MIDDLE AGE SMILES

Poor oral health, according to the surgeon general's findings, can promote the onset of cancer, kidney disease, diabetes and heart disease.*

     Congratulations!   We are the generation that cares about our health and continue to strive toward keeping ourselves healthy through eating better, exercising more, and regular checkups.  Yet, like so many, are you overlooking one thing that could affect your health?

Are you taking good care of your smile?

     Tooth Root Decay-One common problem for our generation is tooth root decay.  This is decay on the exposed roots of teeth along the gumline.  It is very common problem if you have gum disease.  As gums recede, the tooth root is exposed, Unlike the hardened enamel found elsewhere on the tooth, the root is extremely sensitive to attack by cavity causing acid. Also, cavities between the teeth are common due to the fact we don't floss on a regular basis.

     Sensitivity- As we get older gums recede further, revealing more roots and dramatically increasing chances of developing sensitivity.  Don't brush so hard, use a soft toothbrush and low abrasive toothpaste.

     Old Filling Decay-This is decay along the edges or margins of the fillings we had placed during our school age or high school days.  Over the years these fillings chip, fracture, wear and pull away.  These aged fillings are great hiding places for bacteria and food.  They need to be replaced before the decay begins which could lead to costlier procedures needing to be performed.

     Dry Mouth-This is when there is not enough saliva in your mouth to keep it moist and healthy.  It may be caused by certain medical conditions, aging or as a side effect of medication.  If left untreated dry mouth could lead to extensive tooth decay.  Try these recommendations and consider visiting your dentist if the problem persist for medication and/or fluoride treatments.

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     Bad Breath-Do you know where bad breath comes from?  It is can be more than what you eat.    It can be caused by poor oral hygiene, gum disease, dry mouth, medical disorder or tobacco use.  Visit your dentist to determine the cause and to learn more about individualized treatment.

     Gum Disease-It is the "silent"  bacterial destroyer of gum tissue and  bone leading to tooth loose.  The leading cause of tooth loss in our generation is not from decay but from gum disease!  Gum disease may be links with other systemic health problems like heart disease.  This is a great reason to have regular check ups to find out the health status of your gum tissue.

     Aging Smile-Teeth yellow with age caused by certain foods, tobacco or even medications.  Whitening is an easy at home procedure that can lighten and brighten your smile.

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     Natural Looking Smile-Dentistry has changed more in the last five years than in the last fifty years.  New products and techniques have made it possible to have the smile you always wanted through cosmetic dentistry.  Cosmetic dentistry offers you tooth colored fillings, braces,  porcelain crown, bonding, veneers, and dental implants.

      Oral Cancer-Oral cancer occurs more in people over age 45.  Regular visits to your dentist make it possible for him to diagnose and treat problems while they are still small and more affordable. 

Teeth are meant to last for a lifetime.

*Dental Economics, Feb 2001, pg 70