Community Update

When your teeth and gums are healthy, chances are your overall health is good, too. However, your oral health may be affected by seemingly unrelated conditions. If you suffer from diabetes, osteoporosis, or acid reflux, you may need to schedule appointments with your family dentist more often than others and take extra precautions to maintain your dental health.
Diabetes
People with diabetes are more likely to develop serious gum disease than those without diabetes. Diabetics have a lower white blood cell count, making them more susceptible to the bacteria that cause gingivitis. If you suffer from diabetes, protect your gums by using fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush, floss at least once per day and ask your dentist to recommend an antibacterial mouthwash. In some cases, insurance companies will actually increase the frequency of your cleaning visits benefits if you are a diabetic, because it can be so compromising to your dental health. Visit your dentist right away if you experience any pain or inflammation.
Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is a condition that causes a loss of density in the bones, including the jawbone. According to the National Institutes of Health, tooth loss affects one third of the 10 million Americans over age 65 who suffer from osteoporosis. If you have osteoporosis, you can help keep your teeth healthy by eating a calcium-rich diet, maintaining your oral hygiene, avoiding tough foods, and visiting your dentist regularly to ensure that your jawbone remains strong.
Acid Reflux
Acid reflux occurs when stomach contents flow back up into the esophagus, causing a painful sensation in the chest and throat called heartburn. The refluxed substance is acidic and can erode tooth enamel, resulting in tooth decay and sensitivity to certain foods and temperatures. If you have acid reflux, your dentist may recommend that you use a softer toothbrush, fluoride treatments, and a mouthguard to protect your teeth while you sleep.
Medications and Chemo Therapy
Certain medications and/or chemo therapy can lead to increased problems in the mouth as well. Dryness or acidity changes in the mouth can be quickly problematic for oral health.
Diet
It’s amazing how eating certain things can ravage your mouth! Sugared drinks are notorious, but other foods can do surprising damage. For example starchy foods such as pretzels and white bread, can be sticky and cause trouble, too. If you want to keep your dentist busy, chewy, sticky candy is very bad, in fact, the material we use to assist in removing crowns from the mouth are very much like a sticky candy (without the yummy taste!).
Dr. Alina Bergan DDS, is dedicated to ensuring that your smile stays healthy. Whether you suffer from one of the above conditions or simply need a check-up, you can visit us in Cedarhurst for general, advanced, and cosmetic dentistry care. If you live in the 5 Towns area, contact us at (800) 223-0801 today to schedule an appointment.