One simple fact of our oral health is that bacteria from the outside world are always going to try to find a way to take hold within our mouths. Honestly, they can’t be blamed for this, as this is a perfect area for their growth, when left unimpeded. Our smiles have plenty of warm and wet places to develop colonies, and we return to feed them multiple times daily.
Unfortunately, these forms of bacteria create highly acidic waste as a byproduct. This waste can eat through our enamel over time, exposing the vulnerable inner workings beneath. When the infection reaches deep into the interior of the structure, it can lead to immense pain. Tooth decay is not the only way that this can happen, either. Our periodontal tissue, also known as our gums, creates a valuable seal that protects the systems that connect our teeth to our jaw. Today, your Newport Beach, CA dentist explains that the best time to stop your troubling oral infection is now!
Do Your Part
Within dentistry, the most effective form of care usually comes through preventive medicine. With tooth decay, this means sticking to a strict oral hygiene regimen at home. Twice-daily brushing and daily flossing are imperative in keeping your smile strong throughout your life. This should be your absolute minimum amount of effort, and do not ignore your flossing! It can save you time and money in the long term.
Enamel is difficult to repair on our own. There are numerous over-the-counter options and the addition of fluoride to tap water and oral health products has led to major advancements in keeping our natural teeth as healthy as possible. But when cavities set in, there is no substitute for a composite filling to protect your smile.
Beyond Your Teeth
If your infection has progressed beyond this stage, you may have begun to develop pain at a centralized location. This most likely requires a root canal surgery, where the interior flesh of your tooth is removed. A special paste known as gutta-percha is used to seal the connections to your jaw. This is amazingly helpful in stopping an infection, but requires the removal of some tooth matter, so optimally, we would like to catch it before it reaches this.
Your gum tissue is also prone to infection. In fact, around 42% of Americans over the age of 30 struggle with this condition daily. So while it is certainly common, peridontal disease carries a massive stigma that can lead to people changing their manner of speech or their smile. This can lead to serious complications, so if you notice recession, call use today!
Don’t Let It Get Worse!
If you are struggling with bacterial infection within your mouth, time is of the essence. Please give Dr. Hofkes at Balboa Dental Surgery a call at (949)630-0143. Or stop by our office here in Newport Beach, CA!
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