Teeth, Gums, & Tongue Conditions

There are many conditions that can attack the gums, teeth, and tongue. These are serious problems that can in their most severe forms require surgery or other medical intervention. Medical care can prevent most of these conditions from ever even occurring. This is why preventative care is so vital to preventing future oral health problems. Smoking as well as the use of other tobacco products can cause a host of oral health problems including tooth decay and gum disease. Tooth decay is one of the most common dental problems. Generally, the discovery of tooth decay comes when a patient realizes they have a cavity during a routine checkup, or when a patient visits a dentist with a toothache. When caught early minor tooth decay can be quite a treatable condition, however; more advanced tooth decay can present serious problems and complications. Cavities are the first stage of tooth decay, which occurs when a buildup of plaque and tartar begin to chew away at the structure of the tooth, generally leaving a hallow in the tooth. Cavities chew through the tooth enamel and erode part of the physical tooth itself. This is generally caused by sugars and starches sitting on the teeth for too long after one has consumed foods such as breads, cereals, milks, sodas, fruits, cakes, or candies. Most cavities require that the opened cavity be thoroughly cleaned before its filled to help keep from further decay, and to help smooth the tooth out to restore its normal, proper functions of chewing to their full capacity. Wisdom Teeth & Conditions: Wisdom teeth are also another thing that often need to be removed as they grow in at odd angles, or impact the health of other teeth in the individual’s mouth. Some people are born with wisdom teeth, while others are not. It is vital, however, to have a dentist evaluate a patient to see if they have wisdom teeth, and if they do ensure the grow in appropriately or have them removed so the health of the individual’s other teeth is not impacted. When wisdom teeth are pulled, it is vital to ensure that dental precautions are taken to avoid dry socket which is an exceptionally painful condition where the socket that the tooth was in can become infected. It’s also important to keep the gums around the tooth clean to avoid periodontitis, which is an infection of the gums around the area where the tooth was pulled. Gum Problems: Gum problems are manifested through red, swollen, or bleeding gum-lines. These are common problems for many people, especially when they fail to floss properly every day. These can result in further complications including gingivitis which is manifested through swollen, red, sensitive gums. If gingivitis is left untreated it can result in periodontal diseases which is where plaque has hardened on the gum-line to the point it requires surgical procedures to help loosen and remove the plaque. This can also result in corroding on the roots of the teeth if the plaque penetrates deep enough. Other issues can include receding gum-lines which can lead to lose teeth and exposed nerves, and in the worst cases may require tooth removal if too much of the tooth is exposed. Oftentimes, if receding gum-lines get bad enough teeth will fall out, especially in those who can’t afford to go to, or don’t bother with going to the dentist. Good dental hygiene including regular flossing and brushing as well as rinsing with water after meals containing highly corrosive foods can help keep these problems at bay. Regular dental visits help catch problems as they may arise early before extreme measure need to be taken. Tongue Problems: The tongue can also have hygiene issues if not properly cared for. Tongue problems can include discoloration and soreness as well as Black Hairy Tongue, Fissure Tongue, or Geographic Tongue. Proper dental care, brushing, and flossing can help avoid these problems as well as most other oral conditions. Tongue conditions can be exceptionally annoying as the tongue is used to do everything from chewing or eating to speaking. If you experience any abnormalities concerning your tongue contact your healthcare professional immediately for preventative care before the condition worsens. If you have any questions regarding this article please feel free to contact us and/or call us 909-465-1016. The Ramona Dentistry Team “Where Family Comes First”