visit a dentist regularly for a routine check-up. Your dentist will check your mouth for red, warm, swollen spots that suggest an infection has gotten out of control. They will also check for cavities or damage to your tooth enamel. If any issues are found, they can provide you with the proper treatment before problems become more serious.
Why do you need a dentist even if you brush your teeth every day? How does this relate to overall health?
Brushing and flossing only go so far in keeping your mouth healthy. Without visiting the dentist regularly, you may miss warning signs of other conditions that affect your overall health. Therefore, you may schedule an appointment at least once a year for a thorough oral examination by your dentist. This way, you’ll know that you’re taking care of both your teeth and gums – and protecting yourself from future dental health problems as well.