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What Causes Tooth Decay and How Is It Treated?

September 27, 2013

In our last post, we talked about the powerful effect stomach acid can have on teeth. Most cases of decay aren’t caused by stomach acid, though. Instead, when most patients experience tooth decay, it’s the result of bacteria and plaque. Bacteria reacts to many foods—especially foods high in sugar—by producing acid, which leads to more bacteria and more acid, resulting in an environment harmful to teeth.

What’s more, the buildup of bacteria, plaque, and acid also contributes to gum disease. As one of the most common oral health conditions a patient can face, gum disease can have a dramatic effect on one’s oral health (it’s the most common cause of tooth loss in adults)

Thankfully, Dr. John R. Robison and Dr. J.D. Robison offer care for both tooth decay and gum disease. With services like composite fillings and porcelain crowns, plus periodontal therapy, our Canton dental team can provide effective care against both.

We also recommend coming to Robison Dental Group twice a year for checkups and cleanings. Though we offer these great general and restorative services, regular checkups and cleanings are designed to prevent the most common oral health conditions from forming in the first place.

During your visit we can also offer home care tips that will help you protect your smile in between visits to our Canton dental office. We recommend brushing at least twice a day and flossing at least once. You may also benefit from an antibacterial or fluoride mouthwash.

Has it been more than six months since your last checkup? Call Robison Dental Group for an appointment. We serve patients from Canton, Ann Arbor, Northville, Westland, Plymouth, and beyond.

Acid Reflux and Your Oral Health

September 13, 2013

At some point, everyone experiences a touch of heartburn. For some, though, it’s not uncommon to have heartburn two, three, or more times a week. Cases like this are a good indication of acid reflux disease. Other common symptoms of an acid reflux condition include:

  • Bloating or burping
  • Regurgitation
  • Hiccups
  • Nausea
  • Narrowing of the esophagus
  • Weight loss
  • Bloody/black stools or bloody vomiting
  • Sore throat, hoarseness, wheezing, or dry cough

These uncomfortable or unpleasant symptoms can all have an impact on your overall wellbeing, but did you know your oral health can also be affected?

A patient who experiences acid reflux several times a week is at risk of decay and possibly worse. That’s because when acid from the stomach comes into contact with the teeth, it has a damaging effect on their protective layer of enamel. Then, as the sensitive layer of dentin underneath is exposed, this becomes a bigger and bigger problem.

Symptoms of teeth damaged by acid include:

  • Sensitivity, in particular to foods that are cold, hot, or sweet
  • Teeth that have thinned or become shorter
  • Pain or irritation
  • Teeth with sharp edges

Have you experienced any of these symptoms? Call Robison Dental Group for help. We offer effective general, cosmetic, and restorative services for patients from Canton, Ann Arbor, Northville, Westland, Plymouth, and beyond.