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Total Dental Care
Modern dentistry is not just about teeth. There are four types of disease that must be monitored and treated for optimum health
Periodontal Disease - Gum disease is the number one cause of tooth loss in adults. It is basically a bacterial infestation of your gums which results in gradual loss of the bone that holds your teeth in. By the time it hurts, the damage is done. Warning signs include loose teeth, bleeding gums, and bad breath. It is treated with careful cleaning on a regular basis, and possibly surgery to correct the defects.
Oral Cancer - Although the use of alcohol and tabacco are the primary risk factors for oral cancers, various types of cancer can occur in any mouth. Early detection is important, and any abnormal lump or lesion should be checked by an oral surgeon.
Occlusal Disease - “Bad bite” can lead to worn, loose, or broken teeth, grinding or clenching, h eadaches, sore muscles, and jaw joint problems (TMJ disorders). Many people who suffer from muscle tension headaches can get relief by treating their bite. If you just fix the teeth and ignore the bad bite, the fillings and crowns won’t last as long or feel as comfortable as those in a proper bite relation.
Dental Caries - This is a bacterial infection of the teeth that results in holes in the teeth (cavities). It is the number one cause of tooth loss in children and young adults. Every time you eat sugar you feed the bacteria and they release acid, which dissolves tooth structure. It is always better to fix teeth as soon as possible, because cavities only get bigger.
Knowledge, proper home care, and a partnership with the hygienist and dentist will give you the best chance to keep your teeth for a lifetime.
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