• About Oral Hygiene
• Dental Care at Home
• Information for Seniors
• Common Dental Questions
• Common Denture Questions
• Dental Glossary
• Latest News About Dental Health

Following are answers to some questions you may have regarding dentures. The information will help you through any minor inconveniences you may have with your new dentures. Use this page as a handy reference for ongoing care.

• Question: What causes tooth decay?
• Question: How are problems in my mouth linked to problems in the rest of my body?
• Question: What are the most common oral health problems?
• Question: What is dry mouth and what can I do about it?
• Question: How often should I get a dental check up?
• Question: How often should I change my toothbrush?
• Question: What are some of the symptoms of oral cancer?

Common Dental Questions

Question: What causes tooth decay?

Decay is caused by bacteria that collect on teeth and feed on the carbohydrates in our diet. The bacteria produce an acid that wears away at the enamel on our teeth. If decay is left untreated, it can cause pain, infection and even loss of the tooth.

To protect against tooth decay, brush and floss your teeth at least twice a day or after meals, visit your dentist for cleanings and checkups, and avoid sugary foods and snacks.

| Back to the Top |

Question:  How are problems in my mouth linked to problems in the rest of my body?

Research has found that the health of your mouth can be a sign of your body’s overall health. Diseases such as diabetes, osteoporosis, HIV, cardiovascular disease and eating disorders can cause, and are related to, oral-health problems.

Diabetes increases your risk of gum disease, cavities, tooth loss, dry mouth and oral infections. Also, poor oral health can make diabetes more difficult to control.

Often, the first signs of osteoporosis show up in your teeth. Your dentist may be able to spot bone loss and weakening through regular dental exams.

Oral problems are very common if you have HIV/AIDS. Symptoms include ulcers, dry mouth and related painful mucosal lesions. In some cases, one of the first signs of HIV/AIDS may be severe gum infection.

Some studies show that certain types of cardiovascular disease are linked to oral health. These include heart disease, clogged arteries and stroke.

Be sure to practice good oral health and hygiene as it affects more than just your mouth – it impacts your entire body.

| Back to the Top |

Question:  What are the most common oral health problems?

Dental cavities and gum disease are the most common oral health problems.

Cavities are caused by bacteria that produce an acid and attack the enamel on our teeth – eventually leading to decay and wear. You can prevent cavities by brushing and flossing regularly and avoiding sugary foods and snacks.

Gum disease (gingivitis) is an inflammation and infection of the gums. About 75 percent of Americans have gum disease and don’t even know it. It’s a progressive disease and failure to treat it can result in acute illness and loss of teeth. Usually, gingivitis can be treated with daily brushing and flossing and regular cleanings at the dentist’s office. This form of gum disease does not lead to loss of bone or tissue around the teeth. If it is not treated, it can advance to periodontitis, an infection in the gum and bones.

| Back to the Top |

Question:  What is dry mouth and what can I do about it?

Dry mouth is the reduced flow of saliva. Saliva is needed to help our mouth wash away food debris and control bacteria in the mouth. When you aren’t producing enough saliva, your mouth can get dry and uncomfortable.

There are many reasons why you may develop dry mouth. Certain medications, including drugs used to treat depression, anxiety, pain, allergies and colds, can have a common side effect of dry mouth. Some diseases, such as AIDS, anemia and diabetes can cause dry mouth. Also, smoking or chewing tobacco can aggravate dry mouth conditions.

Symptoms of dry mouth include difficulty speaking, hoarseness, persistent sore throat, problems swallowing, a burning sensation in your mouth and dry nasal passages.

| Back to the Top |

Question:  How often should I get a dental check up?

Most people should visit their dentist for a regular cleaning and check up every six months. However, if you have special conditions that put you at greater risk for oral diseases you may need to see your dentist more than twice a year. Talk to your doctor about how often is best for you..

| Back to the Top |

Question: How often should I change my toothbrush?

You should change your toothbrush every three months or sooner if the bristles become worn and frayed. If you have been sick with a cold or other bacterial infection, you should replace your toothbrush immediately after you get better.

| Back to the Top |

Question:  What are some of the symptoms of oral cancer?

More than 34,000 Americans are diagnosed with oral cancer each year. It often starts as a tiny, unnoticed white or red spot or sore in the mouth and can affect any area of the oral cavity including the lips, gum tissue, cheek lining, tongue and palate.

Some symptoms of oral cancer include a sore that bleeds easily or does not heal; a color change of the oral tissues; a lump, thickening, rough spot or small eroded area; pain, tenderness or numbness anywhere in the mouth or lips; difficulty chewing, swallowing, speaking or moving the jaw or tongue; and a change in the way your teeth fit together.

Early detection is essential in effectively treating oral cancer. Regular dental check ups include an oral cancer screening, so it is important that you visit your dentist at least twice a year. If left untreated, oral cancer can lead to permanent damage and death. Aspen Dental offers advanced, state-of-the-art Vizilite oral cancer screening that can detect the disease at its earliest stages.

| Back to the Top |