Chesapeake, VA Cosmetic Dentist, Family and Preventive Dentists

Prevention

Tooth Decay Prevention

Tooth decay is a progressive disease resulting in the interaction of bacteria that naturally occur on the teeth and sugars in the everyday diet. Sugar causes a reaction in the bacteria, causing it to produce acids that break down the mineral in teeth, forming a cavity. Dentists remove the decay and fill the tooth using a variety of fillings, restoring the tooth to a healthy state. Nerve damage can result from severe decay and may require a crown (a crown is like a large filling that can cap a tooth, making it stronger or covering it). Avoiding unnecessary decay simply requires strict adherence to a dental hygiene regimen: brushing and flossing twice a day, regular dental checkups, diet control and fluoride treatment. Practicing good hygiene avoids unhealthy teeth and costly treatment.

Sealants

The grooves and depressions that form the chewing surfaces of the back teeth are extremely difficult (if not impossible) to clean of bacteria and food. As the bacteria reacts with the food, acids form and break down the tooth enamel, causing cavities. Recent studies indicate that 88 percent of total cavities in American school children are caused this way.

Tooth sealants protect these susceptible areas by sealing the grooves and depressions, preventing bacteria and food particles from residing in these areas. Sealant material is a resin typically applied to the back teeth, molars and premolars and areas prone to cavities. It lasts for several years but needs to be checked during regular appointments.

Fluoride

Fluoride is a substance that helps teeth become stronger and resistant to decay. Regularly drinking water treated with fluoride and brushing and flossing regularly ensures significantly lower cavities. Dentists can evaluate the level of fluoride in a primary drinking water source and recommend fluoride supplements (usually in tablets or drops), if necessary.

Thumb Sucking

Sucking is a natural reflex that relaxes and comforts babies and toddlers. Children usually cease thumb sucking when the permanent front teeth are ready to erupt. Typically, children stop between the ages of 2 and 4 years. Thumb sucking that persists beyond the eruption of primary teeth can cause improper growth of the mouth and misalignment of the teeth. If you notice prolonged and/or vigorous thumb sucking behavior in your child, talk to your dentist.

Here are some ways to help your child outgrow thumb sucking:

  • Don’t scold a child when they exhibit thumb sucking behavior; instead, praise them when they don’t thumb suck.
  • Focus on eliminating the cause of anxiety—thumb sucking is a comfort device that helps children cope with stress or discomfort.
  • Praise them when they refrain from the habit during difficult periods.
  • Place a bandage on the thumb or a sock on their hand at night.
Bruxism

Bruxism, the habit of grinding, gnashing or clenching your teeth, is a condition that affects children and adults. Some people unconsciously clench their teeth during the day, while most kids and some adults, grind or gnash their teeth while sleeping.

Symptoms of bruxism include worn, flattened or chipped teeth, increased tooth sensitivity, or broken dental restorations. Severe grinding can cause tooth fractures.

Causes of bruxism include the misalignment of teeth or psychological factors such as stress, anxiety or suppressed anger. Caffeine, tobacco, and severe stress, increases the risk of bruxism.

During regular dental exams, we can check for the physical signs of bruxism. If you are experiencing worn teeth or pain in your jaw, call us. If you notice that your child is grinding his/her teeth or is displaying any of the symptoms, please inform us at their next appointment.

In most cases, no treatment is necessary, however if the problem becomes severe, we can fit you with a mouth guard or splint to prevent further damage to your teeth. If stress is to blame, you need to find a way to relax.

Children usually grow out of the condition by age 10. In adults, bruxism is common between the late teen years and the 40s, and usually decreases with age.