Understanding the dangers of oral disease
Gum disease and tooth decay are among the biggest health hazards facing the country today, with these ailments affecting around 42% of the population. Yet most of us are too casual when it comes to taking care of our teeth. We postpone appointments and convey to our dentists that we’d like to be done yesterday with their annoying probes and devices.
But dental-care-as-usual won’t cut it in terms of checking the periodontal disease that has a causal link to heart disease. Aggressive bacteria in the mouth has even been associated with dementia and Alzheimer’s in the brain. We must find a way to thwart diseases caused by dental deterioration before oral pathogens become major threats to our well-being and quality of life.
The problem with status quo dental care
While conventional deep cleanings are traditionally suggested to keep oral health at optimum levels, some key problems with this approach may arise. There is calculus (tartar) that is left underneath the gum line that we may not be able to see, as well as microscopic calculus (“sparkle”) that may be undermining our health without detection. Biofilm, a collection of dangerous microbes and dental plaque, can remain attached to the tooth root, accumulating destructive germs. Blind scaling during deep cleanings may also reduce the viability of a healthy tooth structure.
The future of dental care
For these reasons, it’s important that your dentist use some unique and innovative tools to safeguard your health. They can perform salivary diagnostics, administer pH tests, investigate using a periscope, or a phase-contrast microscope, all with the goal of seeing potential pathogens up close and banishing them. Another option is to use subgingival air-polishing with glycine or erythritol to help remove a buildup of bacteria. Both glycine and erythritol are safe enough to be used on implants and restorations as well as the tooth roots.
What is the takeaway?
Oral care is of the utmost importance in terms of preventing debilitating illness in the future and protecting your health in the present. The stakes are higher than you might think. It’s important to choose a dentist who is abreast of the most advanced diagnostic tools and technology on the market, and who is willing to commit the time necessary for thoroughly examining your mouth and detecting potential threats before they become liabilities. Training and experience in a dentist are important, but that needs to be coupled with meticulous attention to detail and a near-obsession with vanquishing germs. Schedule a consultation today!
