Adults and Dental Health

At Camp Hill Dental, our aim is the prevention of oral diseases. It is important to have regular checkups and to maintain good oral hygiene practices, in order to avoid complex and costly treatments.

Gum Problems

Gums that bleed easily when tooth brushing or which appear red and puffy, are indicative of the presence of inflammation (or gingivitis) . Gum problems often occur without you knowing. Over long periods of time, untreated gum infections cause bone loss (also known as periodontitis). Eventually, bone loss around the teeth becomes so severe that teeth become incredibly loose and fall out.

Prevention is better than a cure! Gum disease is caused by bacteria (plaque) around the teeth and under the gums. Removing the plaque by thorough daily brushing and flossing is your best guarantee against gum disease.

Prevention of Dental Decay

Dental decay is characterized by the acid dissolution of the structures of the tooth, and is caused by a complex interaction between the bacteria and fermentable carbohydrates (sugars) present in your mouth. Dental decay is caused by a high consumption of sugar (more than four servings per day), poor oral hygiene and inadequate saliva production. Tooth decay is a preventable condition that can occur at any stage of life, so do not become complacent about your oral health.

Teeth Cleaning

• Clean your teeth at least twice a day after meals.
• Use fluoride toothpaste to prevent decay.
• Floss once per day.
• Replace your tooth brush every season (at least every three months).

Brushing

- Brush twice a day for at least 2 minutes. If using a manual toothbrush, use an extra-soft to soft bristle head, as this will prevent damage to the gums. An electric toothbrush can be a simple method of brushing. Electric toothbrushes are great for those with limited hand movements, due to arthritis and so forth.

- Don't be embarrassed to have your dentist show you how to brush.

Flossing

• Floss only the teeth that you want to keep!
• Ask your dentist to show you how to floss - the painless way - so you remove plaque and help prevent decay.

Periodontal Disease and Your Heart

New research suggests that periodontal disease appears to be linked with an increased risk of cardiovascular (heart) disease. The reasoning for the association between these two conditions is not yet understood.

Healthy gums are one of the primary concerns for the dentists at Camp Hill Dental. Encompassing a holistic approach, the dental team knows that you are the most important part in the dentist-patient team. The dentist has a responsibility to educate their patients on various techniques that will improve their oral health; however, it is the responsibility of the client to put into play these techniques and to actively endeavor to maintain excellent gum and overall oral health.

Adult Orthodontics

Studies show that approximately 65%-75% of adults have some form of malocclusion (discrepancy between opposing jaws or between the jaws and teeth). Orthodontic treatment is possible at any age . Ask y our dentist for advice.