Dentist discusses most common dental problems threatening Charleston SC residents’ oral health
It’s estimated 50 percent of American adults aged 30 and older have gum disease. Among younger Americans, tooth decay is the most common chronic childhood condition, 5 times more common than asthma. Taken together, cavities and gum disease are the most common dental conditions in the U.S.
These conditions can ultimately lead to tooth loss and it is believed that the inflammation caused by gum disease is associated with heart disease and other medical conditions, such as respiratory disease, osteoporosis, and poorly controlled diabetes. In fact, the American Academy of Periodontology notes researchers found a link between gum disease and increased risk of kidney, pancreatic, and blood cancers.
Preventing common conditions
Developing a strong relationship with your Charleston SC dentist, Dr. Andrew Greenberg is a foundation of oral health and ultimately overall health. Mouth Carolina Dentistry, PA can identify any conditions that may put you at greater risk for oral health problems. Dental conditions may be caught early, preventing those issues from snowballing into more serious (not to mention costly) problems.
Consider how, for example, gum disease starts as gingivitis. This inflammation is often characterized by redder than normal gums. Another hallmark of this disease is bleeding while brushing or flossing. If the disease goes untreated, it can progress to periodontitis. Ongoing inflammation results in pockets between the teeth, which may be measured by the staff at Mouth Carolina Dentistry, PA. The deeper the pocket, the more advanced the disease. These pockets can harbor bacteria, plaque, and tartar. As these destructive substances accumulate, your soft tissues as well as the hard tissues or bone supporting your teeth are threatened. Lose too much bone and you can lose your teeth.
The tooth itself may be directly threatened first by sugary foods and drinks. Some of the bacteria naturally contained in your mouth thrive off these sugars. This combination results in acids that ultimately erode the protective enamel covering your tooth. You may first experience sensitivity and later more painful, and serious problems as the bacteria and acids work their way to the deeper layers of the tooth and eventually to the center of the tooth. Ultimately, you may need a filling, dental crown, or another type of restoration to bring the tooth back to function and get you out of pain.
Aside from consistent and proper brushing and flossing, rethink your habits. Consider insidious sources of damaging sugars, such as fruit juice that contains very little actual fruit or highly acidic sports and energy drinks that may not be as healthy as you think. If you can’t brush after consuming these substances, be sure to rinse your mouth with water. Try not to sip soda, or other sugary or acidic drinks throughout the day, or at least without chasing these sugars with water.
Professional cleanings at Mouth Carolina Dentistry, PA can also remove some of the undesirable effects of a sweet tooth, such as tartar buildup. Call to schedule your first appointment or the latest with Dr. Greenberg and his team at (843)751 4262.
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Mouth Carolina Dentistry, PA - Dr. Andrew Greenberg
Dr. Andrew Greenberg completed his Bachelor’s Degree in New Orleans, Louisiana at Tulane University. He graduated from the Medical University of South Carolina College of Dental Medicine in 2009, where he portrayed excellent academic performance. He exercises his academic brilliance to the benefit of his patients every day. He grew up in a family with a dental background and showed interest in the field since his early days.
