Common myths about Tooth Decay

Some of the dental myths about tooth Dacay:
• 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.
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Dentists Mechanicsburg PA