The health of one’s mouth, teeth and gums is vital to overall body wellness. Dentists are medical professionals who provide expert oral care.
This dentist North Shore collaborates with dental assistants, hygienists and lab technicians to prevent oral disease and provide treatment when it does occur.
Oral Diseases
Oral diseases are a global public health crisis that causes pain, discomfort, functional limitations and reduced quality of life for millions worldwide. Furthermore, they impact people’s social lives, eating habits and self-esteem.
Dentists can diagnose these problems by taking X-rays, using dental tools to inspect teeth and asking about pain and sensitivity. Then, if necessary, they may prescribe antibiotics for an infection or suggest other treatments.
The most widespread oral disease is tooth decay, commonly called dental caries. This condition develops when a sticky, colourless-to-yellow film of bacteria called plaque forms on teeth. Sugars from food turn into acids which damage and destroy enamel – the hard outer covering of teeth.
Gum disease, also known as periodontitis, is a more severe form of gum disease that causes the gums to pull away from teeth and create pockets where pus may collect. Not addressed early could lead to tooth loss and other severe consequences.
Furthermore, those who neglect preventative dental care are at an increased risk for other systemic illnesses like heart disease and diabetes. In addition, gum disease causes inflammation and chronic plaque build-up, which increases these risks, so it’s essential to take good care of your teeth by brushing regularly.
The oral cavity indicates overall health, with systemic conditions often first visible in the mouth due to lesions or other dental issues. Oral problems can sometimes lead to other health issues like anemia and weakened immune function. You must discuss oral health with your primary care team at every visit.
Teeth Cleanings
Dental cleanings are essential to prevent dental problems. However, brushing alone won’t eliminate bacteria, plaque or stains that need removal. Plus, they check for signs of gum disease, oral cancer and other issues that could go undetected if you don’t keep up with regular appointments.
Your dentist North Shore and dental hygienist will use special tools to scrape away hardened plaque, tartar and stains that accumulate on your teeth over time. After that, they’ll polish them smoothly, so it’s harder for bacteria to attach themselves.
Many times, dental cleanings don’t cause any pain at all. However, those who are sensitive to touch may experience discomfort. Take over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen, ibuprofen or naproxen to alleviate this.
Some people may experience tooth sensitivity or tenderness during their dental cleanings. These are Takee effects and should subside after a few days.
A dental hygienist uses a d to alleviate this mental air/water syringe to rinse debris from your teeth. She may also apply fluoride. First, however, to strengthen and protect them from further damage.
Once the hygienist has finished her work, she will inspect your teeth and jaw for any signs of dental trouble. If necessary, she can also take X-rays.
Most people find teeth cleanings to be a relaxing experience without needing medications. However, if you have gum disease or other complications, you may experience more pain than usual during your appointment. To reduce this discomfort, ask your dentist if they have any topical numbing agents available to ease discomfort during the procedure.
Preventive Care
Preventive care is essential to help patients avoid dental issues like tooth decay and gum disease. It involves teaching and practising proper oral hygiene techniques at home and visiting your dentist regularly for check-ups and professional cleanings.
Preventive dentistry can help you and your family maintain excellent oral health for life and reduce the need for costly restorative or cosmetic treatments in the future.
Maintaining a healthy smile is essential for a happy and healthy life, so make preventive dentistry part of your routine. Not only will it save you money in the long run, but it will also keep your teeth looking their best.
Everyone benefits from preventive care, from infants to teens and adults. It helps ensure baby teeth grow strong and healthy and gives teens and adults their permanent natural teeth for life.
Most dental insurance plans emphasize preventive services. For example, visits are usually covered at 100% with minimal or no deductibles and co-pays required.
Fortunately, there are ways to overcome these barriers and promote preventive services. These measures involve determining what is most essential for the healthcare system, holding physicians accountable for specific strategies, and using metrics to measure performance.