Tips To Help Avoid The Dentist
by Virginia P. Humphrey II DDS

As we age, tiny cracks form in our teeth from habits such as clenching, grinding, chewing hard candy or ice, or using teeth as a tool to hold or open things. Fractures move through a tooth like a crack in a windshield, with no way to repair itself. The angle and depth of the fracture determine what type of treatment can be used to save the tooth if possible. Teeth sensitive to cold and biting are signs that a crack may be present. Basically there are three types of tooth fractures: A small fracture in the crown of the tooth which often can be held together with a bonded filling, or a crown. This type is usually not very sensitive, and is most often noticed by the dentist when a filling is replaced. The second type, a complete break where a piece is missing, is only sensitive until the break occurs. Because of this, the tooth is often left broken with bacteria entering the unprotected area harming the nerve. Without much delay, the tooth can be repaired with a crown, but sometimes needs root canal therapy as well. The most severe type of fracture is a vertical tooth split; the tooth is cracked down the root, often loose and infected. In this case the tooth is very painful, and extraction is the only treatment option. All types of fractures can lead to tooth loss and infection if not treated right away. Although some problems come from posts after root canal therapy, or large silver fillings, others may be prevented. Night guards are helpful to protect teeth from clenching and grinding. Avoid diets containing hard objects such as candy, ice, corn nuts, and unpopped popcorn kernals. When playing contact sports, always wear a mouth piece. Never use teeth as tools to hold or tear things. If you experience symptoms of a fractured or cracked tooth, see your dentist immediately. If detected and treated early, a cracked/fractured tooth may be saved.

An apple a day may help keep some doctors away, but unfortunately not the dentist. However Dentistry is one field of medicine whereby prevention can eliminate needless costs, and discomfort associated with dental disease and treatment.

Although tooth decay is more commonly caused by poor diet, and hygiene, less is known about the adverse effects of stomach acid in otherwise healthy people and in those with an acid reflux disease(GERD). GERD has been mainly known for causing heartburn, lung, and esophageal problems until recently when studies such as those by the Medical College of Wisconsin now suggest gastric acid reflux and regurgitation can result in eroded carious teeth and gums disease, as well as sinus infections.

Since most damage by the stomach acid appears to occur at night when less gravity, swallowing, and protective neutralizing salivary secretions are available, many suffers go without symptoms. Upon a dental exam the location and pattern of decay and erosion along with bad breath can suggest GERD, which will help the physician in the diagnoses so that treatment can be initiated. Without medical attention, excessive stomach acid may continue to cause erosions of the teeth, possibly leading to unnecessary tooth loss, as well as adversely effecting one's overall health.

Good hygiene using a baking soda toothpaste, restricting sugar in the diet, drinking more water, and using a strong fluoride application daily after brushing are helpful while undergoing medical therapy for GERD. Recent theories suggest in many cases GERD is related to sleep apnea which causes grinding of the teeth, referred to as Tribolgy. Work with a dentist and physician to keep your body healthy.