Tooth Decay

Caries, or tooth decay, is a preventable disease. Caries can negatively impact your quality of life causing pain, difficulty eating/drinking, and/or infection that can fatal.  Caries occurs due to acids destroying the teeth’s enamel. Acids form when your teeth and gums are consistently exposed to large amounts of starches, sugars, and bacteria. To help prevent tooth decay from occurring it is important to practice proper oral care.

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Sensitive Teeth
Teeth sensitivity occurs when the interior of the tooth and nerve endings are exposed. Usually this occurs if the enamel on the teeth is worn down, there are microscopic cracks in the teeth, and the gums recede. Teeth expand and contract due to changes in temperature. Those with sensitive teeth experience pain or irritation when their teeth is exposed to hot or cold foods and beverages.

Gum Disease
Gum, or periodontal, disease can cause inflammation, tooth loss, and bone damage. Gum disease begins with a sticky film of bacteria called plaque. Gums may bleed during the early stages of gum disease (gingivitis) and progress to a more serious condition, periodontitis. At that stage, your child’s teeth may fall our or need to be extracted. A sign that your child may have gum disease is consistent bad breath or if they complain about a bad taste in their mouth. This is a preventable problem and can be avoided through daily brushing and flossing.

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Canker Sores
Canker sores, or apthous ulcers, are small sores that occur inside the mouth. They heal on their own in a week or two. These small ulcers have a white/gray base and are surrounded by a red border. They can make eating very uncomfortable. Avoid salty, spicy, acidic foods to decrease irritation and consult with our dentist regarding other possible treatment.