5 . What causes
tooth decay?
Tooth decay is caused by plaque in your mouth reacting with sugary and
starchy deposits from food. This reaction produces acid which damages the
enamel over time and weakens the tooth.
6 . What can be
done for ulcers or canker sores in the mouth?
Ulcers are very difficult to treat. There is no proven technique that will
eliminate ulcers or speed the recovery time once they appear. There are a
few medications that will give temporary relief from the pain, but they need
to be started as soon as symptoms appear. Ulcers will generally diminish and
disappear in 7-10 days.
7 . How can I
stop grinding my teeth at night?
Grinding your teeth can be very damaging to the teeth and also difficult to
stop. If vigorous grinding occurs at night, teeth can be worn down to the
gumline because the instinctive reflex to stop does not work while you are
sleeping. Grinding due to stress can only be cured by removing the stress
trigger. If grinding continues, a nightguard may be prescribed to prevent
ultimate damage to the teeth.
8 . Are there
any alternatives to dentures?
Dentures are no longer the only way to restore a mouth that has little or no
non-restorable teeth. Strategically placed support, or implants, can now be
used to support permanently cemented bridges, eliminating the need for a
denture. The cost tends to be greater, but the implants and bridges more
closely resemble the "feel" of real teeth. Dental implants are becoming the
alternative of choice to dentures, but not everyone is a candidate for
implants. Call your dentist for advice.
