Robert D. Follweiler D.D.S.
Periodontology
901 East Ocean Boulevard Stuart, Florida 34994
772-283-1400
772-283-1401
FAX
Cavities…
When children are growing up a certain amount of
dental decay is a fairly regular occurrence.
As we become adults and have better oral hygiene cavities should become
less of a problem. Believe it or not
there is a period of time when there is a reoccurrence of the “cavity prone
years”. According to the American Dental
Association “ Dental decay is the most prevalent
decease affecting humanity. Teeth decay
due to a combination of causes that include bad oral hygiene, stagnation of
food on or around the teeth, presence of plaque on the tooth structure and the
presence of caries causing microorganisms.” A large percent of dental caries in
adults start on root surfaces and at the gum line.
Two primary causes of
adult dental decay in people who perform basic oral hygiene techniques at home
are the presence of gum recession and changes in a person’s saliva. Gum
recession may occur because of periodontal disease, improper brushing or
bruxism (excessive tooth grinding and clenching).
Any alterations in the
quantity and quality of one’s saliva will reduce the benefits saliva provides.
Reduction in saliva or dry mouth syndrome (xerostomia) may be caused by the
aging process, medications or illness. To prevent cavities in the presence of
reduced saliva one should: chew sugarless gum, take extra care with oral
hygiene before bed when saliva flow is the lowest, drink plenty of fluids on a
frequent basis and check with your physician regarding the possible side
effects of your medications.
Two primary causes of
adult dental decay in people who perform basic oral hygiene techniques at home
are the presence of gum recession and changes in a person’s saliva. Gum
recession may occur because of periodontal disease, improper brushing or
bruxism (excessive tooth grinding and clenching).
When gum tissues recede
plaque collects along the root surfaces. These root surfaces are made of
dentin, a material much softer than enamel. This erosion of the root surface is
where the decay occurs. In any location
of the mouth where gum recession has occurred a tooth’s root will be exposed.
It is difficult to keep these areas clean and plaque free without special
instructions and equipment from your periodontist or dentist.
Changes in saliva may
also contribute to dental decay in adults. Saliva contains a buffering agent
that can neutralize the acid created by the bacteria that cause tooth demineralization (tooth decay).
Saliva also contains antibacterial agents that can inhibit the proliferation of
oral bacteria.
Any alterations in the
quantity and quality of one’s saliva will reduce the benefits saliva provides.
Reduction in saliva or dry mouth syndrome (xerostomia) may be caused by the
aging process, medications or illness. To prevent cavities in the presence of
reduced saliva one should: chew sugarless gum, take extra care with oral
hygiene before bed when saliva flow is the lowest, drink plenty of fluids on a
frequent basis and check with your physician regarding the possible side
effects of your medications.
Tooth decay affects young and old alike. To keep your
teeth cavity free see your dental professional on a regular basis and be
prepared to take extra measures as you mature.
Cavities are not just kids stuff.
For more information
please call our office or visit our web site.
