Halloween is such a fun time of year for adults and kids. Let’s make sure that fun doesn’t turn into cavities and gum disease. Let your kids enjoy the fun and candy. You can enjoy it too! However, it is up to you to educate your kids on how to take care of their teeth. As your family dentist in Roseville, it is important to us that you know all about cavities and gum disease to prevent them.
WHAT CAUSES CAVITIES?
Candy alone will not cause cavities. So what makes a cavity? Bacteria in the mouth feed on the sugar. This creates acid. It is the acid that eats away at the tooth and causes cavities. We have a great cartoon in our Halloween article from last year. You can use it to educate children on cavities. Here is the link: https://smilewhitedental.org/tips-for-halloween/
WHAT IS GUM DISEASE?
When a dentist or hygienist examines teeth they use a periodontal probe. They call out numbers as they measure the gaps between your teeth and their surrounding gums. Healthy gums usually measure between 1-3 mm. However, gums that measure from 4 mm or higher have various stages of disease. For example, you may have some 2 and 3’s on your exam. But if you have any 4’s you have some gum disease that needs immediate attention.
STAGES OF GUM DISEASE
Gingivitis
Gingivitis is the mildest form of gum disease. It causes the gums to become red, swollen, and bleed easily. There is usually little or no discomfort at this stage. Gingivitis is often caused by inadequate oral hygiene.
Periodontal Disease
Untreated gingivitis can advance to periodontal disease. Consequently the gum tissue pulls away from the teeth. Bacteria can then more easily destroy the underlying bone that supports the teeth. Eventually, teeth can become loose and may have to be removed. Advanced periodontis may require dental surgery. Gingivitis is reversible with professional treatment and good oral home care. However, periodontal disease can require surgery. Therefore it is important we catch gum disease early.
Diseases in your body
Research today is leading to indicate that other parts of the body can become affected through the bloodstream. Gum disease is now being linked to heart disease, certain cancers, Alzheimer’s disease and other circulatory system issues.
In summary, the health of the teeth and gums is important to everyone’s overall health. Firstly, healthy teeth help with chewing and speaking. They also help with speech and having a pleasant smile. Secondly, healthy gums are needed to support the teeth and protect the jaw bones. Therefore, if you or anyone in your family have any numbers on a dental exam of 4 or above it is vital you work with your dentist to start treatment immediately.
YOUR HEALTH IS IMPORTANT TO US
At Smile White Dental, your family’s Roseville Dentist, we are on a mission to create healthy teeth and gums. We educate our patients on how to properly care for their teeth to avoid cavities and gum disease. We are here to service you and your family. So again, enjoy Halloween and we look forward to seeing you for your next checkup.
Dr. Ruth Kenworthy, DDS
