A faculty member at Tufts University School of Dental Medicine recently wrote an article outlining common dental myths – here are a few dental myths debunked:

• Losing baby teeth to tooth decay is OK. Myth – Some people believe this since baby teeth fall out anyway but decay in baby teeth can damage the developing adult teeth under the gums.  If baby teeth are lost too early the permanent teeth may not be positioned correctly and need orthodontics later on.
• Tooth decay only affects children and young people. Not true!  In adults and seniors common drugs such as sedatives, antihistamines,  diuretics (used to treat high blood pressure), and antidepressants can cause saliva production to slow down.   Since saliva bathes and cleans the teeth this means that oral problems will increase.  Our gums naturally recede with age and these receding gums can result in decay along the roots of the teeth.
• Osteoporosis only affects the hips and spine. People don’t think about it but teeth are held in place by the bone of your jaw.  Lose the jaw bone and you lose your teeth.  Of course, if you lose your teeth (due to gum disease or decay) you will also begin to lose jaw bone even if you don’t suffer from osteoporosis.  A good diet that includes calcium and vitamins D and K can help protect you.

Tooth decay is not something that can be ignored whether you are a toddler, teenager or an adult of any age.  Dental cavities that are not treated will eventually cause pain – usually at the most inconvenient times (holidays, weekends or just before you leave on vacation).

Screening for cavities at Stone Ridge Dental care includes using digital radiography and an instrument called Diagnodent to screen for cavities in hard to see areas. If cavities are discovered they will be treated using modern dental materials – not old fashioned mercury based amalgams.  The tooth colored dental resins match the color of your teeth and provide a safe, attractive restoration  for your cavity.  In the Columbus, Ohio area please contact us today at 614-476-6696 to schedule your consultation.