Habits and genes both play a part
Some dental problems come from daily habits, such as how often you brush, floss and see the dentist. Others have a genetic side. Gum disease, cavities, enamel erosion, oral cancer, cleft lip or palate and crooked teeth can all run in families to some degree. In most cases it is a mix of genes and environment.
Good habits help either way. Care starts in infancy, when a baby's gums can be wiped or brushed several times a day. For adults, a solid routine is brushing twice daily, flossing once a day and keeping up with checkups and cleanings.
Cavities and sensitive teeth
A cavity starts when decay breaks through the enamel. Left alone, it can spread to the soft tissue or the jawbone and turn into an abscess, which can become a serious infection. People with chronic health conditions are more prone to cavities, so we decide together how often you need exams and X-rays.
Cracked and broken teeth
Car accidents and sports injuries can crack or break a tooth. A broken tooth is open to infection and may eventually be lost. Losing a tooth can lead to bone loss in the jaw and a shifting bite, so it is worth getting it repaired promptly.
Oral cancer
Tobacco, nicotine and HPV infection raise the risk of oral cancer. At each visit we review your risk factors, and we can screen you in the office. Many oral cancers can be cured when found early. Learn more about oral cancer screening.
Gum disease
Gum disease is common, and many people do not realize how advanced theirs is. Untreated, it can cause receding gums and tooth loss. It also spreads inflammation through the body, and research has linked it with heart disease and with a higher lifetime risk of dementia. Pregnancy, diabetes and cancer all raise the risk of gum disease, so those patients may need extra care. See our gum disease treatment.
Health conditions that can affect your mouth
You may need extra attention if you have any of these:
- An autoimmune disease
- Cancer
- Diabetes
- Heart disease
- HIV/AIDS
- HPV
- Sinusitis
- Sleep apnea
Heart disease deserves a mention. Bacteria from gum infections can reach the bloodstream, which matters most for people with artificial heart valves. Gum disease is associated with a higher risk of heart conditions, including endocarditis, an infection of the heart's inner lining.
Why the mouth microbiome matters
The mix of bacteria in your mouth normally stays in balance. When it is disturbed, harmful bacteria can spread beyond the mouth. People with weakened immune systems are especially vulnerable, which is one reason we look at your whole health history.
Smoking and drinking
Tobacco reduces saliva, lets bacteria stick to teeth and gums, and brings chemicals into the body. Heavy drinking, poor nutrition and skipped hygiene also take a toll. Cutting back helps, and so do dental visits at least once or twice a year.
Tooth pain or receding gums are early warning signs. Call us at (781) 289-3331 as soon as you notice a change.
Common questions
What are the health risks of poor oral hygiene?
It raises the risk of abscesses, gum disease and tooth loss. Research has also linked untreated oral problems with bone loss, heart disease, pneumonia, dementia and pregnancy complications.
How can I protect my oral health?
Brush twice a day, floss once a day, rinse with plain water and limit sugary, sticky foods that feed decay-causing bacteria.
Why are exams and cleanings important?
Exams show us where your mouth stands and what you need. Cleanings every six months remove plaque and tartar before decay sets in, and they let us catch problems early.
How does smoking affect the mouth?
It dries the mouth, helps bacteria cling to teeth and gums, and raises the risk of plaque, infection and oral cancer.
What is a healthy mouth baseline?
It is how your mouth looks when it is in ideal health. At your first consultation we compare it with your own mouth and build a plan around the difference.