Oct. 31, 2024 | The human mouth is a swirling maze of bacteria. Usually these bacteria can be kept under control with good oral health care, such as brushing and flossing on a daily basis. Saliva is also a key defense against bacteria and viruses since it contains enzymes that destroy bacteria in a number of ways. But harmful bacteria can sometimes grow out of control and lead to periodontitis, a serious gum infection. When a person’s gums are healthy, bacteria in their mouth usually don’t enter the bloodstream. However, gum disease or invasive dental treatments like root canal surgery may provide bacteria a means of entry into the bloodstream. And medications that reduce saliva flow or disrupt the normal balance of bacteria in the mouth may lead to oral changes, making it easier for bacteria to enter the bloodstream. Some researchers believe that these bacteria and inflammation from the mouth are linked to other health problems in the rest of the body.

Oct. 31, 2024 | A crown is a tooth-shaped cover placed over a tooth that is badly damaged or decayed. Crowns may be placed for several reasons, but usually the tooth has been extensively damaged by decay or breakage and filling material can’t replace the missing tooth structure and make the tooth strong enough. A crown may hold together parts of a cracked tooth and can be used to hold a bridge in place. Crowns are also used for cosmetic purposes to cover misshapen or badly discolored teeth. Crowns can be prefabricated or made in a laboratory. Prefabricated crowns are made of plastic or stainless steel and can be used as a temporary restoration until a permanent crown is manufactured. In some cases, prefabricated crowns can be used as a permanent restoration. Crowns can be all metal, porcelain fused to metal, or all ceramic. Usually, crowns last at least seven years, but in many cases they can last up to 40 years or more.

Oct. 31, 2024 | Everyone knows that what you eat can affect your health. But did you know that what you eat can also affect your dental health? Changes begin in your mouth the minute you start to eat certain foods. Bacteria in your mouth make dental plaque become more acidic, and the acid starts the process that can lead to cavities. The longer food stays near the bacteria on the tooth, the more acids will be produced. So sticky carbohydrates, such as raisins, can do more acid damage but other foods that pack into crevices can also cause decay. People who sip soft drinks throughout the day provide a sugar source for the bacteria to produce acid almost constantly. And because acid damage is cumulative, decay is more likely. On the brighter side, some foods actually help to protect teeth from decay because they increase saliva flow and neutralize the acids produced by bacteria. For example, aged cheese eaten immediately after other food helps buffer the acid.

Oct. 31, 2024 | An abscess is a limited area of pus formed as a result of a bacterial infection. The body’s immune system reacts to the infection, and sends white blood cells to the area to try to get rid of the bacteria. Pus is a mixture of live and dead white blood cells, enzymes and parts of destroyed cells and tissues. When there is no way for pus to drain, it forms an abscess. Abscesses can form in almost every part of the body. In the mouth, they form in gum tissue or in the roots of teeth and in the surrounding areas of the tooth. An abscess will typically cause persistent pain. At first, the tooth will be sensitive to heat and pressure while chewing. Saving an abscessed tooth begins with draining the infection, which usually relieves pain and removes much of the infection. Root canal treatment may be necessary and should be started as soon as possible to remove diseased tissue. Once the abscess is drained, most symptoms go away immediately or within a few days.

Oct. 31, 2024 | A sealant is a plastic protective coating that is painted onto the chewing surfaces of the back teeth where most cavities form. These teeth, known as molars and premolars, have grooves and crevices in which food can easily become lodged. Some of the crevices are so deep that the bristles of a toothbrush can’t reach into them. These crevices provide the perfect environment for bacteria to grow and cause cavities. Sealants help to prevent this from happening. They cover the grooves and crevices so food cannot get into them. Sealants are most commonly applied to children’s teeth to help prevent cavities. A painless procedure that can be done during a routine dentist’s visit, applying sealants can be beneficial for children who have a lot of cavities or are at risk of dental disease. Sealants sometimes are used in adults who are at increased risk of developing cavities. Your dentist can recommend whether this procedure is appropriate for you.