Keep Your Teeth for a Lifetime
By Steven A. Fishman, DDS, FADL, FICD
Your teeth are crucial. Without them, you couldn’t chew food, speak properly, or maintain overall health. There are many benefits to preserving your teeth for a lifetime. Understanding how to keep your teeth healthy is key. The masticatory system, which involves chewing, is among the most researched and understood bodily systems. It includes the teeth, periodontal tissue (gums and surrounding bone), the muscles that move the jaw, and the temporomandibular joint (TMJ).
Visible Indicators of Oral Health
Two of these components, the teeth and gums, are visible to the naked eye, making it easier to identify conditions requiring attention. Regular direct observation helps maintain oral health and monitor changes. Unlike other body systems, such as the heart or circulatory system, which require indirect observation methods like electrocardiograms and blood tests, oral health can often be monitored visually. However, relying solely on indirect methods can delay the identification of conditions until serious damage has occurred.
Comprehensive Monitoring
Direct observations, along with indirect tools like x-rays, enable dentists to monitor three critical factors determining your teeth’s longevity: decay, periodontal (gum) disease, and functional problems.
- Decay: Caused by bacterial infections invading below the enamel.
- Periodontal Disease: Bacterial infection below the gum surface.
- Functional Problems: Not related to bacterial infections but can cause pain in the masticatory muscles and TMJ.
Early identification and treatment of these factors can prevent tooth loss. Proactive Dental Care The saying, “the absence of pain is not synonymous with health” applies to dental care. Many health problems can exist without causing pain. Regular evaluations by a knowledgeable dentist can identify and treat dental issues early, ensuring oral health throughout your lifetime. To learn more about maintaining your oral health, visit https://LoveSmile.com
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